User:Bemmax/sandbox

Ede Dafinone (born 10 April 1962) is a Nigerian chartered accountant, politician, and philanthropist, notable for his contributions in the field of finance, involvement in Nigerian politics, and charitable activities.

He is currently the senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District at the 10th National Assembly. Dafinone comes from the family of Senator David Omueya Dafinone, who holds the Guinness World Record for having the largest number of members in the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales (ICAEW). His father, David Omueya Dafinone was Senator for the old Bendel South in the second republic. Dafinone is a prominent figure in the Nigerian financial sector and has played an active role in shaping Nigeria's political landscape.

Educational background
Ede Dafinone received his education from various institutions, spanning both Nigeria and the United Kingdom. He began his academic journey at Corona School in Apapa, Lagos State, where he attended from 1968 to 1973, earning his first school leaving certificate. Following that, he pursued his secondary education at Kings College Lagos, from 1973 to 1978. Dafinone then ventured abroad to Rugby School in Warwickshire, United Kingdom, where he studied from 1978 to 1980.

Continuing his quest for knowledge, Dafinone enrolled at the Victoria University of Manchester in the United Kingdom, where he pursued his undergraduate studies from 1980 to 1983 and earned a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) degree in Economics. After completing his degree, he furthered his educational pursuits at the University of Exeter, also in the UK, bagging a Master of Arts in Economics in 1984.

Dafinone's dedication to continuous learning extended to the business realm as well. He attended the Lagos Business School in Lagos, Nigeria, enhancing his knowledge in the field of business and management.

He is a Fellow in both the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), which were conferred upon him in 2000. Additionally, he is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, a distinction he has held since 1991.

Work history
Ede Dafinone has a work history spanning multiple sectors. He began his professional journey at Touche Ross & Co Chartered Accountants in London, where he gained experience from 1984 to 1988. Following this, he joined Crowe Dafinone, Chartered Accountants in Lagos in 1989. Over the years, he progressed within the firm, becoming a Partner in 1997 and later assuming the role of Deputy Managing Partner from 2007 to the present.

In addition to his role as a chartered accountant, Dafinone has held significant directorship positions. Notably, he has served as a Director of Sapele Petroleum Limited, Ceddi Corporation Limited, and Sapele Integrated Industries Limited. Within these positions, he has contributed to the successful construction, management, and development of various projects, including a crumb rubber export manufacturing and rubber plantation company and Ceddi Plaza Abuja, a premier shopping mall.

Dafinone has also been involved in various consultancies. He has been involved in the reorganization of private companies, provided consultancy services to the Budget Office of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for local debt verification, and conducted a diagnostic review of universities on behalf of the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation.

His expertise in auditing extends across multiple sectors, including conglomerates (local and international), government parastatals, and the building manufacturing, transport, and haulage subsectors.

Furthermore, Dafinone has held various appointments in both the private and public sectors. Notable roles include serving as a Director of NEXIM Bank, Chairman of the Members of the Advisory Board for Africa ICAEW, Council Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of England and Wales (ICAEW) representing Africa, and Board member of the National Film and Video Censors Board. He has also served as the Chairperson of the Manufacturer's Association of Nigeria Export Promotion Group (MAN-EPG).

Dafinone's commitment to various causes is evident through his involvement as Chairman of the Nigerian Conservation Foundation and Council Member of the World Wide Fund for Nature. He also holds positions such as trustee of the Guild of Fine Artists of Nigeria, trustee, Network of Practicing Non-Oil Exporters of Nigeria, member, of the Federal Government Steering Committee on the Determination and Resolution of Cross Debts between public Enterprises, member of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, and former member of the National Broadcasting Commission.

Throughout his work history, Ede Dafinone has exhibited expertise, leadership, and a commitment to making significant contributions in the areas of finance, business, governance, and conservation.

Community work
Ede Dafinone has actively engaged in community appointments, showcasing his dedication to serving and empowering his community.

He serves as a Trustee of the Okpe Union, actively contributing to the welfare and development of the Okpe community.

Dafinone holds the esteemed position of Chairman of the Sapele Okpe Community Land Trust Association, overseeing land-related matters and ensuring responsible management of community resources. He has also served as the Vice-Chairman of the Urhobo Progress Union - Management Board, playing a significant role in advancing the Urhobo community and promoting its interests.

His contributions extend to the Okpe Community Leaders of Thought, where he serves as a Trustee, providing wisdom and guidance to the community.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Dafinone was honored with the traditional title of Ede of Okpe Kingdom.

Through his community appointments and the bestowed traditional title, Ede Dafinone demonstrates his unwavering commitment to community development and the preservation of cultural heritage. His active involvement and dedication to the Okpe Union, Sapele Okpe Community Land Trust Association, Urhobo Progress Union, and Okpe Community Leaders of Thought exemplify his continuous efforts toward the betterment of his community.

The Dafinone Foundation
Through the Dafinone Foundation, Ede Dafinone has made a significant impact in social and community outreach, focusing on education, economic empowerment, and skills development.

The foundation provides scholarships of all categories to Deltans, supporting individuals from primary school to postgraduate education. By offering financial assistance, the foundation enables deserving students to pursue their academic aspirations and unlock their potential.

In addition to education, the Dafinone Foundation extends support to women and youths in micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through the provision of micro-credit loans. These loans empower individuals to establish or expand their businesses, fostering entrepreneurship and economic growth within the community.

The foundation goes beyond financial assistance by operating a functional Skill Acquisition Centre. This center offers training and equips women and youths with vital livelihood skills such as tailoring, hairdressing, adult education, welding, computer education, and catering, among others. Since its inception in 2007, the center has benefitted over 5,000 individuals, equipping them with valuable skills that enhance their employability and income-generating potential.

Furthermore, the Dafinone Foundation contributes to job creation by employing over 700 individuals across Delta State through Sapele Integrated Industries Ltd. This company specializes in rubber and allied products exports, providing employment opportunities and contributing to the local economy. Through the Dafinone Foundation's multifaceted approach, Ede Dafinone demonstrates his commitment to addressing educational needs, promoting economic empowerment, and nurturing skills development within the community. The foundation's initiatives have positively impacted the lives of many, fostering social progress and creating opportunities for individuals to thrive.

Politics
Ede Dafinone has been actively involved in politics, playing a significant role in various political parties and elections.

In 1998, Dafinone, alongside his late father Chief Senator David Dafinone, became a founding member of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State.

In 2006, Ede Dafinone contested the Delta Central Senatorial PDP primaries, showcasing his willingness to actively participate in the democratic process and represent the interests of his constituency. He continued his political journey by participating in the Delta Central Senatorial bye-elections in 2013, this time as the Senatorial Candidate of the Democratic People's Party (DPP). This further highlighted his dedication to serving the people and making a difference within the political landscape.

Since 2014, Ede Dafinone has been a staunch member of the All Progressives Congress (APC). He was among the first group of individuals in Delta State to leave their former parties and join the APC.

Personal philosophy
Ede Dafinone's personal philosophy is rooted in inclusivity, development, and genuine relationships. He believes in a politics of development, where progress and improvement benefit society and mankind.

His approachable nature, joyful demeanor, and humble attitude make him a friend to many, regardless of social status. He values collaboration and maintains flourishing relationships with leaders across partisan lines.

Ede Dafinone's vision is centered around a better and greater Nigeria and Delta State, with a focus on practical and sustainable growth. His perspective on politics emphasizes building friendships rather than fostering enmities, highlighting the importance of unity and cooperation.

Through his personal philosophy, Ede Dafinone strives to bring smiles to people's faces and make a positive impact on their lives.