James Ola Emiola-Dakobiri, the visionary Founder and Chairman of the Suicide Prevention and Depression Support Foundation, was born in the mid-1950s. He hails from a family deeply rooted in Christian values, with his father, Presiding Elder Joseph Emiola Dakobiri of the Christ Apostolic Church General Headquarters, and his mother, Deaconess Mary Ibinola Dakobiri, shaping his early years.

James began his educational journey at Christ Church Cathedral School, Broad Street, Lagos (1961-1968), and later attended The Apostolic Church Grammar School, Orishigun, Ketu, Lagos (1969-1973). His pursuit of knowledge has been a lifelong commitment, evident in his completion of various certificated courses, including those from the Institute of Information Management and the US Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights (USIDHR).

A Fellow of the Institute of Information Management, James is also a Human Rights Consultant and an Anti-Human Trafficking Advocate. His career began in 1973 with Barclays Bank, which later became Union Bank PLC. During his tenure, he earned four promotions and served as the Training Manager and Accountant at the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Center due to his exceptional skills and dedication.

In 1985, James transitioned into entrepreneurship, founding Menu Vouchers Nigeria Ltd in 1987. His innovative company introduced “Food” Vouchers as an alternative to cash, partnering with The Nigerian Security Printing and Minting Company to provide corporate organizations with a reliable solution for staff food allowances.

James has always been a committed community leader, serving as Chairman in the communities where he has lived. In 2009, he was called upon by the Area A Police Commander, Lion Building, to reorganize the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), which, under his leadership, became one of the most effective and well-organized PCRCs in the region.

Recognizing his leadership qualities, the House of Representatives’ APC candidate sought his expertise, recommending him for the position of Constituency Officer from 2011 to 2019.

Driven by a deep passion for mental health advocacy, James established the Suicide Prevention and Depression Support Foundation to address the growing need for mental wellness care. His foundation stands as a beacon of hope, offering crucial support to those in need of mental health resources and care.