By: Chidiebere Akalawu.
The Vice Chancellor, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Prof Charles Okechukwu Esimone, FAS was decorated with an Alumna Lion of High Achievement Award at the just concluded National convention of University of Nigeria Alumni Association (UNAA).
The occasion which took place in Port Harcourt, Rivers State on Saturday, 20th April, 2024 was graced by eminent alumni who have distinguished themselves in public service and love for their alma mater. Some of which were given public service Awards and distinguished alumni Awards.
The keynote speaker Prof Onwunari Georgewill the Vice chancellor, University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State in his speech called for Nigerian Universities to empower graduates with entrepreneurship skills which will serve as a catalyst in the country’s educational system.
Also in his part, Prof Charles Esimone while receiving the Award, expressed gratitude to the National Body of UNAA for finding him worthy of the award and promised not to relent in making the University proud.
Similarly, his counterpart at Micheal Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike, Prof Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe; Chairman BoT UNAA and Justice of the Appeal Court, Justice Biobele Georgewill; Senior Lecturer Federal University of Technology Owerri, Prof Ngozi A. Okereke and Bishop Eric Chuka Agwuegbo were all given Alumna Lion of High Achievement (ALOHA) Awards.
The event had in attendance 10 delegates from 26 branches of the Association across the Federation, Life Patrons and Senior ALOHAs, Former Deputy Governor of Rivers State and Pioneer graduate of UNN Alabo Dr Gabriel Toby and Chief Dr Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu – National President, Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, were all in attendance.
Prof Nkechi Nwokoye NAU Council member and Vice President UNAA Awka branch who was present at the event, congratulated Prof Esimone on behalf of the branch. She described the award as well deserving and encouraged him to continue to blaze the trail.
Lending his voice, the Awka branch president and Sub Dean Students’ Affairs, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka Dr Chinedu Mbalisi thanked Prof Esimone for making the branch proud while praying for God’s continual blessings upon all the award recipients.
Highlights of the occasion includes exchange of intellectual ideas, award presentation, cultural dance by some musical troup, among many others.