As the cliché goes, “a gold fish has no hiding place”, and so it was as a man of dignity, self-respect & distinction, an administrator per excellence, Professor Eleazar Uche Ikonne was honoured by OSO NSU, for his hard work and pragmatism.
The Grand Civic Reception which took place at Abia State University pavilion, provided a convivial moment that brought in the display, finest attributes of Ngwa customs and traditions. It was also a platform used to motivate Leaders on the flagship’s stable for excellence and reward for hardwork.
The Executive Governor of Abia State, who was represented by His Senior Special Assistant on General Duties Hon. Erondu Uchenna Erondu, led the team of Top Government Functionaries to the event.
The Pride of Ngwa Royalty was in attendance led by Ngwaland’s foremost Royal Father and a past Chairman of the State Council of Traditional Rulers, His Eminence, Eze Sir Dr. Bernard Enweremadu, The Ezeukwu of Ngwaukwu acient kingdom.
Top Academia’s, Captains of Industries, Ngwa Sociocultural Associations, Traditional Dance Groups, Compendium of Ngwa Students, led by their National President, Emenike Vincent Onyembi were present at the event.
In the his opening remarks, the Chairman of the Occasion Professor A.I Nwabughuogu described Professor Ikonne as a servant leader, an administrative enigma and consummate academic, with enviable pedigree of excellence and uncommon accomplishments.
He further thanked OSO NSU Socio cultural Association, for adding one more feather to the congested cap of Professor Ikonne.
In his address, the Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu Who spoke through his SSA on General Duties, Hon. Erondu Uchenna Erondu described the reception as a call for greater service, noting that Prof. Ikonne, who is the first Vice-Chancellor of Ngwa extraction has made the Ngwas and the State Proud. He further urged heads of other state institutions to approach Professor Ikonne and understudy his style which has made Abia State University a model of administrative and academic excellence
Speaking earlier, the President of OsoNsu Dr. Ogbonna Onuoha said that the event was organized by the association to show love and solidarity for their son who has displayed admirable efficiency in running the affairs of the university.
Reacting to this great honour ,Professor Ikonne who was in company of His Wife Barr. Lady Uzoamaka Uche-Ikonne and Son Dr. Chike Uche-Ikonne, expressed his profound gratitude to his brothers for finding him worthy, noting that this was the first time in the 36year history of the institution.
In a vote of thanks, the Pro-Chancellor & Chairman of Absu Governing Council, His Excellency Senator Adolf Wagbara who spoke through a ranking member of the council, thanked God for this privilege and prayed Gods Continual grace on Professor Ikonne.
High point of the ceremony was the traditional decoration of Professor Ikonne & Wife by Oso-Nsu and the Presentation of Award by the Federation of Ngwa Students.
To God be the glory!
