By Noble Uchegbu Uchechukwu Zachariah
It was more than a birthday; it was a global affirmation of excellence, as Southeast’s social and academic community converged to celebrate Dr. (Mrs.) Basilia Nkemdilim Igbokwe, Rector of Federal Polytechnic Nekede.
The evening radiated elegance, laughter, and intellectual camaraderie, drawing a galaxy of dignitaries from politics, academia, and industry. Anchored by a celebrated Imo-born compere, the event unfolded with wit and mastery, as guests and dignitaries were ushered into the evening’s program.
Among the distinguished attendees were Her Excellency, Dr. Lady Chinyere Ihuoma Ekomaru, Deputy Governor of Imo State, who represented the Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, and was accompanied by her husband, Chief (Barr.) Chukwuma Ekomaru, SAN. Also present were Hon. Dr. Macdonald Ebere, Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Imo State, alongside his wife; Rt. Hon. Deacon Chike John Okafor, Ph.D., Member representing Okigwe South Federal Constituency; Prof. Stella Ngozi Lemchi, Vice Chancellor of Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education, Owerri; Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, Rector of Federal Polytechnic Oko; Engr. Dr. Okoro Christopher Kalu, Rector of Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic (formerly Abia State Polytechnic); Prof. Ikechukwu Nosike Simplicius Dozie, Vice Chancellor of Kingsley Ozumba Mbadiwe University, Ideato; and Prof. Kanayo Stephen Chukwuka, Rector of Imo State Polytechnic, Omuma. Captains of industry, including Evangelist B. C. Abana, Chief Executive Officer of OBZ Elotronics Nig. Ltd., were also in attendance, alongside the Registrar and Bursar of Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Mr. Stanley Ugochukwu Njoku and Mrs. Adanne Chinyere Ojiuko, with their spouses.
The evening was chaired by Chief Charles Okeke (Odiuko na Mba), who declared the event open and urged the audience to celebrate the Rector with admiration and inspiration. A touching highlight came when the celebrant and her husband, Dr. Igbokwe, graced the dance floor, drawing warm applause as dignitaries, especially the Deputy Governor’s family and heads of institutions, joined them in the rhythm.
The celebrant’s journey was brought to life through a historical profile delivered by Lady Marietta Ihekire, who traced Dr. Igbokwe’s path of resilience, talent, and merit-driven rise to the office of Rector.
She described her as “a woman who embodies excellence and leadership intentionally earned.”
In a symbolic gesture of academic sisterhood, Prof. Stella Ngozi Lemchi proposed a toast, recalling her long-standing bond with Dr. Igbokwe since their days at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN). She commended the celebrant’s inspiring trajectory and wished her continued prosperity.
Delivering the Governor’s goodwill message, Dr. Lady Ekomaru extolled Dr. Igbokwe as “a trailblazer in education, a beacon of hope to women, and a leader who has redefined governance through innovation, excellence, and passion for youth empowerment.” She praised the Rector as “brain with beauty, a goal-getter, and an asset not only to Imo State but to the nation at large.”
In her heartfelt appreciation, Dr. Igbokwe expressed profound gratitude to all dignitaries in attendance and reaffirmed her commitment to academic advancement through innovation-driven policies, gender inclusivity in leadership and education, and global competitiveness that will sustain Federal Polytechnic Nekede’s reputation as a hub of distinction.
The night concluded with electrifying rhythms from DJ Legacy, ensuring the celebration closed on a high and leaving indelible memories for all present. For many, the evening was not merely a birthday celebration, but a reaffirmation of the Rector’s enduring legacy as a transformational leader whose influence transcends classrooms and boarders.
