I find it imperative and a privilege to join family members, colleagues, associates, students and numerous admirers to celebrate a towering figure in academics, legal profession, administration and political leadership, our distinguished and erudite Prof. Nnamdi Onyeka Obiaraeri, who marked his birthday anniversary today.
Agunaechemba is a highly celebrated personality accross fields, whose shining life path has always illuminated his operating environment, while shaping and impacting those who encounter and associate with him positively. Obviously, Prof. Obiaraeri’s achievements and contributions to the growth of humanity and society are extraordinary.
This year’s birthday celebration of this colossus is remarkable, having provided me and his other admirers the opportunity to celebrate this magnificent chapter of the life of a great personality. I’m greatly pleased to express my feelings towards my boss and benefactor who has played significant roles in my life.
Coming in contact with this amiable and easy-going illustrious son of Imo State, has remained one of my best moments. As we got closer, I realized that Prof. Nnamdi Obiaraeri’s presence in my life and family was part of God’s merciful plans to provide me the necessary knowledge and guidance in my life mission and pursuits. I owe him a lot of gratitude.
Beyond his positive impact in my life, Prof. Obiaraeri should be celebrated for his ingenuity, tactfulness and records of excellence in public service as well as in private life. There is no doubt that our birthday celebrant commands large followers who refer to him as a fine politician, scholar, community leader and a public affairs analyst.
From his humble beginnings, Prof. Obiaraeri rose to stardom and admirations by purpose and by dint of hard work. He realized early what God had deposited in him and his would be impact to the society, and thus charted a dignified path for himself with focus, courage and determination.
His emergence as the best graduating law student of his set at the then Imo State University, Uturu, now Abia State University, was both intentional and a testament of a shining star destined to lead and be role model for others in the society. Today, discussing Prof. Nnamdi Obiaraeri in totality is a hard task for me, but the little I pen down flows from a heart of admiration and gratitude.
In the governance, Imo State has benefited immensely from Prof. Obiaraeri’s wealth of knowledge and exemplary services, having served in different capacities and periods as a three-time commissioner, a three-time Special Adviser to the governor and a former Special Assistant (Political) to a former deputy governor of Imo State. During the corresponding periods, Prof. Obiaraeri showed himself a beacon of strength, hope and stability.
In the academic world, the name of Prof. Obiaraeri rings bell for his academic accomplishments, unique teaching methods and profound impact among learners and the entire university community. As a professor of law and a former Dean, Faculty of Law, IMSU, Prof. Nnamdi Obiaraeri has attained the heights of his chosen profession, while bringing in uncommon dedication, skills and mastery to lecturing that inspire love for learning.
Both in and outside the classroom, Prof. Obiaraeri walks shoulder high as a sound teacher, great mentor and positive influence that motivates and inspires students to reach their full potential. He has distinguished himself as a guiding light for individuals to attain their academic and professional pursuits, and no wonder he has endeared himself to people.
Dedicating this tribute to honor a truly exceptional community leader and my cherished mentor is worth this time, space and articulation. Agunaechemba, Owelle Okigwe is deserving of this and even more. It’s worth mentioning that despite climbing the ladder of success, Prof. Obiaraeri has demostrated rare humility and approachability that keeps him in touch with the common man.
As a devoted Christian, Prof. Obiaraeri’s strong profession of faith is demostrated through his membership of the Knighthood of the Methodist Church, Nigeria, though he has gone beyond that to serve God and humanity in extraordinary ways.
Prof., your life was definitely defined by God and you unfolded like a flower with times and seasons each recording great accomplishments in your career path and other engagements that culminated into your destiny which we celebrate.
You have distinguished yourself in the legal profession, practically and academically, while providing useful insights through your God given talents and skills in numerous publications and intellectual journals and books.
My boss, as you mark this milestone, my prayer is for God to continue to bless you and grant you good health of mind and body. May He also grant you greater empowerment in this new age to enable you offer more to your profession and humanity. Happy birthday Sir. Indeed, I celebrate you the five star Civilian General.
Emma Madumere, Esq
