From Stanley Uzoaru, Owerri
The Nigeria programme Director, Asia Pacific Sports International, Mr Chinedu Nsofor, has described the working relationship between the immediate past deputy governor of Imo State, Professor Placid Njoku and his erstwhile boss, Sen. Hope Uzodimma as the best combination ever produced by the state.
Nsofor noted that Njoku’s synergy with ex-governor Uzodimma paved way for the successes and ground-breaking achievements recorded by that administration.
He said as the pioneer Vice Chancellor of the University of Agriculture, now Michael Okpara University, Umudike, Njoku brought his wealth of experience to transform the educational sector in the state.
According to him, “from the outset, Prof. Njoku demonstrated an extraordinary level of dedication in his role. His collaborative spirit with the Sen. Hope Uzodimma was instrumental in achieving numerous milestones for the state.
“Their partnership became a model for effective governance, showcasing the power of unity, synergy and shared vision in driving progress. His exceptional loyalty to the Executive Governor was without repugnancy.
“He projected his principal’s image, bringing his wealth of knowledge and passion for positive change to the forefront of Imo State governance.
“One of Prof Njoku’s most notable achievements was his role in promoting the image of the 3R administration and also spearheading educational reforms in Imo State.”
Nsofor also added: “Working with his principal, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, Imo State witnessed a significant rise in educational standards and increased access to quality learning.
“Institutions with programmes that were denied accreditation programmes had their programmes accredited. Moribund institutions were resuscitated to provide Imo children more opportunities to actualise themselves academically,” Nsofor highlighted.
Beyond education, he emphasised that Njoku played a pivotal role in various infrastructural developments through his wise counsel and unparalleled contributions to the State Executive Council.