From Stanley Uzoaru, Owerri
The Nigeria programme Director, Asia Pacific Sports International, Mr Chinedu Nsofor, has expressed his happiness over what he described as the outstanding legacies of the immediate past deputy governor of Imo State, professor Placid Njoku.
Nsofor noted that Njoku’s synergy with his boss,governor Hope Uzodinma brought a lot of economic and infrastructural changes in the State .
He said particularly the former deputy governor who is the pioneer Vice Chancellor of the University of Agriculture Umudike now Michael Okpara University brought in his wealth of experience to transform the educational sector in the State.
“From the outset, Prof. Njoku demonstrated an extraordinary level of dedication in his role. His collaborative spirit with the Governor, His Excellency, Sen Hope Uzodinma, 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’s 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.
“As an academician himself, he recognised the transformative potential of education and worked tirelessly to improve the quality of schools, provided quality advise for the enhancement of curriculum standards, and provided better opportunities for students of Imo State using his wide range of both national and international networks in the educational sector”. Nsofor said
He also added “Working within his Principal Distingiushed Sen Hope Uzodinma, Imo State witnessed a significant rise in educational standards and increased access to quality learning.
” Institutions with programmes with 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 at the State Executive Council.
He noted that his unwavering support for the Governor’s agenda and his intelligent guidance as a seasoned scholar of international repute, saw the implementation of key projects that improved the lives and well-being of the citizens of Imo State.
However, he regretted that he would be greatly missed by people of the State for all his wonderful achievements.
“As Prof Njoku takes a bow of honour after four years of selfless and dutiful service, the people of Imo State reflect on the legacy of exceptional loyalty and the values of hard work and servant leadership he leaves behind. His tenure has been a testament to the power of collaboration, dedication, and a shared vision for progress despite visible hardships faced during times of global health, economic and security challenges.