CELEBRATING MIKE OKIBE ONOJA

Writing about personalities like the “Akanaba K’Idoma” Chief Mike Okibe Onoja-(CON) is quite tasking because his achievements are numerous. Ordinarily I would have kept quiet and sent him birthday wishes, but on a second thought, I felt that the best place to appreciate the good work of selfless and generous leaders is on a platform like this. His parents were not philosophers but in their wisdom, made a prophetic and positive decision to name the baby Michael, sensing a futuristic purpose for him. He didn’t disappoint his parents, rather he is the pride of not only Idoma, but the entire world.

He is a visionary leader whose praxis does not contradict his avowed theoretical beliefs. And as a 17th Century philosopher once said, “Vision is not a product of any college but a great and determined mind.”

The quintessential politician and business mogul is genuinely determined to support the less- privileged and give voice to voiceless.

Chief Mike Onoja maintained consistent connection with not only his Idoma people but with all those needing his help. He has always come to the rescue of many people in times of need, especially the brilliant ones from poor background. His support for education is unequal. Because of his support and contributions to the educational development in Nigeria, the amiable and gentle Chief from the Onoja-Okibe and Enada Onoja family of Agila has been honoured with several honorary degrees. In 2009, h was honoured with the Doctor of Management Science by the University of Mkar, Benue State. It is also on record that the University of Abuja at its 21st convocation Ceremony conferred on him a Doctor of Letters in Feb. 2017.

Also on his recognition of his selfless service to humanity, the Benue State University, Makurdi, added another honorary doctorate degree on March 2017. Dr. Mike Okibe Onoja is an acknowledged philanthropist who has touched people’s lives, shaped society and the destiny of mankind. Chief Onoja left indelible footprints as a supper permanent secretary in all ministries he served with utmost patriotism.

The seasoned and dedicated administrator was conferred with the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) by the Nigerian government in 1999. Chief Onoja is indeed a man of honour. Noah McDickson, Abuja