Personality in Focus
December 3 is Made for Henry ‘the Great’ Ukazu
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By Sodeeq Abdulakeem Sulyman
…when a man purges his path, honours will have a safe passage to continually locate him” – Eric Elezuo
To those who are yet to meet Henry Ukazu, today is like every other day. But to those whose paths have crossed with Henry Ukazu’s, today is that special day a unique being was born; a man of unquenchable thirst for knowledge and intellectual exploration, who lives to paint his picture in the frame that suits it, and stands tall, regardless of what life has thrown at him.
That becomes the reason Aare Dele Momodu, popularly known as “Bob Dee” in the social circles always refer to Henry Ukazu as “Henry the Great.” Truly, that title from a great icon and enigma of journalistic bravura simply justified what Ukazu has lived to exemplified. Henry Ukazu, who people may know about through a simple Google search, is a man who has lived to make a difference far and wide, proven the notion that one’s life value revolves around his name.
To show you what makes Henry Ukazu different, let me take you through the trajectory of unraveling the beauty attached to his name…
Humane: Henry Ukazu is a compassionate human being with high sense of empathy. He is an individual who shows concerns for the pain or discomfort of another. He is one of those people you could ever meet and your life would never be the same, because either by his humour or humility, you will be inspired and motivated. Making other people feel valuable is a choice Henry Ukazu has made to be one of the tenets of his life. Rau Gopal Das says, “Being a male is a matter of birth. Being a man is a matter of age. Being a gentle man is a matter of choice…”
Engaging: Henry Ukazu is one of those individuals you could ever interact with and you would be transformed. Name the topic; politics, arts, humanities, science, etc., he had ingrained himself with at least basic knowledge to make himself fit into any discussion you raised when interacting with him. He has been living like a light illuminating other people’s lives with its brightness. The words of Socrates that “True knowledge must be elicited from within, and is to be sought for in ideas, not in particulars of sense.” have shaped Henry Ukazu’s belief that every man is a pool of ideas, if given the chance to know his true self.
Networking: Henry Ukazu is a name that rings the bell in the ears of both the nook and cranny. He has done his assignments astutely when it comes to relating with people and sustaining the relationship. He has the skills of building friendship with people and carve a purpose for it, even when you least expect something to be birthed from the friendship. When someone says, “It’s not the years in your life that count; it’s the life in your years,” it sounds like the words are made for Henry Ukazu. In Henry’s life alone, you will find the traces of many lives.
Respectful: Since the time I have known Henry Ukazu, I don’t think there is anyone who can say Henry Ukazu disrespect them. Even if he does, he did such to fulfill the Golden Rule that do unto others as you want them do unto you. Henry Ukazu accords everyone with respect to show to them that their dignity is paramount to him. When Bonnie Koehn noted that “Healthy people have no need to belittle others. They feel that everyone is equal and there is room in the world for everyone to be great,” you will think he was directly refering to Henry Ukazu.
Youthful: Henry Ukazu is an exuberant individual who gets both his heart and soul illuminated and refined by committing himself to learning new things every day. Sometimes when he calls me to discuss some things, he leaves me wondering how thirsty he is to learn and unravel more secrets, principles of life. He lives to demonstrate someone’s words that “You are never too old to learn and you are never too young to teach. Always have the thirst for knowledge.”
Understandable: Henry Ukazu has the ability to comprehend issues, even by sharing a glimpse of the matter to him. As a noble man that preaches the limitless benefits of self-discovery and self-development, Henry Ukazu possesses the charisma and characters to handle issues and manages conflicts. His understandability has endeared him to many elders, dignitaries and distinguished individuals in Nigeria, Africa and the whole world.
Kind: Henry Ukazu is a jewel to those who possess the qualities he looks for in people and share the same values with him. He may not be there for everyone who has reached out to him – that’s normal. But if you possessed what he appreciates, you can never missed out the showers of the rains of his generosity. Dele Momodu affirmed, “Who says there are no good people in this world? I know there are, because I know them.” Henry Ukazu is one of those good people Bob Dee refers to.
Astute: Henry Ukazu has come a long way to carve a niche for himself, no doubt about that. That affirms it that he is a master of his craft. Unless you are calling him to do what doesn’t align with his values. But if his chemistry matches with a quest, Henry Ukazu goes beyond normal to come out in flying colours. When Amy Blaschka says, “Wisdom is the ability to think and act using knowledge, experience, understanding, common sense, and insight,” Henry Ukazu is one of those he describes.
Zestful: Studying the personal trajectory of Henry Ukazu would reveal to you that great men attain greatness by weathering the storms of their lives to distinguished themselves from ordinary men. Despite the disappointments, vicissitudes of life he had experienced, his energy towards life was neither drained nor sapped. Henry Ukazu is a warrior who has fought the battles of life by setting his sights on the greater rewards.
Unique: Henry Ukazu has lived to the title of a coach, leader, brother, friend, uncle or any titles that defines a noble soul which you think it befits his rare persona. His courage to be true to himself has earned him honour and respect that only true genius can attract. Tatalo Alamu says, “True genius is often such a formidably disruptive phenomenon that it must wear the mask of ordinariness.”
As a protégé, junior brother and grooming associate of Henry Ukazu, whose life has been touched and impacted in various aspects through Henry’s words, teachings, advice, kindness and support, I celebrate him today by compiling a list of his quotes, available here https://bit.ly/HEVs-FD-Here. May the days ahead of him be the best and glorious days of him.
SULYMAN, Sodeeq Abdulakeem is a Librarian, Author. He can be reached via +2348132226994. His new book titled: “The Path to Greatness,” foreword by Henry Ukazu, President and Founder of GLOEMI Inc., The Bronx, New York City, USA, is now available on https://bit.ly/Amzn-HS-TP2G
Personality in Focus
Double Honours for PLWD: Opeoluwa Sotonwa Foundation Opens Applications for Scholarship
The Opeoluwa Sotonwa Foundation (OSF) has announced the opening of applications for the 2026 OSF Scholarship Programme and the Professor Konyinsola Ajayi, SAN Fellowship, reaffirming the Foundation’s commitment to expanding educational opportunities, and developing future leaders within the disability community.
Since its establishment, the Foundation has worked to remove barriers to higher education by providing financial assistance, recognizing academic excellence, and investing in students whose determination and leadership have the potential to create lasting change in their communities.
Dr. Opeoluwa Sotonwa
Founder, Sotonwa Opeoluwa Foundation
The OSF Scholarship Program is open exclusively to Deaf and hard of hearing students enrolled in accredited tertiary institutions in Nigeria. The scholarship recognizes academic merit, leadership, resilience, and a commitment to pay it forward.
The Professor Konyinsola Ajayi, SAN Fellowship is open to law students with disabilities pursuing a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree at an accredited Nigerian institution. Named in honor of one of Nigeria’s most distinguished legal practitioners, the fellowship promotes greater representation of persons with disabilities within the legal profession while supporting the next generation of advocates,
scholars, and public leaders.
Mrs Cassandra Sotonwa,
Chief Operating Officer, Sotonwa Opeoluwa Foundation
“Education has the power to transform lives, strengthen communities, and expand opportunities for generations to come,” said Dr. Opeoluwa Sotonwa, Founder of the Opeoluwa Sotonwa Foundation.
”Through these programs, we continue our commitment to investing in talented students whose perseverance, engagement, and character will help shape a more inclusive and equitable Nigeria. We encourage every eligible student to apply and take advantage of these opportunities.
Applications will be evaluated through a competitive review process based on academic achievement, leadership potential, community engagement, and the overall quality of each application. Priority consideration may be given to applicants who have not previously received an OSF Scholarship or a Konyinsola Ajayi, SAN Fellowship.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to read the application instructions carefully. Only fully completed applications submitted with all required supporting documents by the published deadline of July 30, 2026 will be considered. Incomplete applications or those missing required documentation will not be reviewed.
The Foundation maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward fraud. Any applicant found to have submitted forged or altered transcripts, falsified documents, plagiarized personal statements, or other fraudulent materials will be disqualified and permanently barred from future scholarship and fellowship opportunities offered by the Opeoluwa Sotonwa Foundation.
Application forms, eligibility requirements, and submission instructions are now open and available at opeoluwasotonwafoundation.org.
Interested applicants should review the eligibility requirements and application instructions before submitting their materials.
About the Opeoluwa Sotonwa Foundation
The Opeoluwa Sotonwa Foundation (OSF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing educational access, leadership development, and economic empowerment for persons with disabilities in Nigeria. Through scholarships, fellowships, mentorship, strategic partnerships, and advocacy, the Foundation empowers students to achieve academic excellence, professional success, and meaningful
leadership.
Personality in Focus
Prince Joseph Idiong Headlines NOMA’s Responsible Reporting, Substance Abuse Prevention Workshop
The Nigerian Online Media Alliance (NOMA), a coalition of digital media publishers and journalists committed to promoting ethical journalism, media development, and impactful public advocacy across Nigeria is delighted to present Prince Joseph Idiong, Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Association of Nigerian Exporters (ANE), as a Special Guest Speaker at the Media Practitioners’ Capacity Building Programme on Responsible Reporting and Substance Abuse Prevention.
Prince Joseph Idiong is a distinguished communications strategist, international trade expert, commercial diplomat, and private sector advocate whose professional career spans over four decades across the media, public relations, advertising, international trade, export development, and business consultancy sectors.
Widely respected for his exceptional contributions to Nigeria’s export sector and international trade relations, Prince Idiong has built an enviable reputation as a bridge-builder between government, business, development institutions, and the international trading community. His extensive experience in media and communications, combined with his expertise in export promotion and commercial diplomacy, places him among Nigeria’s foremost authorities on non-oil exports, trade facilitation, and economic diversification.
A Member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (MNIPR) since 1995 and a Member of the Business Education Exams Council (MBEEC), Prince Idiong began his professional journey in broadcasting when he joined the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) as an Announcer in 1977. His passion for communication and public engagement later took him to the Cross River Broadcasting Corporation, where he further honed his skills in electronic media.
His successful transition into print journalism saw him rise to the position of Industrial Editor of the Nigerian Industrialist Magazine, where he developed a deep understanding of Nigeria’s industrial and business environment. His outstanding performance in media practice subsequently earned him appointments as Special Projects Consultant to both Guardian Magazine and TELL Magazine, two of Nigeria’s most influential publications.
Beyond journalism, Prince Idiong distinguished himself in the fields of public relations and advertising, working with Seric Advertising Limited in Lagos before co-founding Bigtime Productions Limited, an integrated communications company that provided public relations, advertising, marketing, and strategic communication services to corporate and institutional clients.
His academic and professional development journey reflects a commitment to excellence and lifelong learning. He received professional communications training at Calabar Polytechnic, the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) Training School—now the National Broadcasting Academy—as well as the Business Education Exams Council and the International Institute of Journalism (IIJ), an affiliate of the University of Maiduguri.
His extensive public relations consultancy work exposed him to business development and non-profit sector advisory services through engagements with major organisations including the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), the Akwa Ibom State Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, and the Association of Nigerian Exporters (ANE). His remarkable contributions eventually led to his appointment as Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Association of Nigerian Exporters, the umbrella body representing Nigerian exporters and export-oriented businesses.
In the international trade sector, Prince Idiong is a Fellow of the Institute of Export of Nigeria (FIEx) and one of Nigeria’s most experienced trade promotion professionals. He has served on the Board of the Nigerian Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) from 2005 to 2016 and later as a Board Member of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) from 2018 to 2023, contributing significantly to policy formulation, export promotion, and investment development initiatives.
For more than twenty-five years, he has been actively engaged in Commercial Diplomacy Practice, developing expertise in international trade negotiations, export development strategies, investment promotion, and economic cooperation. His professional accomplishments include obtaining international certifications in fifteen export trade courses, in addition to participating in numerous local and international trade workshops, conferences, and capacity-building programmes.
As an international resource person and trade mission leader, Prince Idiong has represented Nigeria and the private sector in over twenty countries across Africa, Europe, Asia, and North America, including the United States, China, India, Russia, South Africa, Mauritius, Egypt, Ireland, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. His contributions have helped strengthen Nigeria’s trade relationships, expand market access opportunities, and promote Nigerian businesses on the global stage.
One of the defining moments of his career came in 2006 when he served as the Nigerian Government-nominated and United States Government-preferred Lead Negotiator during the USA-Nigeria Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) negotiations held at the United States Trade Representative (USTR) Headquarters in Washington, D.C.
In this strategic role, Prince Idiong successfully led negotiations with key U.S. government agencies on matters affecting bilateral trade and transportation relations between both countries. His efforts contributed significantly to the lifting of the ban on direct flights between Nigeria and the United States, a major milestone in Nigeria-U.S. diplomatic and commercial relations.
Another landmark achievement was his successful engagement with the United States Export-Import Bank (US EXIM Bank), where he negotiated the establishment of a dedicated financing facility for businesses operating under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). His intervention resulted in the approval of the Nigerian Banking Facility, which commenced with a funding commitment of $300 million and later expanded to $1 billion, creating significant opportunities for Nigerian exporters and businesses seeking access to international markets.
Throughout his career, Prince Idiong has participated in numerous bilateral and multilateral trade negotiations on behalf of Nigeria. These include the United Nations Commission for Europe Trade Facilitation Negotiations in Geneva, Switzerland; the United States-Nigeria Trade and Investment Framework Agreement negotiations in Washington, D.C.; and the Nigeria-China Bilateral Trade Negotiations in Beijing, China.
In recent years, he has continued to play an active role in shaping trade and export policy across Africa. He was a member of the Federal Government delegation to the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) in Egypt in 2018 and South Africa in 2021. In 2022, he participated in the Federal Government delegation to the inauguration of the Nigerian Export Trade House in Nairobi, Kenya.
As a thought leader and respected speaker on international trade and economic development, Prince Idiong has delivered keynote addresses and presentations at major national and international events. In 2023, he served as Guest Speaker at the Central Bank of Nigeria Export Seminars held in Lagos, Kano, and Port Harcourt. In 2024, he was a featured speaker at the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Workshop organised by the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies in partnership with the European Commission in Abuja. He also spoke at the Africa Agri Council Conference, where he shared valuable insights on agricultural exports, regional trade integration, and economic transformation.
As a Speaker at this programme, Prince Joseph Idiong brings a wealth of experience in communications, international trade, economic diplomacy, business development, and public policy. His unique perspective on the intersection of media, commerce, governance, and national development will provide participants with valuable insights into how responsible communication and strategic engagement can contribute to economic growth and sustainable development.
Participants can look forward to learning from a seasoned communications professional, accomplished trade diplomat, and respected business leader whose career has been dedicated to promoting Nigeria’s interests, expanding opportunities for exporters, and strengthening the country’s position in the global economy.
For partnership, sponsorship, participation, and media enquiries, interested organisations and individuals are encouraged to contact the organisers.
Media Contacts: Call: 08034499132; 08165322757 and 09034242439. Email:nomamedia25@gmail.com
In Nigeria’s rapidly evolving construction and infrastructure landscape, professionals who combine technical expertise, leadership, innovation, and integrity continue to play a vital role in shaping the nation’s development. Among such professionals is Engr. Michael Hosea Chihirvwam, a distinguished builder, civil engineer, construction technologist, and entrepreneur whose commitment to excellence has positioned him as a respected figure in the construction industry.
As the Managing Director of Depunz Construction Limited, Engr. Bldr. Michael Hosea is actively contributing to the transformation of Nigeria’s built environment through the delivery of quality construction projects, infrastructure development, project management services, and sustainable engineering solutions. His professional journey reflects years of dedication, continuous learning, and a passion for creating structures that improve lives and support national development.
Born on September 11, 1983, in Kaduna State, Nigeria, Michael Hosea developed an early interest in construction, engineering, and the practical application of technology to solve societal challenges. This passion led him to pursue a strong educational foundation in the built environment, earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Building Technology, a Bachelor of Engineering Degree in Civil Engineering, and a Master of Science Degree in Construction Technology.
His academic background has equipped him with a unique multidisciplinary perspective, enabling him to understand and manage the technical, structural, managerial, and operational aspects of construction projects from conception to completion. This combination of knowledge has become one of his greatest strengths as a construction professional.
A firm believer in professional excellence and ethical practice, Engr. Hosea is a Member of the Nigerian Institute of Building (MNIOB) and is duly registered with the Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON) and the Nigerian society of Engineers. These professional affiliations underscore his commitment to maintaining industry standards and delivering projects that meet established regulations and best practices.
Throughout his career, he has gained valuable experience working with reputable organizations and construction firms, including Allied Consultants and Projects, Edil Belmonte Nigeria Limited, the Borno State Ministry of Works and Transport during his National Youth Service, and Eddiliz Nigeria Limited. These experiences exposed him to diverse construction projects, engineering challenges, and project management responsibilities that have significantly shaped his professional competence.
Driven by a desire to provide innovative solutions to Nigeria’s growing infrastructure needs, Engr. Hosea played a pivotal role in the establishment and growth of Depunz Construction Limited, an indigenous building construction and civil engineering company incorporated in 2013. The company was established to respond to the increasing demand for quality infrastructure and development services in Nigeria and other developing economies.
Under his leadership, Depunz Construction Limited has grown into a multidisciplinary construction and engineering firm providing services across several sectors of the economy. The company’s operations cover architectural design, building construction, civil and structural engineering works, project management and planning, electrical power development, water engineering, renewable energy applications, development consultancy, and turnkey project delivery.
One of the hallmarks of Engr. Hosea’s leadership is his commitment to assembling and managing a highly skilled team of architects, engineers, quantity surveyors, builders, and technical specialists. Through this collaborative approach, Depunz Construction Limited has successfully executed a range of projects, including residential developments, institutional facilities, infrastructure works, renovation projects, and engineering installations.
The company’s project portfolio demonstrates its capacity to handle diverse assignments. Among notable projects are the remodeling and conversion of residential buildings into modern duplexes, construction of residential developments in Plateau State and Abuja, renovation of housing units, design and supervision of institutional facilities, and the development of student accommodation projects.
Beyond traditional construction, Engr. Hosea has embraced the growing importance of sustainability in development. Through Depunz Construction Limited, he actively promotes renewable energy applications, sustainable building practices, rural electrification initiatives, water supply infrastructure, and environmentally responsible engineering solutions. His vision aligns with global efforts to create resilient communities and sustainable urban development.
As a practicing professional, Engr. Hosea remains actively involved in project planning, construction supervision, quality assurance, client engagement, and strategic business development. His hands-on leadership style enables him to maintain close oversight of projects while ensuring that client expectations, safety standards, and quality specifications are consistently achieved.
Colleagues and industry associates describe him as a disciplined professional, a strategic thinker, and a results-oriented leader who approaches every project with a strong sense of responsibility and attention to detail. His ability to balance technical precision with practical execution has earned him the confidence of clients, consultants, contractors, and stakeholders.
Beyond business success, Engr. Hosea views construction as a vehicle for national development. He believes that quality infrastructure is essential for economic growth, social progress, and improved living standards. This philosophy continues to guide his professional decisions and inspires his commitment to delivering projects that create lasting value for communities.
Today, as Nigeria seeks innovative solutions to its housing deficit, infrastructure challenges, and sustainable development goals, Engr. Michael Hosea continues to play a significant role in advancing the nation’s development agenda. Through Depunz Construction Limited, he remains dedicated to providing professional expertise, engineering excellence, and practical solutions that contribute to building stronger communities and a more prosperous future.
His story is one of vision, perseverance, professional growth, and purposeful leadership. It is a story that reflects the transformative power of expertise and determination in shaping the physical environment and creating opportunities for future generations.
For Engr. Michael Hosea, every completed project represents more than a structure of concrete, steel, and bricks. It represents a commitment fulfilled, a problem solved, a community strengthened, and another step toward building the Nigeria of tomorrow.
Professional Profile at a Glance
Name: Engr. Michael Hosea Chihirvwam
Profession: Builder, Civil Engineer, Construction Technologist, Entrepreneur
Position: Managing Director, Depunz Construction Limited
Date of Birth: September 11, 1983
Academic Qualifications:
– B.Sc. Building
– B.Eng. Civil Engineering
– M.Sc. Construction Technology
Professional Memberships:
– Member, Nigerian Institute of Building (MNIOB)
– Registered Builder, Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON)
Core Areas of Expertise:
– Building Construction
– Civil and Structural Engineering
– Project Management
– Construction Technology
– Infrastructure Development
– Water Engineering
– Renewable Energy Applications
– Development Consultancy
Vision:
To contribute meaningfully to national development through innovative, sustainable, and high-quality construction solutions that improve lives and transform communities.
This article is controbuted by Theresa Moses
