by Blessing Bliss Chukwuma
The Directorate of Alumni Relations (DAR) at Rivers State University, Nkpolu-Oroworukwo, Port Harcourt, in conjunction with the Alumni National Executive Council, convened a momentous event on Friday, 26th July, 2024, at 3:00pm in the Main Banquet Hall of Hotel Presidential, Port Harcourt.
The event was themed “Galvanising the Alumni Community for Impact.”
Galvanizing the Alumni Community for Impact signifies the act of uniting and energizing the alumni community to make a significant and positive difference or influence in society. It involves rallying alumni members together towards a common goal of creating notable and meaningful changes through their collective efforts, experiences, and expertise. The aim is to harness the strength of the alumni network to create a lasting impact on their alma mater, community, or the broader society.
The event showcased a ceremony where distinguished awards were presented to outstanding individuals who have left a mark in their respective fields. Among the honorees was the Governor of Rivers State, who received the Excellence in Governance award for his exceptional leadership. Justice Mary Odili Ukaego was recognized with the Woman of Substance award a prestigious honorary alumni accolade, An Award in recognition of excellence in corporate services was presented to Engr. (Sir) Adokiye Tombomieye OON, FNSE, FNSCHE, Former Executive Vice President. Upstream NNPC Limited.
The keynote address was delivered by Dakuku Peterside, whose impactful speech resonated with the audience, inspiring attendees to drive positive change within the alumni community and beyond.
Leading the event as chairman was Engr. Sir Adokiye Tombomieye, a distinguished figure with a remarkable career history. Engr. Sir Adokiye Tombomieye, OON, FNSE, FNSCHE, served as the Former Executive Vice President of Upstream NNPC Limited. His presence added prestige and gravitas to the gathering, underscoring the importance of alumni engagement in fostering collective impact.
Delivering his poignant speech at the event, Engr. Sir Adokiye Tombomieye expressed how he was deeply moved by the extraordinary evolution of their dear institution-from the College of Science and Technology to the Rivers State University of Science and Technology, now proudly known as Rivers State University.”
He continued, “This progression not only marks our growth and adaptability but also highlights the unique challenges we have faced as an association. We honor each phase of our history-CST, RSUST, and RUST-as integral chapters in our continuous legacy. Since our inception in the 1980s, nearly four decades ago, our association has not just survived; it has thrived. We take immense pride in our impact on society and the contributions of our members.”
The Chairman of the event, Engr. Sir Adokiye Tombomieye, added a touch of distinction to the gathering with his exemplary leadership and illustrious career background. His award underscored the invaluable contributions he has made to the field of corporate services, particularly during his tenure as the Vice President of Upstream NNPC Limited.
The atmosphere at the Special Alumni Business Table Meeting was one of camaraderie and shared purpose. Alumni members from diverse backgrounds came, laying the foundation for future collaborations and initiatives that aims to make meaningful impact in the society together to celebrate their alma mater’s legacy and to envision a future where their collective efforts could make a tangible difference in society.
The Governor of our dear state, His Excellency Sir Siminalayi Fubara, who was ably represented by Rt. Hon. Victor Oko Jumbo, Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly delivered a speech in solidarity and camaraderie to the Directorate of Alumni Relations (DAR) and Alumni National Executive Council.
As the alumni mingled and connected during the event, the spirit of collaboration and unity was palpable. The networking opportunities provided a platform for attendees to exchange ideas, forge new partnerships, and strengthen existing bonds within the alumni community.
Other Awardees were, Hon. Patrick Ekade ( Outstanding Professional Achievement Award), Engr. Vincent G. Nnadi FNSE( lifetime professional award), Her Excellency Engr. Tamunominini Olufunke Makinde (Distinguished Service Award), His Excellency Senator Henry Sariake Dickson ( Alumni Achievement Award), Hon. Justice Matilda Abrakasa Ayemieye(Distinguished Alumna Award for Judicial Excellence), Asu Ekiye( Cultural Impact Award), Dame Beatrice Awala( Alumni Service Award), Hon. Omonibeke Kemelayefa( Excellence in Philanthropy Award), Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri( Distinguished Alumni Award), Christopher Emuemukoro( Excellent Enterprise Management Award), Late Elser P. Z. Aginighan(posthumous Philanthropic Award), Set of 98/99(Award as the most vibrant set), Rivers State Branch ( Award at the most active branch).
The awards ceremony served as a testament to the talent and dedication of alumni members, highlighting their ongoing contributions to various sectors and industries. The recognition bestowed upon the awardees underscored the values of excellence, integrity, and service that the alumni community upholds.
Through engaging discussions, insightful presentations, and interactive sessions, the Alumni National Executive Council and DAR successfully fostered a sense of empowerment and mobilization among attendees. The call to action to galvanize the alumni community for impact resonated strongly, igniting a sense of purpose and commitment among all present.
As the event progressed the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor of Bayelsa State Hon. Gowon Toruyouyei after delivering his solidarity speech on behalf of the governor of Bayelsa State donated a huge sum to the committee to further encourage them.
The Iloma Theatre Entertainment group came out in their beautiful cultural attires and performed a wonderful ijaw traditional dance. They danced rhythmically to the drum beat sounds and sang native ijaw songs leaving the audience very well entertained.
In conclusion, the Special Alumni Business Table Meeting was a resounding success, uniting alumni members in a shared mission to drive positive change and make a lasting impact. The event symbolized the power of collective action, highlighting the potential that lies within the alumni network to effect meaningful transformation in society.
As alumni departed from the meeting they carried with them a renewed sense of purpose and community, ready to embark on a journey towards greater collaboration, innovation, and impact. The echoes of the evening’s discussions lingered in the air, a reminder of the unity and strength that can be achieved when alumni come together to effect change.
The event may have concluded, but the spirit of unity and empowerment that permeated the gathering will continue to inspire alumni members to strive for excellence, lead with integrity, and champion impactful initiatives in their respective spheres of influence. The legacy of the Special Alumni Business Table Meeting will endure as a beacon of inspiration for the alumni community, guiding them towards a future filled with promise and prosperity.
