Senator Theodore Orji @ 70: 'He is an accomplished administrator, dispassionate grassroots politician'- Prof Ibe

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SENATOR T.A ORJI @ 70: WELCOME TO YOUR MERRY SEPTUAGENARIAN ERA-PROF IBE

Without any iota of doubt Senator Theodore Ahamefule Orji is an accomplished administrator and dispassionate grassroots politician of repute. This incontrovertible fact stem from his rare profile of being one of the few Nigerians that can boast of having the unique record of consistent political elevation from a successful two term service as Chief of Staff to the Governor, to a productive two term tenure as Executive Governor and then to a double span as a distinguished Senator of the Federal Republic.

Having commenced a voyage in the highly turbulent waters of Nigerian politics at the age of 49, Ochendo Global, as the distinguished legislator is fondly called, would easily prove his mettle and thus stamp his authority on the political sphere. 21 years after that cameo appearance, Senator Orji has remained socially and politically relevant.
Under his watch as Governor of Abia state many legacy projects were delivered. My vision of establishing a world-class university that would play a critical role in empowering our people with knowledge and life skills was birthed during the hay days of Ochendos administration.

It is therefore to his credit that Gregory University Uturu was successfully licensed and commissioned during his second tenure in the saddle of Abia Governor. In fact he personally joined other distinguished Nigerians in performing the official launch and commissioning of the university, while providing hosting rights for such international visitors to the institution as the then Vice President of Liberia, Joseph Boakai. Subsequently, it is on record that Ochendo provided the enabling environment that encouraged successful planting and subsequent speedy growth of what has now emerged as the best private university in Nigeria.

Therefore as the iconic federal lawmaker turns 70, I join other men of goodwill across the globe in joyfully ushering Ochendo into the privileged septuagenarian era, while still praying for healthier and merrier days ahead.

Prof Gregory Ibe, PhD, OFR, (Enyi Abia),
Chancellor/Proprietor
Gregory University Uturu