By Damilola Essien
A surprise celebration of Professor Bart Nnaji’s 67th birthday was a momentous occasion that took place on Thursday, July 13, 2023. It began with a mass celebration at St. Rita’s Parish in Umuode in Nkanu East Local Government Area of Enugu State led by Rev. Fr. Floyd Okechukwu, where friends, family, and well-wishers gathered to express their love and admiration for the esteemed professor.
Following the brief religious ceremony, a quiet reception was held at Professor Nnaji’s Umuode country home. Reverend Father from the Catholic Diocese of Enugu led a prayer, invoking blessings upon the celebrant and many other persons, offering words of gratitude for his remarkable achievements. A reception followed.
Prof Bart and Osodi Agatha Nnaji
One of the highlights of the event was Professor Nnaji’s speech in which he acknowledged and praised the crucial role of women in society. He expressed deep appreciation for their supportive and transformative contributions, emphasizing their strength and dedication.
The birthday celebration attracted a number of dignitaries many of whom got to know of the anniversary in the morning. They included a former Assistant Secretary General of the United Nations, Dr Regina Amadi-Njoku; Justice Anthony Onovo of Enugu State High Court; the member representing Enugu East/Isiuzo Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives, Prof Paul Nnamchi represented by his wife, Mrs. Onyedika Nnamchi, a lecturer at the Department of Psychology, University of Nigeria; some principal officers of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Mr. Johnson Ani and Princess Obiajulu Ugwu, majority leader and deputy chief whip respectively; Honourables Bright Ngene, Gab Eze, Osita Okoh, and Raymond Ugwu; others are His Royal Highnesses Igwe Nwobodo Egbuna and Ejike Ani, traditional rulers of Ogbeke-Ukurutta in Nkanu West LGA and Oruku in Nkanu East LGA respectively as well as a former Commissioner for Information in Anambra State, C. Don Adinuba and the president general of Umuode autonomous community, Emmanuel Owube among many others. Their presence resonated with the profound impact he has made in his research field, in the nation and as a leader in the energy industry.
Birthday boy, Prof Nnaji (middle) and some guests
As the Chairman of the Geometric Power Group, Nnaji, a distinguished professor of robotics engineering and first black man to hold the title of Distinguished Professor in engineering in American history, has amassed an impressive portfolio. His illustrious career includes serving as a former Minister of Power, Chairman of the Presidential Task Force on Power, Special Adviser to the President on Power, and Minister of Science and Technology.
Throughout the gathering, heartfelt speeches and warm tributes were offered by colleagues, friends, and associates, paying homage to Professor Nnaji’s immense contributions to society.
Prof Nnaji flanked by wife, Osodi Agatha Nnaji (R) and Mrs Onyedika Nnamchi on the left
The celebration transcended being a mere birthday gathering; it served as a testament to the remarkable career and positive influence Professor Bart Nnaji has had on countless lives. As the event drew to a close, attendees departed filled with memories of a joyous celebration and an unwavering appreciation for the remarkable life and achievements of this distinguished individual. GMTNews
