Imo State Water and Sewerage Corporation (ISWSC) witnessed a heartwarming valedictory session at its Conference Hall, yesterday, as colleagues gathered to bid fond farewell to Dr. Christian Okonkwo Ezeribe, Head of Planning, who is set to embark on his well-deserved retirement journey. The event was attended by distinguished heads of departments and key units, including Procurement, Communication, Audit, Accounts, HSE, and Gender.
The gathering commenced with a solemn opening prayer led by Mr. Eustace Onyealisi, who spoke in Igbo to set the tone for the session.
The opening remarks were delivered by Engr. Emeka Celestine Ugoanyanwu, the Managing Director and CEO of ISWSC. He not only expressed gratitude for Dr. Ezeribe’s dedicated service but also encouraged fellow staff members to share their heartfelt comments and memories.
Engr. Boniface C. Onyeji, Head of the Engineering Department, praised Dr. Ezeribe as a worthy colleague who, despite retiring, remains far from being tired. He lauded Dr. Ezeribe’s contributions to the department and the organization as a whole.
Mrs. Assumpta Ogbonna, Head of Administration and Human Resources, emotionally recounted how Dr. Ezeribe had shown her genuine love during a difficult period in her life. She fondly described him as a jovial and compassionate soul who touched many hearts.
The Head of Sanitation, Mrs Lilian Oledinma, commended Dr. Ezeribe’s sense of humor, highlighting that he still possesses youthful energy and a vibrant spirit. She offered her prayers for divine providence and prosperity as he embarks on this new chapter.
The Head of Accounts, Mrs Obiageri Ogbonna, in her usual fluent English in a British accent with a touching gesture, recited Dr. Ezeribe’s traditional title ‘Agudindu.’ She affectionately referred to him as a brother who had made a lasting impact on the lives of many. Dr. Ezeribe, according to her, ventured where few dared to tread, and although he is retiring, he is far from tired.
Mr. Joseph Ogbonna, Head of HSE, recounted his initial interactions with Dr. Ezeribe during his (Ogbonna’s) tenure as the Secretary of Welfare under his chairmanship. He was captivated by Dr. Ezeribe’s humility and intelligence. He assured all present that they had no regrets about having him as a colleague.
Engr. Henry Adiruo, Head of Water Services, appreciated Dr. Ezeribe’s way of life and offered candid advice. He urged the retiree to reflect on his past experiences and relationship with colleagues to identify areas of improvement. Engr. Adiruo also noted that Dr. Ezeribe is a self-made man with the potential to excel in various fields, including academia.
The Transport Officer, Mr Chibuzor Sunday Nwasoghiogu, described Dr. Ezeribe as not only a good brother but also a valuable adviser. He encouraged the retiree to enjoy his senior citizenship and cautioned against engaging in land disputes as he goes home for retirement, offering blessings for his journey ahead.
Mrs MaryTeddy Ononogbo, who had the privilege of working under Dr. Ezeribe, passionately eulogized her direct boss. She marveled at his agility and grace in completing 35 years of service and emphasized that it is indeed a grace of God. She advised him as a self-made man to re-strategize as he embarks on the journey beyond retirement.
An M&E officer, Eustace Onyealisi, another staff member who had worked closely with Dr. Ezeribe, advised his boss to stay active and avoid unnecessary stress. He encouraged Dr. Ezeribe to allow things to fall into place naturally.
In a poem-like tribute, Mr. Christopher Ononukwe eloquently eulogized Dr. Ezeribe’s courage, emphasizing the irreplaceable value of his wealth of experience and mentorship within the Corporation. His words echoed the sentiment shared by many that Dr. Ezeribe’s contributions continue to be indispensable.
Mrs. Uzoamaka Odom, a Communication Officer, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the void that Dr. Ezeribe’s retirement leaves within the organization. She expressed gratitude for his guidance and support, underscoring the enduring impact of his mentorship.
The Managing Director and CEO, Engr. Ugoanyanwu, delivered closing remarks that resonated deeply with those in attendance. He reflected on the human tendency to recognize the true worth of individuals when they are readily available, emphasizing that moments like these serve as opportunities for introspection and improvement. Engr. Ugoanyanwu acknowledged that Dr. Ezeribe’s retirement, though on short notice, could not go unnoticed due to his meritorious service.
Engr. Ugoanyanwu shared a touching anecdote from his interactions with Dr. Ezeribe. He recalled a momentous night when Dr. Ezeribe had called him at midnight to share the news of earning his Ph.D. The excitement of that moment was palpable as a cash gift was present to the retiree, and it served as a testament to Dr. Ezeribe’s dedication to personal and professional growth. Engr. Ugoanyanwu imparted valuable advice to everyone present, emphasizing the importance of planning ahead and acquiring sellable and productive skills. He concluded by sharing his vision for the Corporation, envisioning a workplace that embraces and accommodates all, including retirees.
In response, Dr. Christian Okonkwo Ezeribe expressed his heartfelt appreciation to ISWSC for organizing the farewell session in his honor. He admitted to being pleasantly surprised when he first learned about it through a publication shared by Mr. Ononukwe on the Corporation’s WhatsApp platform. Dr. Ezeribe conveyed his deep gratitude to ISWSC for its unwavering support throughout his career within the organization.
Reflecting on his journey in the Corporation, Dr. Ezeribe shared his career timeline, which began in 2001 when he joined with a BSc in Marketing. During his service, he pursued higher education, applying for an MBA and ultimately earning a Ph.D. in 2009. He humbly announced that he has been offered a position as a project manager in a private company, signaling his readiness for a new chapter.
In a gesture of goodwill and forgiveness, Dr. Ezeribe addressed any colleagues who may have been offended during his tenure, seeking their forgiveness. He extended his readiness to offer his valuable skills and extensive experience to the Corporation whenever they are needed, underscoring his commitment to its continued success and growth.
The valedictory session served as a touching tribute to Dr. Christian Okonkwo Ezeribe, celebrating his dedication, compassion, and lasting impact on the ISWSC family.
ISWSC Honors Dr. Ezeribe in Fond Valedictory Session
Imo State Water and Sewerage Corporation (ISWSC) witnessed a heartwarming valedictory session at its Conference Hall, yesterday, as colleagues gathered to bid fond farewell to Dr. Christian Okonkwo Ezeribe, Head of Planning, who is set to embark on his well-deserved retirement journey. The event was attended by distinguished heads of departments and key units, including Procurement, Communication, Audit, Accounts, HSE, and Gender.
The gathering commenced with a solemn opening prayer led by Mr. Eustace Onyealisi, who spoke in Igbo to set the tone for the session.
The opening remarks were delivered by Engr. Emeka Celestine Ugoanyanwu, the Managing Director and CEO of ISWSC. He not only expressed gratitude for Dr. Ezeribe’s dedicated service but also encouraged fellow staff members to share their heartfelt comments and memories.
Engr. Boniface C. Onyeji, Head of the Engineering Department, praised Dr. Ezeribe as a worthy colleague who, despite retiring, remains far from being tired. He lauded Dr. Ezeribe’s contributions to the department and the organization as a whole.
Mrs. Assumpta Ogbonna, Head of Administration and Human Resources, emotionally recounted how Dr. Ezeribe had shown her genuine love during a difficult period in her life. She fondly described him as a jovial and compassionate soul who touched many hearts.
The Head of Sanitation, Mrs Lilian Oledinma, commended Dr. Ezeribe’s sense of humor, highlighting that he still possesses youthful energy and a vibrant spirit. She offered her prayers for divine providence and prosperity as he embarks on this new chapter.
The Head of Accounts, Mrs Obiageri Ogbonna, in her usual fluent English in a British accent with a touching gesture, recited Dr. Ezeribe’s traditional title ‘Agudindu.’ She affectionately referred to him as a brother who had made a lasting impact on the lives of many. Dr. Ezeribe, according to her, ventured where few dared to tread, and although he is retiring, he is far from tired.
Mr. Joseph Ogbonna, Head of HSE, recounted his initial interactions with Dr. Ezeribe during his (Ogbonna’s) tenure as the Secretary of Welfare under his chairmanship. He was captivated by Dr. Ezeribe’s humility and intelligence. He assured all present that they had no regrets about having him as a colleague.
Engr. Henry Adiruo, Head of Water Services, appreciated Dr. Ezeribe’s way of life and offered candid advice. He urged the retiree to reflect on his past experiences and relationship with colleagues to identify areas of improvement. Engr. Adiruo also noted that Dr. Ezeribe is a self-made man with the potential to excel in various fields, including academia.
The Transport Officer, Mr Chibuzor Sunday Nwasoghiogu, described Dr. Ezeribe as not only a good brother but also a valuable adviser. He encouraged the retiree to enjoy his senior citizenship and cautioned against engaging in land disputes as he goes home for retirement, offering blessings for his journey ahead.
Mrs MaryTeddy Ononogbo, who had the privilege of working under Dr. Ezeribe, passionately eulogized her direct boss. She marveled at his agility and grace in completing 35 years of service and emphasized that it is indeed a grace of God. She advised him as a self-made man to re-strategize as he embarks on the journey beyond retirement.
An M&E officer, Eustace Onyealisi, another staff member who had worked closely with Dr. Ezeribe, advised his boss to stay active and avoid unnecessary stress. He encouraged Dr. Ezeribe to allow things to fall into place naturally.
In a poem-like tribute, Mr. Christopher Ononukwe eloquently eulogized Dr. Ezeribe’s courage, emphasizing the irreplaceable value of his wealth of experience and mentorship within the Corporation. His words echoed the sentiment shared by many that Dr. Ezeribe’s contributions continue to be indispensable.
Mrs. Uzoamaka Odom, a Communication Officer, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the void that Dr. Ezeribe’s retirement leaves within the organization. She expressed gratitude for his guidance and support, underscoring the enduring impact of his mentorship.
The Managing Director and CEO, Engr. Ugoanyanwu, delivered closing remarks that resonated deeply with those in attendance. He reflected on the human tendency to recognize the true worth of individuals when they are readily available, emphasizing that moments like these serve as opportunities for introspection and improvement. Engr. Ugoanyanwu acknowledged that Dr. Ezeribe’s retirement, though on short notice, could not go unnoticed due to his meritorious service.
Engr. Ugoanyanwu shared a touching anecdote from his interactions with Dr. Ezeribe. He recalled a momentous night when Dr. Ezeribe had called him at midnight to share the news of earning his Ph.D. The excitement of that moment was palpable as a cash gift was present to the retiree, and it served as a testament to Dr. Ezeribe’s dedication to personal and professional growth. Engr. Ugoanyanwu imparted valuable advice to everyone present, emphasizing the importance of planning ahead and acquiring sellable and productive skills. He concluded by sharing his vision for the Corporation, envisioning a workplace that embraces and accommodates all, including retirees.
In response, Dr. Christian Okonkwo Ezeribe expressed his heartfelt appreciation to ISWSC for organizing the farewell session in his honor. He admitted to being pleasantly surprised when he first learned about it through a publication shared by Mr. Ononukwe on the Corporation’s WhatsApp platform. Dr. Ezeribe conveyed his deep gratitude to ISWSC for its unwavering support throughout his career within the organization.
Reflecting on his journey in the Corporation, Dr. Ezeribe shared his career timeline, which began in 2001 when he joined with a BSc in Marketing. During his service, he pursued higher education, applying for an MBA and ultimately earning a Ph.D. in 2009. He humbly announced that he has been offered a position as a project manager in a private company, signaling his readiness for a new chapter.
In a gesture of goodwill and forgiveness, Dr. Ezeribe addressed any colleagues who may have been offended during his tenure, seeking their forgiveness. He extended his readiness to offer his valuable skills and extensive experience to the Corporation whenever they are needed, underscoring his commitment to its continued success and growth.
The valedictory session served as a touching tribute to Dr. Christian Okonkwo Ezeribe, celebrating his dedication, compassion, and lasting impact on the ISWSC family.
Christopher Ononukwe
Communications Desk Officer