By Amaka Iloanya
The Methodist Church of Nigeria has honoured the Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, with the Transformational Impact Leadership Award in recognition of her outstanding contributions to education and youth development.
The award was presented during a special thanksgiving service held on July 12 and presided over by the Diocesan Bishop, the Rt. Rev. Onyekachi Nwakamma, alongside other clergy of the Diocese.
Speaking at the ceremony, Elder Gaius Oti said the honour was in recognition of Dr. Awuzie’s visionary leadership in the education sector and her commitment to partnering with the church in mentoring and positively influencing young people.
The Rector’s citation, read by the Very Rev. Paul Ede, highlighted her distinguished career, institutional reforms, commitment to academic excellence and significant contributions to youth development and nation building.
Very Rev. Ede described the award as a token of appreciation for Dr. Awuzie’s exemplary leadership, praying for God’s continued guidance upon her, her family and the management of the institution.
In his remarks, Bishop Nwakamma commended the Rector for the remarkable achievements recorded within a short period in office, noting that her harmonious relationship with staff and students has contributed to the institution’s steady growth and development.
He described Dr. Awuzie as a partner in soul-winning who has remained committed to shaping the lives of young people through education and moral leadership.
“The Rector has demonstrated that it is possible to serve the public with diligence while remaining devoted to God and humanity. Her Christ-like leadership and dedication to raising future leaders make her deserving of this honour,” the bishop said.
Responding, Dr. Awuzie expressed appreciation to the Methodist Church for the recognition, pledging to remain committed to purposeful leadership.
She highlighted some ongoing development projects at the Polytechnic, assuring the institution’s stakeholders that she would continue to justify the confidence reposed in her.
Amaka Iloanya is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
