Earlier today (March 22, 2023), the Management of Federal University Lokoja (FUL) ably led by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi joined family, friends, and well-meaning Nigerians to felicitate the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the University, Distinguished Senator Chris Adighije, Ph.D. on the auspicious occasion of his 78th birthday.

It was indeed a joyous moment for the septuagenarian who wore a gleeful smile, as usual, and was overwhelmed with excitement just as the saxophonist played beautifully to kickstart the birthday celebration in the early hours of the day, the ambience thus created a convivial mood.

The Pro-Chancellor was particularly astonished to see the Vice-Chancellor and other Principal Officers from FUL among well-wishers who gathered at his Abuja residence on Wednesday morning to rejoice with him for clocking another year in good health.

In his goodwill message, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, thanked the Council Chairman for the exponential growth the University has witnessed under his dynamic leadership which was made possible through the enabling environment he provided for the administration to record such achievements. 

Speaking further, Prof. Akinwumi expressed gratitude to the Pro-Chancellor for granting the University Management the opportunity to operate without undue interference from him, saying his name would be written in gold in the annals of the history of the twelve-year-old Institution for the development recorded during his tenure as the 3rd Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council of the fast-growing University.

The VC who on behalf of the Governing Council, Senate, Management, Staff, and Students of the University prayed for long life, good health, and God's protection for him, assured that together with his continued support, they would take FUL to a greater height.

The Registrar, Dr. Rebecca Aimiohu Okojie, who lent her voice to that of the Vice-Chancellor to appreciate the Council Chairman, described him as a man of taste who is very generous with compliments, noting that FUL is lucky to have the distinguished Senator chair her Governing Council. She equally thanked him for being very supportive of Professor Akinwumi-led administration, adding that the Vice-Chancellor can only go as far as the Council Chairman gives him the needed backing.

Other dignitaries who spoke at the ceremony, paid glowing tributes to the celebrant whom they described as a gift to humanity, gentle, kindhearted, and a consummate leader who is very tolerant, peace-loving, patient, and an embodiment of humility and generosity.

Reacting to the encomium showered on him, the Pro-Chancellor appreciated the VC and his Management team for finding time out of their busy schedules to visit him in Abuja to celebrate his 78th birthday anniversary. "Akin (as he fondly calls the VC), you have shown me love, and that love will follow you," he prayed. Senator Adighije equally extended his appreciation to the entire members of the University Community for the support and show of love.

The high point of the event was the cutting of the birthday cake, while prayers were offered for the celebrant by his Vicar who also graced the memorable event. Click here to see pictures of the event

Watch the video clips here

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