Dr. Ekaette Unoma Akpabio: A Luminary in education and champion in democracy

By Kemfon Neke

By: Kemfon Neke

On June 9, 1971, in the heart of Enugu, a golden star was born into the world. A child of destiny, a beacon of hope, and a woman whose life would later be defined by service and impact. That star, Unoma Godswill Akpabio, emerged from the esteemed family of the late Godwin and Beatrice Nkemdilim Ejike of Ozom Aguobu-Owa in Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State. From an early age, it was evident that she was destined for greatness, not only as a woman of strength and resilience but also as a trailblazer in education and human development. Today, as she receives the prestigious honorary doctorate in education from the University of Calabar, we celebrate a life of dedication, commitment, and remarkable achievements. This conferment is not just an academic recognition. It is an affirmation of her life’s work, a journey marked by an unwavering dedication to transforming lives through education. It is especially significant that this recognition comes during the Lenten period, a season of reflection and devotion, a time that resonates deeply with her faith and commitment to humanity. Like the Blessed Virgin Mary whom she reveres, Unoma Akpabio has lived a life of purpose, placing service to others at the core of her mission.From her early years, education was a fundamental pillar in her life. She attended Zik Avenue Primary School and later City Girls Secondary School in Enugu, growing up in an environment where knowledge was cherished. Her academic pursuit continued at Abia State University, Uturu, where she earned a degree in Education and Accounting. The foundation laid in these institutions would go on to define her life’s mission, which is to make quality education accessible and transformative. Throughout her academic journey, she excelled in various subjects including English Language, Mathematics, Agriculture, and Health Science. This broad knowledge base would later inspire her to champion educational reforms and innovations. Her passion for education and learning mirrors the work of Maria Montessori, a renowned educational pioneer. Like Montessori, she understood that education is more than just the acquisition of knowledge. It is the key to shaping minds, fostering independence, and unlocking human potential.Mrs. Unoma Akpabio’s impact on education became most profound during her years as the First Lady of Akwa Ibom State. With an astute understanding of the transformative power of learning, she played a pivotal role in the declaration of free and compulsory education in the state. This groundbreaking policy, spearheaded by her husband, then-Governor Godswill Akpabio, revolutionized the educational landscape. The result was a historic increase in school enrollment, leading to massive investments in infrastructure through the Inter-Ministerial Direct Labour Project. Her commitment to education did not stop there. After her husband’s tenure, she took on a more direct role in shaping young minds by managing and developing Saint John Paul School. Under her leadership, the institution grew into one of Nigeria’s best primary and secondary schools. Her focus was not just on academic excellence but also on making high-quality education affordable for middle- and low-income families. Her efforts in educational reform extended beyond infrastructure and policy. She championed the adoption of the Montessori Method in Akwa Ibom public schools, a child-centered approach that fosters creativity, independence, and self-directed learning. Her belief in this system, much like Montessori herself, has left a lasting imprint on thousands of children, equipping them with the critical skills needed to navigate an ever-evolving world.Beyond education, Dr. Unoma Akpabio has been a leading advocate for women’s empowerment, pushing for increased representation and opportunities for women in leadership. She has consistently used her platform to uplift and inspire women, ensuring that they have a voice in governance, business, and social development. Her advocacy has set a precedent for many, proving that with determination and vision, women can be formidable forces in shaping society. Her leadership is not just about policies but also about people. It is about the young girl in a rural community who dreams of an education. It is about the mother who desires a better future for her child and the teacher who seeks to inspire the next generation. Unoma Akpabio has become a torchbearer of empowerment, igniting a flame that will continue to burn brightly for years to come.Dr. Unoma Godswill Akpabio’s impact on education, empowerment, and social transformation will resonate for generations. She is not merely a participant in history but a defining force shaping its course. Her contributions to education, particularly in Akwa Ibom State, have positioned her as a beacon of knowledge and enlightenment. She has illuminated the path for countless learners and educators, proving that education is not just about acquiring knowledge but about transforming lives and creating opportunities for future generations. Beyond her contributions to learning, she is a visionary with a heart of gold. Her compassion and deep sense of purpose have reshaped the educational landscape in ways that extend beyond infrastructure and policy. She has ensured that education remains accessible, especially to children from middle- and low-income backgrounds, demonstrating that true leadership is about service to humanity. Despite her numerous achievements, she carries herself with remarkable humility and grace. She exemplifies true royalty, not in terms of wealth or opulence, but through her unwavering dedication to uplifting others.Dr. Unoma Akpabio’s life and career stand as a testament to the power of empowerment. Her efforts have ignited a flame of inspiration, encouraging not just women but entire communities to dream bigger, strive for excellence, and achieve their fullest potential. She is a builder of futures, having laid the foundation for thousands of young minds to thrive through her commitment to quality education. Her legacy is not just about the policies she has influenced or the institutions she has helped build. It is about the countless lives she has touched. She is a woman who has balanced strength with compassion, demonstrating that true leadership requires both resilience and kindness. As an Amazon of education, she has broken barriers and reshaped the educational landscape with her courage, determination, and unyielding commitment to excellence. Through her work, she has also become a mother of possibilities, opening doors for children who once thought their dreams were beyond reach.As she joins her beloved husband, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, as a proud Malabress of the Malabor Republic, this honorary doctorate is more than just a title. It is a recognition of a life well-lived in service to humanity. It is a testament to her tireless work, her visionary leadership, and her unwavering commitment to the betterment of society. Dr. Unoma Godswill Akpabio is not just a woman of influence. She is a force of nature. She is a living testament to the power of education, empowerment, and compassion. Her name will forever be etched in the annals of history as a true Amazon of education. She is a woman whose legacy will continue to inspire and transform lives for generations to come. Congratulations, Dr. Unoma Godswill Akpabio! The world celebrates you today and always.Kemfon Neke is a public analyst, lawyer and serves as secretary of Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District Professionals (IK-PRO)

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