The 70th birthday colloquium/symposium in honour of Senator Dr. George Akume,CON,Secretary to the Government of the Federation is one of initiatives/concepts as the Special Adviser to the Executive Governor of Benue State on Research,Documentation and Strategy.
The kernel of my motivation to the above idea is structured on the significant need to resonate Senator George Akume,CON at a most significant time in the life a man whose selflessness,wisdom,charisma,courage and commitment as a patriot,statesman and democrat have all continued to shape,determine and contribute to the variegated transformation of human society in Nigeria.
Indeed,attaining the age of 70 in the sterling frame and credible realities of the personality of Senator George Akume,CON is no doubt a unique opportunity granted by God,which ought to be appreciated and celebrated in the best ways possible,for the living and posterity to learn and build on. Hence,the COLLOQUIUM/SYMPOSIUM!!
Deriving from the above,I wish to specifically and specially thank the following people who stood by me in making the 70th Birthday Colloquium/Symposium of Senator George Akume,CON a reality and success.
First,I wish to thank God Almighty for granting me every opportunity of putting together a colloquium/Symposium for Senator George Akume,CON!!
Secondly,I wish to sincerely appreciate my immediate Boss and Principal,His Excellency,Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia,the Executive Governor of Benue State,whose approval,support and prayers for the success of the colloquium/ symposium took a limitless point of centrality among his competing commitments and activities. It is most gladdening that Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia in his speech at the colloquium made clear the his administration will traditionalize and sustain the honour of colloquium in honour of Senator George Akume,CON,annually.
Thirdly, I owe a huge bunch of gratitude to Dr. Kashim Imam -Ibrahim,OFR,CON who is a close associate,friend and a brother to Senator George Akume,CON. Dr. Kashim Imam- Ibrahim’s immeasurable contributions to the hosting of Senator George Akume’s 70th birthday colloquium/symposium can only be rewarded by God Almighty,who sees and knows the true love of a TRUE friend,associate and brother like Dr. Kashim-Imam Ibrahim. May God reward you abundantly,Sir.
Fourthly,I wish to appreciate the Chairman of the Central Planning Committee of the Reception and Thanksgiving Service for Senator George Akime,CON,in the person of Architect Sunny Echono,for his contribution,shared understanding and cooperation in making the 70th birthday colloquium/symposium a reality. I lack words to thank you,Sir.
My similar appreciation goes to Dr. Bello Maigari, the Executive Secretary of the National Lottery Trust Fund,who apart from his contributions as a lead discussant at the symposium,he also made huge contributions and support to the success of the colloquium.
I thank Eng.Sylvanus Ghasarah,His Excellency,Engr. Benson Abounu,Professor Terlumun Joseph Utsev,Professor Sam Egwu,Chief Senator Jacob Tilley-Gyado,OFR,CON,Her Excellency,Mrs. Pauline Tallen,OFR Dr. Steve Nder Andzenge,Sir Tersoo OrnguDwem,Hon. Dr. Samuel Adaa Maagbe,Mr. Chia Waya,HRH Martins Kure Abeshi,MFR (Sangarin Amba,CGI Retired),Professor Alloy Ihuah,Professor Gabriel Ukertor Moti,Professor Gabriel Nyityo,Professor James Tor-Iorapuu,Professor Linus Chia Saalu,Rev. Fr. Dr. Patrick Alumuku,Professor Otor J.Okwu and Dr. Babayo Ardo.
I wish to appreciate the incredible support from Alexandra Doom Ikerave,the secretary of the colloquium/symposium organizing committee and all members.
I pray and God for God’s abundant blessings unto,and happy and prosperous new year ahead.
Dr. Mkor Aondona Donatus
Convener/Chairman,70th Birthday Colloquium/Symposium In Honour Of Senator George Akume,CON,And Special Adviser to the Executive Governor of Benue State On Research,Documentation and Strategy
28th December,2023
