The Imo state University on Saturday conferred Honorary Doctorate Degree (Honoris Causa) on the first female governor of Anambra state, Dame Virgy Etiaba and the Group Managing Director of UBA, Oliver Alawuba at 8th convocation ceremony of the school.
Whilst congratulating Etiaba and other award recipients, the Vice Chancellor, Professor U.U. Chukwumaeze pointed out that the conferment is in recognition of their immense contribution to Nigeria’s growth.
Speaking after receiving the recognition, Etiaba expressed her appreciation to the leadership of the University for the honour extended to her.
Etiaba said, “I am grateful to the management of IMSU for the honour and recognition. I promise that I will continue to do my best to make this school and indeed the indigenes of this great state proud. I also seize this opportunity to advise the young ones to be focused and put their best in their studies, so that one day they will also be recognised globally.”
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Other awardees of the honorary Doctorate Degree include Chief Chika Emenike, CEO of Tummy Tummy Noodles, Chitec Motors Limited, and Kotec Group of Companies; and Engr Simbi Wabote, Executive Secretary, Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, NCDMB.
Etiaba, a native of Nnewi in Anambra State was born on November 11, 1942. She had her primary and secondary school education in Kano state, where she was raised by her Uncle, Chief Pius Ejimbe.
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This was followed by her Teachers Training programme in Gombe State. Her educational qualifications include the National Certificate of Education, Bachelor of Education (Hon.) and a certificate in Information Technology.
Etiaba worked as a teacher and headmistress for 35 years in several parts of Anambra state. She retired in 1991 and went on to start the Bennet Etiaba Memorial Schools in Nnewi.
In March 2006, the 64-year-old resigned as the proprietress to take the position of the Deputy Governor of Anambra State.
Later in 2006, she became governor following the impeachment of the previous governor, Peter Obi, for alleged gross misconduct.