By Eze Chukwuemeka Eze,
Preamble
I got to know Chief Mike Nwielaghi when in 2006 we resolved to bring the defunct Action Congress to Rivers State. As a political pundit, his strategic role at the embryo stage of this party in the oil-rich Niger Delta state – widely considered as an enclave of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was a testament to his comparative mastery of the Rivers political terrain peculiar for its complex blend of a recurrent neoclassic of theoretical and practical politics typical of Nigeria.
In his customary goodwill, Mike would always ensure that there were no hitches in the discharge of my responsibilities as Spokesperson of the party in Rivers State.
After the Supreme Court verdict that saw Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi assume duty as Governor of the State, our group was incorporated into the new government. This benevolence opened up a floodgate of opportunities for many of us in the group some of whom were made commissioners, Special Advisers, Board members and more. Without any direct benefit, Chief Mike Nwielaghi remained engrossed in his faithfulness to the course of the Action Congress in the State.
Each time I reflect on his level of patience and tolerance, I see in Chief Mike a man whose commitment to a course qualifies for recommendation for the youths and aspirin leaders.
Today, his patience; his endurance paid off as his past inputs in the political evaluation and development of Rivers State was not only recognized but compensated at the national level when he was appointed as a Member of the Tinubu/Shettima Presidential Campaign Council; the team that produced the present APC administration at the national level. As a Member of the Finance Directorate, Chief Mike assisted in no small measure in ensuring that the inflow of funds for the Campaign was properly managed and duly accounted for.
I am humbled to announce that this gentleman who is a study in humility and patience will become a Diamond celebrant by March 17, when he would clock 60.
60 GARLANDS TO AN ASTUTE ADMINISTRATOR
To the glory of God, I join thousands of others to felicitate this personality who supervises the activities of a very serious Federal Government Institution HYPREP, set up for the cleanup exercise of the damages done to the soil and environment of Ogoni land, as BoT Chair, to celebrate his Six Decades of impactful existence on earth.
To clock 60, a Diamond age, is not an easy feat.
DR NWIELAGHI, BARIEENEE MICHAEL – EARLY LIFE.
Born Tuesday 17 March, 1964; And with diverse marketing and administrative skills with practical on-the-field marketing knowledge. Multi-faceted product developer with over twenty years’ experience in sales and marketing in Nigeria. A political strategist and one given to general mobilization with proven skills in corporate governance and administration. A great team player with biases for value addition both in academic, political and business world. Has varied experience and performs better at critical challenging scenarios. A progressive that is loyal to National patriotism, a democrat who is loving and consistent with goal-oriented missions for all round company and societal benefits.
EDUCATION;
28th May, 2014; Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Marketing. University of Port Harcourt, Choba, Rivers State; 12th May, 2004; Master of Business Administration (MBA) Marketing. Rivers State University, Nkpolu, Port Harcourt. 6th September,1988; Bachelor of Science (BSC) Business Administration and Marketing, Second Class Upper Division Classification. Rivers State University, Nkpolu, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
DEMONSTRATED SIXTEEN YEARS IN THE MARKETING INDUSTRY
Chief Nwielaghi grew sales and profitability in a variety of marketing organizations such as Zonaac Motors Nigeria Limited, Kelwaram Nigeria limited, Kiwi Nigeria Limited, Sunray Publications Limited and Baks Investment Nigeria Limited.
He participated in planning, coordinating sales activities to these organizations in part and dealing with very top executives of companies and business moguls to create sales and value addition.
Analysis of practical trends and better reach to various segments and Nigerian society.
PUBLIC LIFE
Chief Mike Nwielaghi worked as commissioner in Rivers State Electoral Commission and with other board members to plan and implement placements in political offices in the state. Also, in formulating policies for a free, fair and credible elections at the local government levels in the state.
As government nominee of Governing boards of Rivers State University Oruworukwo, Port Harcourt and Federal Polytechnic Ile-Oluji, Ondo State, to develop policies for the growth of these institutions to her full potentials as citadels of learning and character formation.
He was chairman of various political parties such as Alliance for Democracy (AD), Congress for Progressives Change (CPC). Also been national member, Imo State Gubernatorial and state assembly electoral committees.
National Member, Plateau State Congress electoral committee and interim Organizing Secretary, All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State.
Secretary, APC Performance Evaluation Committee and Member Strategy an Implementation Committee APC, Rivers State.
As Chairman, communication and strategy committee of the Ogoni UNEP, we formulated blueprints for smooth take –off, of the HYPREP in Ogoni land to achieve her aims and objectives.
He is always strategic in increasing sales growth and profitability of corporate organizations and expanding market share for these companies as Area managers and Acting Head of Sales.
Grew investment portfolio of Baks Investment Nigeria Limited to over Seven Hundred Million naira in an owner/manager investment status through continuous critical thinking and innovation and research processes.
As political Adviser, Buan council of chiefs & Elders, he was always collaborating to identify social/community needs and taking steps to fill these needs in all strata of Human existence.
Deputy National Secretaryship candidate, APC National Convention and House of Representatives screened and cleared aspirant, Khana/Gokana federal Constituency.
Formulate policies for the effective running of the local council as chairman Advisory Council to Khana Local Government Council and Assistant director, Greater Together Gubernatorial Campaign of Dakuku Peterside were able to scale through the tribunal to the court of Appeal in Abuja
As Visiting Lecturer 1 at the Usman Dan Fodio University, Sokoto he inculcated character and knowledge to students of the university to assume leadership in society.
Chairman, Board of Trustees Ogoni Trust Fund, Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP), a federal appointment to manage $1 Billion Trust Fund and to oversee judicious application of funds. Also to harvest more funds for the cleaning of despoiled Ogoniland and other areas of Niger Deita Region.
CORE COMPETENCES
Mike has strong appetite for value creation and for growth-oriented investments and research activities.
Leadership, critical thinking and team building for societal well-being.
Developing strategic insights in political engineering for the well-being of the citizenry.
Strategic thinking, great speed and dynamism, sound, creative, innovative and artistic disposition to better humanity and society.
Positive public relations and strategic planning at corporate levels.
Strategic potential market and sales analysis and surveys, sales and political forecasting.
WORK CAREER
Zonaac Motors Nig. Ltd- Area Sales Manager (1990-1994 with the Responsibilities for Planning, supervising and coordinating sales activities- South/South/South East vehicle markets in Nigeria.
Sunray Publications Nig. Ltd; Area Manager East; Area Manager West; Ag. Head Sales& Marketing (1994, 1996, 1997) Responsibilities Coordinating and supervising sales and marketing activities of printing business, coordinating and planning, forecasting and sales analysis in the country.
Kewalrams Nig. Ltd PHC- Sales Manager East (1998) Responsibilities of Supervising sales activities in Eastern Nigeria compromising- South/South/South East motor markets.
Kiwi Nig. Ltd Onitsha- Area Manager East/North Central Region (2000) saddled with Directing and coordinating sales and marketing activities of distributors/sales men in South East and North Central Nigeria.
Baks Investment Nig. Ltd PHC- MD/CEO (2003-Date) Responsible for the day to day running of the company and Directing the entire group sales/marketing activities and general contract works/LPOS
HIS VISION
He believes in the continuous advancement through acts of diligence, excellence and appetite for growth of Nigeria.
Promoting peace at all level through good governance, developing communities and building bridges across the tribes in Nigeria.
Encourage use of strategy as essential tool for vision advancement reaching set objectives.
Full support of policy makers blue-print capable of growing commerce, GDP to improve national economy.
Promote policies that will eradicate poverty, and capacity building in our local communities.
Continuous self- training, networking, education political mobilization in order to achieve a better country.
Developing and formulating effective business and sales plan for the growth of the company.
Promote policies and concept of democracy that delivers purposeful leadership that improves the lives of the people and envision a secure future for the nation.
Formulate ways and means including policies for a free, fair and credible election at the local government level.
Dedicate my life to the cause of peace, democracy, stability and good governance in Nigeria and the corporate world.
DR NWIELAGHI AND HIS ACTIVITIES AS THE BOT CHAIRMAN OF OGONI TRUST FUND INC OF HYDROCARBON POLLUTION AND REMEDIATION PROJECT (HYPREP)
During the 31st Anniversary Of Ogoni Day: the HYPREP Board Chairman, Dr. Nwielaghi reeled the gains of the Struggle while urging Ogonis to remain Constructive in their Comments and the expectations, pledging More Commitment to greatness of the Ogoni nation.
He highlighted the significant strides made despite enduring economic and socio-political challenges faced by the his people.
In his goodwill message on Thursday, January 4, 2024, Dr. Nwielaghi recounted the genesis of the struggle three decades ago.
Reflecting on the inception of the peaceful resistance against discrimination, suppression, political marginalization, and environmental degradation under the leadership of late Kenule Beeson Saro Wiwa and other eminent figures, Dr. Nwielaghi emphasized the non-violent nature of the movement.
Despite the loss of revered leaders and community members, Dr. Nwielaghi said the struggle gained recognition both locally and internationally for its peaceful approach, although later disrupted by external forces.
Highlighting the achievements stemming from this struggle, he pointed to the ongoing Ogoni cleanup initiative by the APC-led Federal Government as a pivotal outcome. To promote unity and collaboration with the government to realize the cleanup objectives, the BoT Chairman called for constructive criticism over outright condemnation, advocating for a spirit devoid of animosity and envy.
Addressing various ongoing projects including water schemes, healthcare facilities, shoreline protection, livelihood programs, and environmental remediation, Dr. Nwielaghi underscored their significance, noting that the impact might not be immediately visible due to the nature of remediation work beneath the surface.
He shed light on the meticulous financial processes overseeing the project’s funding, emphasizing the stringent procedures involved in fund disbursement from international banks and the audit trail supervised by reputable entities.
Dr. Nwielaghi appealed for a cessation of baseless accusations and encouraged individuals seeking clarifications to approach the project office rather than resorting to unfounded allegations.
Expressing gratitude to stakeholders including UNEP, International Oil Companies, and JV partners for their unwavering support, he reassured that funding remains secure and reiterated the necessity for continued cooperation to fulfill the project’s mandate.
Dr. Nwielaghi stressed the importance of sustaining the momentum, embracing peaceful dialogue, and urged collective efforts toward the swift execution of the President’s directive by the Governing Council, headed by Honorable Minister of Environment Mallam Balarabe Abbass, the Board of Trustees, and the Project Coordinating Office.
AWARDS/RECOGNITION;
Dr. Nwielaghi has been blessed with several awards/recognition including Justice of Peace (JP) a conferment by Rivers State Government, Advocate for Good governance By the National Network Newspaper, Fellow Institute of Corporate Administrators, Ambassador for Peace and Knight of St Mulumba (KSM) of the Roman Catholic Church.
PUBLICATIONS:
He had made two international publications: Trade Sales Promotion Strategies and Marketing Performance in the Soft Drink Industries in Nigeria. And with two others to publish “impact of merger on commercial bank characteristics: an empirical assessment of the lending behaviour of deposit money banks in Nigeria.
CELEBRATING THIS ICON OF EMANCIPATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE OGONI LAND A BIRTHDAY COMMITTEE WAS SET UP
In this regard, the Organizing Committee for his 60th Birthday Event is set to host a Memorable Birthday Bash for this Icon of Peace.
According to the program outlined for this great event as highlighted in a statement, the organizers have assured that this milestone event promises a day filled with gratitude, reflection, and festivity as friends, family, colleagues, and well-wishers are set to gather and honour a man whose contributions have made a lasting impact on society.
The celebration will begin on 17th March, 2024 with a solemn Thanksgiving Mass at 8:00 am at St. Pius Quasi Parish in Buan Town, Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State.
It would be a spiritual homage, acknowledging Dr. Nwielaghi’s steadfast faith and dedication to serving his community, reflecting the values that have guided his illustrious life and career.
The statement added that the festivities will shift to a joyous Reception and Party at the popular Palacio Event Centre located at 63 Woji Road, GRA, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Commencing at 4:00 pm, this gathering will provide an opportunity for friends, colleagues, and admirers to celebrate Dr. Nwielaghi’s accomplishments and enduring legacy amid music, merriment, and camaraderie.
CONCLUSION:
As the world celebrates this rare gift to humanity by God, I join his friends, associates to present 60 GARLANDS to this deserving man of the moment and pray God to grant him greater and better years ahead IJN
“Happy birthday my brother, friend and leader and may our great God not only bless your new age but grant you more fruitful years for better services to humanity”, Eze said.
Eze wished him the best in all future endeavours and prayed God to continue to give him the requisite foresight needed to make indelible footprints in the sands of time in his service to fatherland.
Eze Chukwuemeka Eze is a Media Consultant based in Port Harcourt and can easily be reached through either ezemediaconcept2020@gmail.com or 08022049770
