A Journey of Dedication, Growth and Gratitude, Says Israel Chinedu Uchenwoke-Ekperechi
E-ISSN: 2354-4481
By Rita Onuoha
IDAH, KOGI STATE — After years of dedication, hard work and perseverance through the demands of academic life, Israel Chinedu Uchenwoke-Ekperechi has expressed gratitude to God, family members, lecturers, supervisors, colleagues and well-wishers following the successful completion of his studies in Electrical and Electronic Engineering at The Federal Polytechnic, Idah, Kogi State.
Uchenwoke-Ekperechi completed his Higher National Diploma (HND) programme after overcoming several academic challenges and successfully concluding his final examinations on August 1, 2026.
According to him, his academic journey was marked by lectures, practical sessions, examinations, projects, friendships and challenges that tested his patience, resilience and determination, but ultimately contributed significantly to his academic and personal development.
A major milestone in the journey came on August 20, 2026, when he defended his final-year project titled, “Design and Construction of a Microcontroller Based Single Phase Automatic Change Over System.”
The project defence, he noted, provided an opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge, technical skills and engineering principles acquired throughout his programme.
Expressing his appreciation, Uchenwoke-Ekperechi attributed his successful academic journey first to God Almighty, whom he thanked for divine protection, provision, guidance, wisdom, knowledge, understanding and good health throughout his studies.
He also expressed special appreciation to his lecturers and academic mentors, particularly Engr. Attai Umar Abdul, Dean, School of Engineering; Engr. Yahaya M. Oruma, Head of Department, Electrical and Electronic Engineering; Engr. Philip Negedu, whom he described as his boss; and his project supervisors, Engr. Abel O. Haruna and Mr. Ayinde Ganiyu, for their guidance and contributions to his academic development.
Uchenwoke-Ekperechi equally paid tribute to his late father, Mr. Ekperechi Ndubuisi Barnabas, whom he described as a man of integrity and an epitome of sincerity.
He recalled his father's advice and prayers, expressing gratitude for the values and encouragement he received from him.
He also acknowledged his mother, Mrs. Ekperechi Annastencia, who, despite not having had the opportunity to receive formal education, remained determined to see her son complete his education.
According to him, the support of his siblings — Mrs. Kattey Glory, Mr. Ekperechi Emmanuel, Pastor Ekperechi Godwin, Hon. John Mbonu Uchenwoke-Ekperechi and Mr. Ekperechi Michael — as well as his nieces, nephews and colleagues in the department, played an important role in his academic journey.
He appreciated them for their prayers, financial assistance, encouragement and other forms of support throughout the programme.
The graduate further extended his gratitude to everyone who contributed, directly or indirectly, to his successful completion of the programme.
Looking beyond graduation, Israel Chinedu Uchenwoke-Ekperechi said he is approaching the next chapter of his life with optimism, determination and a commitment to continuous professional development.
He expressed his desire to build on the knowledge and experience acquired during his studies, develop professionally and contribute meaningfully to society through innovation, technical expertise and service.
His successful completion of the HND programme marks the end of an important academic chapter and the beginning of a new phase focused on professional growth and contribution to the engineering sector.
Idah, Kogi State, Nigeria — The Federal Polytechnic, Idah is a federal polytechnic located in Idah Local Government Area of Kogi State, an area situated along the eastern bank of the River Niger. The institution provides technical and professional education across several disciplines, including engineering and technology.