The Managing Director/CEO of the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company PLC (EEDC), Engr. Vincent Ekwekwu, has been honoured with the “Kwame Nkrumah Grow Africa Prize for Excellence” by the Grow Africa Youth Initiative.
The award was presented on Monday, during a courtesy visit by a delegation of the Grow Africa Youth Initiative to the management of EEDC at the company’s Corporate Headquarters, Power House, Enugu.
The organization also recognized the management and staff of EEDC for their contributions to the company’s mandate and presented a commendation in appreciation of the outstanding achievements recorded by the company over the years.
The delegation, led by the President of Grow Africa Youth Initiative, Comrade Ozim Temple, included the General Secretary, Hon. Akufo Donald, and Deputy Media Coordinator, Comrade Yusuf Hamisu. They were received by the management of EEDC, led by its Managing Director/CEO, Engr. Ekwekwu.
Speaking during the visit, Ozim said the award was instituted to recognize individuals of African origin whose lives exemplify the ideals of selflessness and service to humanity, while contributing significantly to the advancement of Pan-Africanism, moral values, leadership and human capital development. According to him, the initiative envisions an Africa where patriotism, love, and respect for human rights are harmonized towards building a better continent.
Explaining the mission of the organization, Ozim described the Grow Africa Youth Initiative as an Africa-based youth organization focused on leadership, Pan-Africanism, and entrepreneurship, with the objective of empowering young Africans to distinguish themselves and make meaningful contributions on the international stage.
He disclosed that the organization is currently implementing two major projects, namely the “Drug Abuse Sensitization” and “Agriculture for All” initiatives, while also identifying and celebrating individuals and institutions that serve as role models to young Africans.
“We identify and honour outstanding institutions, leaders, and role models within the African continent who have made significant impact and distinguished themselves in their various areas of endeavour,” he said.
“It is against that backdrop that we are here to honour the Managing Director/CEO of EEDC and its management and staff.”
Presenting the award, Ozim described Engr. Ekwekwu as a distinguished and selfless leader who has contributed immensely to the service of humanity and the development of the country, noting that his attributes align with the ideals and philosophy associated with Kwame Nkrumah.
“You are an outstanding engineer, a lover of youths with a charismatic personality, and a true son of Africa,” he said.
Responding, Engr. Ekwekwu expressed appreciation to the delegation for the recognition and honour bestowed on him and the organization. He commended the Grow Africa Youth Initiative for its efforts towards promoting the development of the African continent through its various programmes, particularly those targeted at young people.
The EEDC boss emphasized the importance of mentoring and meaningfully engaging the youth to ensure that they remain focused and productive. He encouraged the organization to develop specific programmes and initiatives that could be replicated across the continent to keep young people positively engaged and contribute to their personal and societal development.
