By Ewere Okonta, PhD
08037383019
eob.org.ng
Today, I celebrate a remarkable gentleman, an erudite scholar, administrator, teacher, thespian and, above all, a genuinely good man - Dr. Iyamah Chijioke Yankson, Dean, Directorate of Students Affairs, University of Delta, Agbor (UNIDEL).
Dr. Yankson is one of those rare personalities who cannot be conveniently placed in one box. He is a scholar in the classroom, an administrator in the office, a thespian on stage, a devoted family man at home - and, surprisingly to many, a professional auto mechanic in the workshop!
Yes, you read that correctly.
I know this personally because Dr. Yankson has serviced my car, and he did it to my great satisfaction. That experience did something to my perception of him. My admiration and respect for him increased significantly. I discovered that beyond the academic titles and administrative responsibilities is a handy, practical and resourceful man who understands that sometimes, the solution to a problem requires more than talking about it.
That is Yankson for you.
He is the kind of guy you can call when you are on a hot seat. Somehow, he will examine the problem, think through it and find a way forward. Whether it is an academic matter, an administrative challenge, a mechanical problem or simply one of those difficult moments in life, Yankson has this remarkable ability to remain useful.
And that, perhaps, is one of his greatest qualities: he is useful.
He is versatile without making noise about it, knowledgeable without being intimidating, and dependable without demanding applause.
As Dean of the Directorate of Students Affairs at UNIDEL, he occupies a position that requires patience, maturity, diplomacy and a genuine understanding of people. His experience as a teacher and scholar complements his administrative responsibilities, while his theatrical background perhaps gives him that extra ability to understand people, situations and human emotions.
But beyond the titles, positions and accomplishments is Yankson the friend - loyal to the people and causes he believes in. When he considers you a friend, you can count on him. His loyalty is not merely verbal; it is demonstrated in practical ways.
And then there is the family man; the man whose greatest achievements cannot be fully captured by academic degrees, official positions or professional accomplishments. Family remains an important part of the Yankson story.
Today, therefore, I celebrate the whole man: the scholar, the administrator, the teacher, the thespian, the mechanic, the problem-solver, the friend and the family man.
Dear Dr. Yankson, as you celebrate another year today, may God continue to enlarge your coast, strengthen you, preserve your health, bless your home and reward your labour.
May doors of greater opportunities open for you. May your wisdom increase, your influence expand and your usefulness to humanity multiply.
May you continue to find favour with God and men. May you never lack genuine friends, faithful helpers and people who will stand by you as you have stood by others.
And may the years ahead bring you greater accomplishments, deeper fulfilment, abundant joy, peace of mind and countless reasons to smile.
Happy birthday, Dr. Iyamah Chijioke Yankson.
Today, the birthday blessings are all yours.
Celebrate yourself, dear friend. You deserve it!
Dr Ewere Okonta is the CEO of EOB Media, a family-values advocate, teacher and writer. He writes from the Department of Business Administration, University of Delta, Agbor.
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