By Philip Eke, Yenagoa
Hon Gentle Emelah, Bayelsa State Education Commissioner second left, Prof Etebu and others in a group pix
The Executive Secretary of the Bayelsa State Education Development Trust Fund (EDTF), Prof. Ebimieowei Etebu, has marked his 60th birthday with a book launch and humanitarian outreach.
The celebration, which drew government officials, lawmakers, academics, education stakeholders, religious and traditional leaders, family and friends, featured the unveiling of his new book, ABC of Molecular Biology, and visits to the Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital (NDUTH), Okolobiri, and GloryLand Children’s Home, Opolo.
The event had in attendance representatives of the Bayelsa State Government, members of the State House of Assembly, education administrators and academics from tertiary institutions, among other dignitaries.
A major highlight was the unveiling of the book, which explores fundamental concepts in molecular biology and their applications in medicine, agriculture, food production and forensic science.
The book was reviewed by Prof. Charles Adetunji of the Federal University of Agriculture and Development Studies and unveiled by Prof. Adias.
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Speaking at the event, Prof. Etebu described molecular biology as critical to understanding life, noting that DNA, RNA and proteins play fundamental roles in the development and functioning of living organisms.
He said the discipline has wide-ranging applications and called for increased investment, research and public awareness of molecular biology in Nigeria.
As part of the birthday activities, Prof. Etebu extended support to vulnerable groups.
At NDUTH, Okolobiri, he presented cash and other items to the first baby born on September 5, his birthday.
He also visited GloryLand Children’s Home, Opolo, where he donated gift items to the children.
In her goodwill message, the Executive Chairman of the Teachers Registration and Certification Board (TTRCB), Dr. Peremoboere Stella Ugolo, described Etebu as a resourceful academic with strong problem-solving skills and commitment to education development.
Ugolo, who recalled her longstanding working relationship with the celebrant, said his contributions to committees and policy discussions have impacted the state’s education sector, describing him as humble, intelligent and passionate about continuous learning.
Also speaking, the Head of Service of Bayelsa State, Dr. Biobelemoye Charles Sawyer Ebiye, described Etebu as an accomplished academic, pastor, mentor and administrator whose influence extends beyond the university community.
He commended Etebu’s leadership at the EDTF, noting that the Fund’s interventions in tertiary institutions, schools and technical colleges have strengthened the education sector and expanded opportunities for students.
In an emotional tribute, Etebu’s wife described him as a loving, patient, considerate and supportive husband, thanking God for his life and praying for continued strength, good health and wisdom.
Reflecting on his 60 years in an interview with New Waves, Prof. Etebu said simplicity, forgiveness, peaceful coexistence and family values have shaped his life.
“Learn to let go. Whatever is yours will be yours. Don’t make life unnecessarily complicated,” he said.
He advocated fairness, equity and justice in human relationships and urged people to accommodate the imperfections of others.
He described family as the pillar of a fulfilled life, advising people to cherish their spouses, children and loved ones, create time to laugh and bond, and maintain a strong relationship with God.
The Commissioner for Education, Dr. Gentle Emelah, and King Dakolo were among dignitaries who delivered goodwill messages, praising Etebu’s contributions to academia, education administration and community development.
The event ended with prayers and goodwill messages in celebration of his 60 years and service to education and humanity.
In his vote of thanks, Prof. Etebu expressed gratitude to God for the gift of life and thanked his family, spiritual leaders, EDTF board members, government officials, education stakeholders, academics, church members, traditional leaders and friends for honouring him.
He specially appreciated his wife and children for their love and support, as well as members of the medical and laboratory science community for their contributions to his professional journey.
