By Uzo Ugwunze
The Chairman New Auto Spare Parts Market Nkpor, Chief Stephen Ofoleh, Assistant Inspector General of Police, AIG Abayomi Oladapo, Hon Ifeanyi Ibezi (Ochiagha Idemili), Lamido Foundation and Obiukwu Foundation have been honored with prestigious merit and outstanding awards by the Faculty of Arts, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University COOU, Igbariam campus.
Chief Ofoleh and four other Awadees made the final nomination list as award recipients out of about 20 initial nominations for the Faculty’s 6th International Conference, 2026 themed “Arts/Humanities, Artificial intelligence (AI), Biotechnological and Human Enhancement in Nation building” which held at COOU, Igbariam campus earlier this year.
Presentation of the award to Chief Ofoleh eventually took place during the New parts Market Nkpor weekly prayers on February 19, 2026 from the COOU delegation led by Prof. Cynado Ezeogidi- Dean Faculty of Arts flanked by Dr. Chukwuemeka Iloanya -HOD Philosophy, Dr. Ozioma Uchime- Former HOD International Studies and History and Dr. Sir Chijioke Okoye- Coordinator University Parents Forum and LOC Chairman.
According to Prof. Ezeogidi, Chief Ofoleh was a special guest of the 6th International Conference of the Faculty of Arts, COOU which held on 3 to Friday 6th February, 2026 but was unavoidably absent from the conference which attracted dignitaries across various continents.
“Ofoleh was unanimously nominated for a Platinum Leadership Award by the Faculty of Arts, COOU.
The choice of his nomination is owed to his wealth of experience, silent but huge Philanthropic gestures and Human Capital Development which aligns well with the University’s 3 Vs of Value, Viability and Visibility, and speaks to the urgent need for fresh values and new knowledge systems to reposition our nation towards sustainable development.
“We believe that presenting you with this award will not only honor your achievements but also serve as an inspiration to others who are striving to make a positive difference in our society”, he said.
In his response, Ofoleh thanked God for the Platinum Leadership Award, saying that another feather has been added to the plethora of awards in his archive. “To whom much is given much is expected. This is a challenge that will spur me into living a more impactful life”.
“Moreso, we are collaborating with COOU, Igbariam campus in the advocacy for businessmen to further their education by taking up part time academic courses in the University. The Continuing Education Program CEP is now 5 years for those with O’ Level certificates and 4 years for those with OND/NCE certificates who can apply through Direct Entry,” said Ofoleh.
The duo of Vice Chairman New Auto Spare Parts Market Nkpor, Hon. Sir Josephat Ekwedike KSM and the Market Secretary General, Chief Uche Nwankwo eulogized Ofoleh popularly called ‘Award’ by his admirers, saying that he has multiple awards as his nickname ‘Award’ implies.
They further urged the traders in the market to have confidence in Chief Ofoleh because their Chairman is determined to transform the New parts Market hence, the multiple awards and recognition given to him by both the University and people who know his capabilities.
Uzo is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
