Member representing Isoko Federal Constituency at the National Assembly, Hon. Jonathan Ukodhiko, Thursday, lauded teachers in Nigeria and all over the world for their role in nation-building.
Ukodhiko gave the commendation when he played host to his secondary school teacher, Chief Stephen Egebule at his Erawha-Owhe country home in Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State.
The retired teacher, Chief Egebule taught the House of Representatives member Agricultural Science at James Welch Grammar School, Emevor in Isoko North Local Government Area between 1985 to 1987.
The elated Federal lawmaker said that teachers were the bedrock of the development of any nation as no other profession can metamorphose without the input of teachers.
While paying glowing tributes to the veteran teacher, Ukodhiko commended the retired Agricultural Science teacher, Chief Egebule and all his secondary teachers for the great job they did in making him who he is, professionally and politically.
In his words, “Chief Egebule was among the quality teachers who taught and instilled discipline in us at the famous James Welch Grammar School in Emevor.
“I must confess today is a memorable day for me, seeing my dear teacher. As I reminisced, I can’t help but appreciate Chief Egebule and other redoubtable teachers for the pains they took to make sure that we did the right things.
“I admire Chief Stephen Egebule a great deal. I hold him in awe. He was my ’Iwe’ House master. He put in his all, physically and mentally to ensure we got the best of secondary education at JWGS.”
The Isoko Federal lawmaker emphasized the role of teachers in the development of a nation and humanity, acknowledging their sacrifices and commitment, called for a better welfare packages for the Nigerian teachers.
“Teachers deserves better. And the welfare of teachers should be taken more seriously by all levels of Governments. As a federal lawmaker, I’ll continue to facilitate and support laws and policies that prioritize the welfare of our teachers.
Read also: FAAC: Delta’s N48b allocation surpasses Rivers, A’Ibom, Bayelsa, Lagos, Kano, others in May
“I am eternally grateful to Chief Stephen Egebule and other of my teachers, from primary to tertiary teachers, for their roles in shaping my life, teaching me with missionary zeal. I do obeisance to them all.” Hon. Ukodhiko added.
Earlier, Chief Stephen Egebule was full of praise for Engr. Ukodhiko whom he described as an “exceptionally brilliant student, prodigious and very meticulous” in his days at James Welch Grammar School, Emevor.
“I feel proud to know my dear student has accomplished a lot. I congratulate him on his victory as a Member of the Federal House of Representatives at Abuja.
“I must admit, Joe Ukodhiko is affable and very passionate about service, serving people. It’s a thing of joy to me and other teachers of the JWGS, our own, a student we mentored and taught is presently serving Isoko-nation at the House of Representatives.
“We are pleased he is giving a good account of himself already as a legislator and representative of the people. We will continue pray for him even as we feel proud of him. Yes, I’m happy that I am here today Thursday. It is an honour.” He added.
