The Chairman, Board of Governors of the Tower of Ivory Schools, D.I.G. Udom U. Ekpoudom (Rtd) has been celebrated with the prestigious Africa Award of Excellence by an internationally recognised group, Centre For Media Connect (CMC)
The award, was in recognition of his outstanding services in the Nigerian Police Force and humanitarian services and was presented to him during a CMC Gladiators Team visit led by, the President, Ambassador Cornel Udofia in his office at the Tower of Ivory Schools, Ediene Abak last Friday.
Ambassador Cornel Udofia, Publisher of the Gladiators magazine who also doubles as the Convener for Africa Award for Excellence presented the award to D.I.G Udom. U. Ekpoudom (Rtd) and described as an highly respected retired police leader with a stellar dedication, leadership, and commitment to humanity and development of the society.
In a citation reading session, a comprehensive overview of his illustrious career, tracing his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a renowned law enforcement leader were highlighted including his academic achievements, professional development, exceptional leadership skills, and commitment to justice, as well as his notable accomplishments in combating crime.
Ambassador Cornel Udofia, delivered a tribute to Udom Ekpoudom, describing him as a shining example of African/American leadership and excellence.
He praised Ekpoudom’s commitment to public service and devotion to duty to serve humanity which have been noticed by many, and his achievements show his exceptional leadership qualities.
“Looking at so many local and International awards he has received, it shows that he is an exceptional leader. We pray that our award will also spur him to do more for our country and humanity,” Cornel said.
In his response, D.I.G Udom expressed his gratitude to the group for being chosen for the award and emphasized that he has dedicated the award to his leader.
“I dedicate this award to my leader, the Senate President Godswill Obot Akpabio.
“He played a major role in my career by bringing me to Akwa Ibom state which has led to receiving many awards and recognitions ” he remarked.
Udom recounted his encounters in the Police Force, noting that a senior colleague in the force encouraged him.
“Having attended a prestigious University, my family never liked the idea that I should become a police officer but my senior colleague encouraged me that I will be a great force” for others” he explained.
He noted that during his active service years, he was consistently deployed to places notorious for high levels of crime and insecurity.
“I always remained fearless in my commitment to provide security, peace and justice despite serving in criminal vicinity.”
In a further statement, Ekpoudom referred to the honor as “a dream come true” highlighting his becoming a police officer as the will of God in his life.
“Having received a lot of meritorious awards stemming from my services in the Police Force, I have to agree that being a policeman was a call from God”.
He assured the award will encourage him to more for his people and the society.
