News

Zobis Cable CEO, John Ezeobi Visits Alma Mater, Vows to Transform it in 2 Months

Published

11 months ago

June 24, 2024

Joel Ajayi

Renowned Anambra industrialist and CEO of Zobis Cables Ltd, Engr. John Ezeobi, on Wednesday, 19th June,2024, paid a surprise visit to his alma mater, Ede Secondary School in Okoti, Odekpe, Ogbaru LGA of Anambra State, to assess the school’s infrastructure.

Ezeobi, who attended the school from 2001 to 2003 and served as the Senior Prefect, was touched by the decaying infrastructure, particularly the school’s vulnerability to flooding during the rainy season. He said he was approached by the school’s owners to buy the property, but he declined, wanting to preserve the institutional legacy. He equally stated that the school harbours some part of his childhood memories and most importantly shaped him into what he is today in the society.

Despite the school being a private school, Ezeobi was moved to intervene, as the deteriorating infrastructure and environmental challenges posed significant obstacles to learning.

He has planned a two-phase project, which includes rebuilding classroom blocks, constructing modern toilets, and implementing flood control measures.

The first phase of the project is expected to be completed within two months, after which the company will move on to the second stage which is expected to gulp several million of naira.

The industrialist expressed optimism that the impact on the school’s 350 students and new enrollments will have a positive effect on the community.

The project is being carried out under the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative of Ezeobi’s company, Zobis Cables Industries Ltd.

The school’s administration has commended Ezeobi’s generosity, expressing excitement and a sense of rejuvenation as the institution returns to life through the efforts of one of its alumni.

Ede Secondary School was founded in 1994 by Chief Dr. Elder John Ugboma Okei (Ede 1 of Odekpe).

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Foreign news

Diplomatic Community in Nigeria Joins Italian Envoy in National Day Celebration

Published

19 hours ago

June 2, 2025

The Gleamer

By Joel Ajayi

It was a vibrant evening of joy, connection, and cultural celebration as the Acting Ambassador of Italy to Nigeria, Mr. Iacopo Foti, hosted members of Nigeria’s diplomatic community in Abuja to commemorate Italy’s National Day, la Festa della Repubblica.

Held in the heart of Nigeria’s capital, the event was a memorable gathering marked by laughter, heartfelt exchanges, and a shared appreciation for the enduring ties between Italy and Nigeria.
In his address, Mr. Foti described the occasion as a time to reflect on the core values that define Italy: liberty, democracy, justice, and the enduring creativity and resilience of its people.

“It is a day to celebrate our rich history, our unparalleled cultural heritage, and our contributions to art, science, and innovation,” he said. “But beyond Italy, today we also celebrate the strong and growing bonds between the Republic of Italy and the Federal Republic of Nigeria — our economies, our cultures, and above all, our people.”

The ambassador emphasized the depth of the bilateral relationship, recalling that diplomatic ties between Italy and Nigeria were established on February 20, 1960. He noted that since the 1970s and 1980s, Nigeria has become a second home for many Italians who have contributed significantly across various sectors.

“We are proud to be part of this welcoming and vibrant society,” he said. “I have personally witnessed the dedication, entrepreneurial spirit, and warmth of the Nigerian people, as well as their hospitality toward the Italian community.”

Looking ahead, Mr. Foti expressed optimism about the future of Italy-Nigeria relations, pointing to untapped opportunities for deeper economic cooperation, technological collaboration, and cultural and academic exchange.

“Nigeria is a cultural powerhouse, a leader in Africa and globally in art, literature, and film,” he remarked. “Italy, with its deep-rooted cultural legacy, is eager to expand its engagement with Africa, and particularly with Nigeria.”

He acknowledged the growing Nigerian interest in Italian culture — from fashion and design to cinema and tourism — while noting that Italy hosts the third-largest Nigerian diaspora community globally, after the United States and the United Kingdom.

The ambassador also highlighted the countries’ cooperation on global challenges such as climate change, peace and security, migration, and human trafficking. Both nations are signatories to the Paris Agreement and active participants in global policy dialogues.

“Our relationship is built on mutual respect and understanding,” he noted. “We see this in our economic ties, cultural exchanges, love for football, and the increasing number of Nigerians who study and travel to Italy, as well as Italians drawn to Nigeria’s rich history and culture.”

He pointed out the many shared qualities between Italians and Nigerians, from strong family values and communal bonds to a vibrant fashion industry and a dynamic film sector.

“We are both historically migrant societies that have achieved success abroad while keeping close ties to our homeland,” Mr. Foti said. “We share humor, resilience, and a deep appreciation for life’s ironies.”

Addressing the issue of stereotypes, he cited renowned Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, saying: “The single story creates stereotypes, and the problem with stereotypes is not that they are untrue, but that they are incomplete.”

He concluded by expressing gratitude for the support of Nigerian authorities and all who attended the celebration.

“On behalf of the Italian government and the people of Italy, I extend my sincere thanks to everyone who joined us. Your presence is a testament to the strength of our friendship and our shared future.”

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