By Ewere Okonta
08037383019
www.ewereokontablog.org.ng
The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCON), Ika North East Chapter, recently celebrated National Youth Day with great enthusiasm at Owa Oyibu. The event, marked by joy and camaraderie, also served as an opportunity to honor outstanding individuals for their notable contributions to youth development in the region. Among the awardees was Dr. Monday Ijeoma Okowa, a distinguished banker and academic.
Dr. Okowa, a seasoned professional currently serving as a Regional Manager with Premium Trust Bank, was recognized for his significant role in promoting youth empowerment and development. He was ably represented at the ceremony by Dr. Solomon Egbule, a lecturer at the Department of Entrepreneurship and Business Innovation at the University of Delta, Agbor.
In his acceptance speech delivered by Dr. Egbule, Dr. Okowa was lauded as a role model and a trailblazer in the academic and banking sectors. Dr. Egbule highlighted that Dr. Okowa holds the distinction of being the first PhD graduate from the Department of Accounting at Delta State University, Abraka. He thanked NYCON, Ika North East Chapter, for recognizing Dr. Okowa’s commitment to excellence and his invaluable support for youth initiatives.
A Brief Profile of Dr. Ijeoma Monday Okowa (PhD)
Early Life and Education
Born on May 4, 1972, into the family of Sylvester and Grace Okowa of Idumu-Ebor Quarters, Owa Alero in Ika North-East Local Government Area of Delta State, Dr. Okowa’s journey has been one of resilience and commitment to academic excellence. He began his education at Eghoma Primary School, Owa-Alero, earning his First School Leaving Certificate in 1983. He later attended Owa-Alero Secondary Commercial School, where he obtained his Senior School Certificate in 1990.
Dr. Okowa pursued his passion for accounting at Auchi Polytechnic, where he earned a Higher National Diploma (HND) in 1996. His thirst for knowledge led him to Delta State University, Abraka, where he completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration in 2005 and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in 2007.
He further advanced his academic career by earning a Master of Science (MSc) in Accounting from Imo State University, Owerri, in 2018. His academic journey culminated in a PhD in Accounting from Delta State University in February 2024, making him the first doctoral graduate of the institution’s Accounting Department.
Professional Accomplishments
Dr. Okowa is a highly accomplished professional with membership in several prestigious organizations, including:
- Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN).
- Associate of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN).
- Associate Member of the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM).
- Associate Member of the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN).
Career Highlights
Dr. Okowa began his professional journey in 1998 as a Senior Accounts Supervisor at John Holt Engineering, Warri. In 2001, he joined Zenith Bank PLC, where he served with distinction before moving to Oceanic Bank PLC in 2005. He later returned to Zenith Bank and rose to the position of Senior Manager before joining Premium Trust Bank in June 2022 as a Regional Manager.
A Family Man and Role Model
Dr. Okowa is married to Mrs. Ngozi Okowa, and their union is blessed with four wonderful children. His dedication to both his family and professional life makes him a shining example for the youth of Ika North East and beyond.
The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCON), Ika North East Chapter, has set a commendable precedent by recognizing individuals like Dr. Monday Okowa, whose contributions inspire and uplift the community. His recognition serves as a call to action for others to emulate his commitment to excellence, leadership, and youth empowerment.
As the award ceremony drew to a close, the atmosphere was filled with hope and enthusiasm for the future, fueled by the inspiring stories of awardees like Dr. Monday Ijeoma Okowa.
Ewere Okonta is the CEO of EOB Media. He writes from the Department of Business Administration, University of Delta, Agbor.