ASABA/Nigeria: As the countdown begins to the eagerly anticipated 2024 edition of the Maris Annual Public Service Lecture, it has been confirmed that Rev. Fr. John Konyeke of the Catholic Diocese of Issele-Uku will be present at the occasion, assuming the esteemed role of Father of the Day.
The revelation came from Comrade Fidelis Egugbo, Secretary of the Maris Trust Council (MTC), the organizing body behind this annual event, during a statement made on Sunday in Asaba, Delta State. The Maris Annual Public Service Lecture has long served as a pivotal platform for addressing societal challenges and proposing viable solutions.
Fr. Konyeke’s involvement in the lecture series dates back to its inception, where he has consistently participated either as Father of the Day or as a Discussant. Egugbo emphasized that the decision to invite Fr. Konyeke for the Year 2024 edition was influenced by overwhelming requests from the public, particularly from regular attendees of Maris lectures.
The event, scheduled for Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba, will feature distinguished personalities including Prof. Stella Chinye Chiemeke, Vice Chancellor of the University of Delta, UNIDEL, as the Guest Speaker. Prof. Chiemeke will delve into the topic, ‘Flight Of Talents: Navigating Nigeria’s Brain Drain Predicament.’
Hon. Pastor Jonathan Ukodhiko, the member representing Isoko Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, will preside over the occasion as Chairman, while Lady Roseline Eno Amioku (JP), acting Chairman of the Delta State Civil Service Commission, will grace the event as Mother of the Day.
Notable figures such as Dr. Barry Gbe, the Special Adviser to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, and Chief Philomena Ededey Ugheminaye, former member of the Delta State Universal Basic Education Commission, will also serve as Discussants, adding depth and expertise to the discussions.
Expressing gratitude to the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for his support in ensuring a conducive environment for such gatherings, Egugbo also acknowledged the contributions of past governors, Sen. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa and Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, in making the annual event successful.
Fr. Konyeke’s remarkable journey and contributions were highlighted, including his pivotal role as a spiritual leader and his commitment to humanitarian causes. His presence at the Maris Annual Public Service Lecture serves as a testament to his dedication to societal betterment.
Fr. Konyeke, currently pursuing further studies at the Catholic Institute of West Africa, CIWA, Port Harcourt, has left an indelible mark through his pastoral work, academic pursuits, and community engagement. As the countdown continues to the Year 2024 Maris Annual Public Service Lecture, anticipation grows for the impactful insights and discussions that will unfold under Fr. Konyeke’s esteemed presence.
