The Governor of Abia State, Okezie Ikpeazu, Phd has rejoiced with Elder Statesman, Engr., Sir Augustine Alaribe on the occasion of his 90th birthday.

The Governor describes Engr. Alaribe as a shinning light to younger generation of Abians and one of the finest electronic engineers who pioneered broadcast engineering in Nigeria.

According to the Governor, the place of Engr Alabribe in the Hall of Fame of our people is assured”.

“From his pioneering broadcast engineering roles at the then Nigeria Broadcast Corporation (NBC), he answered the call to serve his people during the Nigeria Civil War and was one of the brains behind the activities of the now defunct Radio Biafra. He was a key part of the team that ensured that the transmissions of the then Radio Biafra remained on air throughout the war period”. The Governor states.

“Upon the creation of Imo State in 1976”, the Governor continues, Engr. Alaribe was appointed founding Director General of the Imo Broadcasting Service (IBS) Owerri by the first Military Governor of the old Imo State, then Navy Commander Ndubuisi Kanu (Rtd). It is on record that he laid the foundation and indeed oversaw the establishment of the IBS Owerri then, which was the only Radio Station available to our people at the time and set up a training program which trained and produced those who are referred to as veterans in the broadcast industry today”.

“Even in retirement, he has remained committed to the public good and the service of God through the Catholic Church. Engr Alaribe remains a deep reservoir of knowledge from which I drink regularly”. The Governor concludes.

Governor Ikpeazu is grateful to God for preserving the life of Engr Sir Alaribe and wishes him a wonderful 90th birthday.