Nigeria’s education and business communities are set to converge in Lagos on May 8 for a two-day centenary celebration in honour of renowned scholar Prof. Otonti Nduka, as the country reflects on his enduring contributions to values-based education and national development.
The event, scheduled to hold at the Rivers State University auditorium, will mark Nduka’s 100th birthday and is expected to attract key figures from academia, government, industry, and civil society.
Nduka, a former president of the Nigeria Academy of Education, has been widely recognised for his role in promoting ethical learning and intellectual discipline in Nigeria’s education system. He was also named a Distinguished Professor of the Century by the National Universities Commission.
The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, is billed to attend as Special Guest of Honour, while the Governor of Rivers State, Siminialayi Fubara, will serve as Chief Host.
A keynote address will be delivered by economist and former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Kingsley Moghalu. His lecture, titled “Trends and Challenges in Upholding Values Education in Nigeria,” is expected to examine the decline of ethical standards amid globalisation and technological change, while proposing reforms to strengthen integrity and critical thinking in the nation’s curriculum.
As part of the celebration, businessman Grant Offor will lead the launch of the Otonti Nduka Foundation for Values Education Endowment Fund, a N5 billion initiative aimed at supporting scholarships, teacher training, and research in Nigerian universities.
The event will also feature the presence of legal luminary Kanu Agabi, a former Attorney General of the Federation, who is expected to share insights from his career.
According to organisers led by Prof. Hilary Wordu, the celebration will begin with a national conference focusing on themes such as “Reviving Values in a Digital Age” and “Ethical Leadership for National Development.” The second day will feature cultural displays, including music, traditional performances, poetry, and a gala dinner.
Highlights of the programme include the unveiling of Nduka’s centenary portrait and the presentation of a curated anthology on Nigerian educational philosophy.
With over 1,500 participants expected, the centenary celebration is seen as a reflection of renewed national attention on values education as a tool for addressing corruption and inequality, while honouring a scholar whose legacy continues to shape Nigeria’s intellectual and moral landscape.
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