Peter Obi crowned ‘Philosopher King of the Decade’

Mr. Peter Obi, the 2023 Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party (LP), was on Friday, November 17, 2023, presented the star award of “Philosopher King of the Decade.”

The award was presented to the former two-term Governor of Anambra State at the UNESCO World Philosophy Day event held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.

Speaking at the occasion, Mr. Obi, a Philosophy graduate of the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) underscored the necessity for cultivating individuals grounded in ethical values.

He stressed the need for ethical responsibility to ensure technology’s accessibility, tackle inequalities, champion digital equity, safeguard data privacy, and ensure equitable resource distribution.

Focusing on the conference’s theme, “The Human of the Future and the Future of the Human”, Obi delved into profound inquiries regarding humanity’s trajectory, drawing inspiration from Socrates’ timeless adage, “an unexamined life is not worth living.”

Acknowledging substantial technological advancements like biotechnology, genetic engineering, reproductive health, and smartphones, Obi anticipated even more captivating inventions in the future. However, he emphasized the vital need to intertwine ethical considerations with these innovations.

Expressing concern, Obi lamented how certain technological innovations, notably BIVAS, intended to simplify election operations, turned into a nightmare in Nigeria due to erroneous indices and assumptions by citizens of the country.

Prof. Okey Ikechukwu, the lead paper presenter, emphasized the pivotal role of humans as the primary resource of nations.

He advocated ethical stewardship alongside technological advancements, urging the integration of critical thinking, creativity, and global awareness into education for a progressive future.

He urged a collective embrace of wisdom, compassion, and commitment to steer technology for the greater good of humanity, fostering progress in harmony with human values.

In his welcome address, Prof. Arinze Agbanusi, Head of the Department of Philosophy, highlighted philosophy’s esteemed status as the “Queen of all Sciences,” justifying the celebration of World Philosophy Day. He described the event as a platform to brainstorm on vital issues aimed at fostering interpersonal and intrapersonal relationships, social cohesion, and human development.

Prof. Charles Esimone, Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University and Chief Host of the event, expressed gratitude to all attendees, affirming the university’s ongoing leadership in intellectual discussions and research.

Mr. Valentine Ozigbo, Chairman of the event, encouraged both students and all Nigerians to embrace hard work and ethical values for Nigeria’s collective advancement.

The climax of the event was the conferment of the “Philosopher King of the Decade” award on Mr. Obi.

Other recipients of different categories of awards were: Okey Ikechukwu, Valentine Ozigbo, Victor Umeh, Ifeanyi Uba, Joseph Ikechebelu, Godalex Ezeani, Bona Christus Umeogu, Mike Udah, among others.

The event welcomed attendees including students, lecturers, and individuals from various walks of life.