By Amaechi Agbo

The Enugu State Governor, His Excellency, Dr Peter Ndubuisi Mbah today paid glowing tributes to the founder of Nigeria’s First State owned University of Science and Technology, ESUT. Chief Jim Nwobodo

Dr Mbah on Saturday extolled the enduring leadership impacts of the former Governor of the old Anambra State His Excellency, Senator Jim Ifeanyichukwu Nwobodo who marked his 86th birthday today, May 9, 2025

In his goodwill message to celebrate the Octagenrian, the Governor said that despite leaving office as Anambra State Governor over 40 years ago, Chief Nwobodo’s legacies are still felt in Anambra, Enugu and Ebonyi States.

“There are some lives whose impact speaks louder than words ever can, and His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Jim Nwobodo, is one of them.

“At 86, his journey remains a constant reminder that leadership and service are not defined by a season, but by a lifetime of dedication to people and society.

“Today, we celebrate a statesman, a bridge builder, and a man whose legacy continues to stand tall decades after his time in office. Across Enugu, Anambra, and parts of present-day Ebonyi, the imprint of his administration is still visible, a testament to visionary leadership that outlives its era.

“We are proud to continue building on foundations laid by leaders like him,” Gov Mbah said.

He congratulated the “birthday boy” on his auspicious day and prayed God for continued blessings upon him.

“On behalf of my family, the Government, and the good people of Enugu State, I warmly congratulate Senator Jim Nwobodo on his 86th birthday.

” May God continue to bless him with strength, peace, good health, and many more years of wisdom and service

The Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) was established on July 30, 1980. Originally founded as the Anambra State University of Technology (ASUTECH) by Chief Dr. Jim Ifeanyichukwu Nwobodo who was the First Executive Governor of the State. It was the first state-owned university of technology in Nigeria with “Technology for Service” as its motto

However , following the creation of Enugu State in 1991, it became the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT).

The university was designed to be a center for technological advancement, with its main campus currently located in Ebeano City, Enugu State. Hon, Justice Anthony Aniagolu was appointed the pro-chancellor and chairman of the governing council with Prof. Julius Onuorah Onah as the Vice-Chancellor.