Urum Kalu Eke, affectionately known as UK Eke, recently marked his 60th birthday with a dual celebration: a reflection on a life well-lived and the launch of a biography chronicling his impactful journey. The event, held in Lagos, drew a diverse crowd of family, friends, colleagues, and well-wishers, all eager to honor a man known for his selflessness, professionalism, and dedication to making a positive difference. The atmosphere was filled with heartfelt tributes and accolades, painting a vivid picture of Eke’s influence across various spheres of his life. From his professional achievements to his personal connections and philanthropic endeavors, the celebration served as a testament to the enduring impact of a life committed to service and excellence.
The centerpiece of the celebration was the unveiling of “IMPACT – A Life of Urum Kalu Eke,” a biography that delves into the multi-faceted life of the former Group Managing Director of FBN Holdings Plc. Olufemi Awoyemi, the chief reviewer, lauded the book for its clear and engaging prose, highlighting its exploration of Eke’s life through four key lenses: personal experiences, professional trajectory, community involvement, and unwavering faith. Awoyemi noted that the book encapsulates six decades of Eke’s life, capturing the essence of a man deeply committed to his principles and renowned for his impactful contributions. He further emphasized the book’s intriguing title, perfectly reflecting Eke’s well-known traits of professionalism, meticulousness, and the significant influence he wields in his chosen endeavors.
Awoyemi’s review painted a compelling picture of Eke’s professional journey, drawing parallels to the resilience and tenacity often associated with his Abiriba heritage. He described Eke as a warrior in the fiercely competitive Nigerian financial services industry, someone who has courageously confronted social prejudices, tackled professional incompetence, and steered organizations away from stagnation. These powerful metaphors vividly portray Eke’s unwavering commitment to upholding high standards and driving positive change throughout his career. The review served not just as a summary of the book but also as a poignant tribute to Eke’s character and accomplishments.
The birthday celebration and book launch attracted a distinguished gathering of prominent figures from various sectors. Among the attendees were Olumide Akpata, former gubernatorial candidate of Edo State under the Labour Party; Ernest Ebi, former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria; Emeritus Professor Anya Anya; and Dr. ABC Orjiakor, Founder and former Chairman of Seplat Energy. The presence of such esteemed individuals further underscored the respect and admiration Eke commands within influential circles. Their participation transformed the event into a significant networking opportunity, bringing together leaders from different fields to celebrate a shared connection with the man of the hour.
The guest list also included Chief Alex Okafor, Group Chairman of Chicason Industries Ltd.; Alhaji Lateef Bakare, former Partner at Deloitte; and Kyari Bukar, Chairman of the Board of Development Bank of Nigeria, among many other notable personalities. The diverse representation of sectors, from finance and energy to manufacturing and consulting, reflected the breadth of Eke’s influence and the wide network of relationships he has cultivated throughout his career. This impressive assembly of dignitaries highlighted the significance of the occasion and served as a testament to Eke’s standing within the business and social communities.
The event served as a fitting tribute to Urum Kalu Eke, celebrating not only his 60th birthday but also the launch of a book that encapsulates his impactful life. The gathering provided a platform for sharing anecdotes, expressing gratitude, and acknowledging the significant contributions Eke has made throughout his career and within his community. The celebration underscored the importance of recognizing and appreciating individuals who dedicate themselves to making a positive difference, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations. Eke’s story, as recounted in his biography and through the heartfelt tributes shared during the event, serves as an inspiring example of a life well-lived and the profound impact one individual can have.
