First Disabled/Blind Graduate In C’River, Francis Ashikem To Be Laid To Rest In Obudu

 

The remains of the first disabled/blind graduate, late Mr Francis Ashikem PhD, is to be laid to rest today 1st February 2025, in his family compound, Kakum in Obudu Local Government Area.

Mr. Francis Who holds a Doctor of Philosophy PhD in Business Administration from the prestigious University of Jos, had his Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education (B Ed) in 1986, which made him the first disabled/blind graduate in Cross River State.

In a release made available to TheLumineNews, indicates that his remains will leave Sacred Heart Mortuary, Obudu at 9:00am today February 1st, 2025, for his compound in Kakum, Obudu Local Government Area and will be laid to rest at 10:00am.

Biography of Dr. Ashikem Francis Awhobende
BIRTH/PARENTING
Dr. Ashikem Francis Awhobende is a distinguished Nigerian scholar, educator, and advocate for persons with disabilities. Born on 10th March 1949 into the Family of Pa, Ashikem Agim Ugbong of BEGIAGIM village, kakum community and Ma, Agnes Awhebi Ikwebe of Bebuabong community both from Obudu LGA of Cross River State, Nigeria. Dr. Awhobende is married and blessed with children.
RELIGIOUS LIFE:
Dr. Ashikem Francis Awhobende, was born and baptised into the Catholic faith.
He was baptised by the white missionaries at the Immaculate Conception chaplaincy Enugu,
And until his death he was a strong member, parishioner and supporter of St Theresa the little flower parish ipong.

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND:

After he lost his sight to Missiles (an epidemic without vaccines as at the time) at age five(5) in 1955,
Dr. Awhobende’s educational journey began at the Special Education Centre in Orji River, Enugu State, where he obtained his First School Leaving Certificate in 1972. He proceeded to the College of Immaculate Conception (CIC), Enugu, completing his West African School Certificate (W.A.S.C.) in 1977.
His tertiary education spanned several institutions:
1. University of Jos, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education (B.Ed) in 1986. Making him the 1st Disable/Blind Graduate in Cross River State
2. He also obtained a Master’s Degree in Special Education (M.Ed) from the same university in 1991.
3. Dr. Awhobende crowned his academic pursuits with a Doctorate (Ph.D.) in Business Administration from the same prestigious university
4. He also received a Doctorial Fellowship investiture from the Institute of Human and Natural Resources in 2004.

PROFESSIONAL CAREER:
Dr. Awhobende began his teaching career as an Auxiliary Teacher from 1978 to 1982. He went on to serve as a Permanent Teacher, dedicating 35 years to the civil service from 1986 to 2013. He retired as PSMG 1 Grade level 16, marking the end of a fulfilling career in education.

MEMBERSHIPS AND LEADERSHIP ROLE’S:
Dr. Awhobende has been actively involved in various professional and advocacy groups, including.
1. National Union of Teachers (NUT).
2. National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET), where he once served as President.
3. Nigeria Association of the Blind (NAB), Cross River State Branch, serving as President and Secretary at different times.
4. Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), where he held roles as both National President and State President, and previously as State Vice President.
5. Pioneer Member of the Great Elephant society
7. Member National Union of pensioners
8. Institute of Human and Natural Resources (Fellow)
9. Member Atten Ikeg Age grade

CONTRIBUTIONS AND LEGACY:
Through his work, Dr. Awhobende has significantly contributed to the education and empowerment of persons with disabilities. His leadership and advocacy within organizations such as JONAPWD and NAB underscore his dedication to creating a more inclusive society.

Dr. Awhobende’s life and career are a testament to resilience, academic excellence, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting marginalized communities.

LAST MOMENT:
Dr Awhobende Francis Ashikem, rested I’m the bosom of his creator on the 22nd December, 2024 after battling with a brief illness and was taken care of at the Federal teaching hospital Abakaliki, Ebonyi State , it is indeed painful of the loss and vacuum so far created but we a console by his legacy of humility, love, fairness, equity and justice that he left behind.

HE IS SURVIVED BY:-
Mrs, Ashikem Anthonia – Wife
Mr, Awhobende Jeremiah Unimke – son
Comr, Ashikem Ernest igiewhounimye – son
Master, Awhobende Eugene Beshaundipeye – son
Master, Awhobende Leo Ayiangshieye – son
Lady, Ashikem Angela – Daughter
Miss, Awhobende Agnes Awhebi – Daughter.

Elijah

Development Consultant, Writer, Editor-In-Chief/Publisher @theluminenews.com, Public/ Motivational Speaker, Public Affairs Analyst/Commentator, Social Mobilizer of high repute.

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