A Senior Lecturer in the Fine and Applied Arts department of Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu Alike, Dr. Samuel Ogba Echem has expressed gratitude to the government of Abia State for honouring him with the award of Ambassador of Arts.
He was among those honoured on Tuesday at the end-of-year get-together of the Department of culture in the ministry of information and culture in the state.
The award is in recognition of Dr. Echem’s contributions towards the promotion of culture in the society.
He teaches graphics design and photography at the Alex Ekwueme Federal University and expected to be an associate professor in coming days.
Speaking with ABN TV on Tuesday after receiving the award, he expressed gratitude to the ministry, saying the recognition is an indication that his modest contribution towards the development of arts is being noted.
Dr. Echem, a former lecturer in Abia State University Uturu has participated in several exhibitions within and outside the country.
He also has several journals to his credit, both solo and group publications.
He also expressed satisfaction to see many students who graduated under him become top officials in the state’s civil service.
Dr Sammie Echem is the Chairman Cultural Committee of Ebem Ohafia Development Union. He organises a yearly lecture series – “Knowing your root
He is happily married to Julie Ugonma Sam-Echem and the union is blessed with three lovely children, Princess Elena Ugonma, Prince Eduardo Echem Queen Isabela Nnenna.