Reflections on the 109th Inaugural Lecture by Prof. Ebele Stella Nwokoye
Yesterday, 3rd July 2025, I attended the 109th Inaugural Lecture delivered by Prof. Ebele Stella Nwokoye, titled:
🟢 “The Hidden Economics of Crisis: Who Pays When Nature Sends the Bill?”
Her lecture opened our eyes to how environmental crises quietly drain economies and punish the vulnerable- the women.
But beyond her brilliant ideas, what struck me most was the massive support and love she received. So many people came together despite the rain, to honour her. Watching this, I realised it was not by chance—it was the reward of her years of mentorship, kindness, and integrity.
From this, I learnt 9 powerful lessons about mentorship—fittingly linked to the last digit 9 of the 109th lecture:
1️⃣ Power of Mentorship – Unity
Mentorship unites hearts and generations in a bond of shared purpose.
2️⃣ Proceeds from Mentorship – Support
When you invest in others, support will always come back to you when you need it most.
3️⃣ Principle in Mentorship – Humility
Humility attracts respect. She treated everyone with dignity, regardless of their status.
4️⃣ Prospect of Mentorship – Growth
Mentorship unlocks growth for both mentor and mentee.
5️⃣ Pragmatic Mentorship – Excellent Mentees
True mentorship is practical—producing mentees who embody excellence.
6️⃣ Problem of Mentorship – Discomfort
Guiding others means sometimes challenging them and confronting hard truths.
7️⃣ Pursuit in Mentorship – Excellence
Always inspire your mentees to pursue excellence in all things.
8️⃣ Praying for the Mentees – Progress
Mentorship is not just professional—it is caring, hoping, and praying for others to succeed.
9️⃣ People to Be Mentored – The Simpleton
No one should be overlooked. Even those called “simpletons” deserve guidance and opportunity.
The number 109 itself speaks volumes:
✅ 1 – Mentorship is the No. 1 factor for success.
✅ 0 – Without mentorship, followership is nothing, it is Zero.
✅ 9 – Like 9 months of birth, mentorship delivers greatness in due time.
🌟 Prof. Nwokoye’s example proves that it is good to be good.
May we all learn to lift others and leave footprints of kindness wherever we go.
Just a Reflection with Idowu
