In a momentous occasion, Dr. Chijioke Kingsley Ukadike, Head of the Corporate and Strategic Communications Department at the Nigerian Ports Authority, Rivers Port Complex, Port Harcourt, has been honoured with the prestigious Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) Nigeria’s Presidential Appreciation Award.
The recognition, according to the National President CILT, Dr. Mrs Mfon Usoro, is a testament of significant contributions to the logistics and transport sector.
Giving an insight into how the awardees emerged, Usoro stated that “In the past, it used to be the prerogative of the President to nominate the awardees, but this time around, I decided to be more democratic by asking Council members to nominate, while I approve.”
In a chat with our correspondent after receiving the award Dr. Ukadike, a Chartered Fellow of CILT and the current Chairman of the Cross River State Branch, expressed his deep honour upon receiving the award.
He stated that his journey with CILT began in 2001 as a graduate member of the Institute of Logistics and Transport (ILT) UK. Driven by a fervent commitment to professionalism in the Nigerian transport and logistics sector, the NPA spokesman said he later transitioned his membership to CILT Nigeria in 2004.
Ukadike further highlighted his active role in fostering the growth of CILT. Notably, he said he spearheaded the establishment of the Cross River Chapter, serving as its pioneer Chairman in 2019.
He said, under his leadership, the Chapter experienced remarkable growth, with a 200% increase in membership within a year adding that these efforts led to the elevation of the Chapter to a full Branch of CILT in August 2022.
He also highlighted a notable achievement in the Cross River Branch pioneering use of fully electronic elections in 2022, setting a precedent for the National Body’s elections in 2023.
Ukadike expressed gratitude to his employers, the Nigerian Ports Authority, and specifically acknowledged Managing Director Mohammed Bello Koko for support, including sponsorship for his attendance at this year’s National Conference.
Ukadike also thanked CILT’s President, Barr Mfon Usoro, and the entire National Council for the honour, pledging to further contribute to the institute’s mission of promoting best practices and professionalism in logistics and transport.
