The Obio/Akpor Local Government Council on Thursday, November 13, 2025, joined the rest of the world to mark the World Quality Day Celebration, held at the Council Secretariat Hall, Rumuodomaya.The event, with the theme “Quality: Think Differently – Building a Culture of Excellence Among Our Youth,” brought together pupils, educators, and stakeholders to promote the values of excellence, innovation, and discipline.
In his welcome address, the Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Hon. Dr Gift Worlu, described the event as an opportunity to renew the collective commitment to quality and positive transformation, particularly among young people.
“Today, we gather not only to commemorate a global event but to renew our shared commitment to excellence, innovation, and positive change — and especially to inculcate these immutable values in our young people,” the Council Boss stated.
Dr Gift Worlu explained that this year’s theme, “Quality: Think Differently,” challenges everyone to move beyond outdated practices and embrace creativity, purpose, and discipline as a way of life.
He said the Council deliberately adapted the global theme to focus on youth development, given their vital role in shaping the future of the local government, Rivers State, and the nation.
“Quality is not just about systems and standards; it is about people — especially our youth — who represent the hope and future of our community,” he noted. “Here in Obio/Akpor, we recognise that tomorrow’s quality governance, education, and service delivery depend on nurturing the mindset of excellence in our young people today.”
Dr Gift Worlu lauded Apex Certification Company Limited for partnering with the Council to make the event possible, describing the collaboration as timely and meaningful.
The Council Chairman disclosed that the programme brought together over 250 pupils from five post-primary schools, alongside their teachers, council officials, and development partners, to share knowledge and build values that promote quality consciousness among the youth.
Addressing the students directly, he charged them to make quality their daily habit in their studies and lifestyle. “Quality begins with the choices you make every day — the decision to study hard, to be honest, respectful, and to always give your best. You are the builders of a new Obio/Akpor, Rivers State, and Nigeria,” he said.
He concluded by urging participants to see excellence as a journey and not a destination. “Excellence is not a destination but a continuous journey. Let this gathering mark the beginning of a stronger partnership between government, institutions, and the youth — all working together to build a culture of excellence in Obio/Akpor and beyond,” he declared before officially declaring open the 2025 World Quality Day celebration.
In her speech, the Director of Education in Obio/Akpor, Mrs Grace Ali, commended the Obio/Akpor Council Chairman for organising the event, noting that quality remains the foundation of every progressive society.
“Today, we join the rest of the world to reflect on the essence of quality — in our systems, our services, and the lives we touch daily,” she said.
Mrs Grace Ali emphasised that quality is not an act but a culture that demands consistency, accountability, and continuous improvement.
She reaffirmed the Council’s education department’s commitment to promoting excellence in education, public service, and governance, ensuring that all programmes meet the highest standards.
“On behalf of the Education Department, I warmly welcome our invited guests, partners, schools, and stakeholders. May today’s celebration inspire us all to make quality a daily practice in everything we do,” she added.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr Engr. Herbert Okachukwu Gospel described quality as “doing things right, even when no one is watching.”
He stressed that quality is not limited to products or materials but represents a mindset and lifestyle rooted in integrity, discipline, and responsibility.
“Quality means setting a standard for yourself and refusing to go below it. The more you practice doing things correctly, the more it becomes second nature,” he said.
Engr. Dr Gospel identified the home, school, and religious institutions as critical environments for instilling quality values in children. He cautioned against negative influences such as the “school na scam” belief, describing it as a lazy mindset that undermines personal growth.
“Great opportunities are waiting for you, but you must be intentional about your growth. Success requires learning, discipline, and the courage to face challenges,” he added.
He concluded by urging the youths to adopt the principle of continuous improvement, stressing that learning from mistakes and correcting them is a hallmark of true excellence.
Signed:
Obio/Akpor Press Unit
November 13, 2025
