…Says “He Is A Remarkable Individual, Known For Being A Peacemaker; Humble, And A Philanthropist Per Excellence”.
By Igbotako Nowinta
TO successfully hit the septuagenarian mark (70 years) in life is really a thing of joy, that automatically calls for huge celebration, most especially in Nigeria, where unpredictable circumstances abound, along with the recent suffocating economic reality, which has sadly become a thug of war for most citizens.
Therefore, as Engr. Esosa Austin Ojomo hits the septuagenarian circle today, it is very understandable why his siblings cum family members, friends and well wishers have deemed it absolutely necessary, not only to facilitate with him, but have decided to carefully roll out the drums to wish him a happy super birthday.
Celebrating Engr. Esosa Austin Ojomo today, going by his astounding, intimidating academic, professional, vocational and humanitarian records, is truly recognizing an amazing fellow. In the world of engineering, this man has played an astonishing and vibrant role; an authentic professional.
All who know him speak about his integrity of mind and spirit; his moderation and refinement of character and his broad sympathies and generosity. The nature of Engr. Esosa Ojomo is to seek common good, where there is division, he works for unity, where there is damage, he tries to effect repairs, in conflict situations, he invests in compromise and restitution.
That is why his dear sister, Dr. (Mrs.) Irene Airen Aigbe, Ag. Head, Department of Commercial and Industrial Law, Faculty of Law, University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria, is delighted to specially celebrate him.
In pouring encomium on Engr. Esosa Ojomo, Dr. (Mrs) Irene Aigbe posited:” The celebrant, Engr. Esosa Austin Ojomo, is my eldest brother and the third of all our siblings, while I am the youngest and eighth child of our full-blooded siblings. Engr. Ojomo is celebrating his 70th birthday in good health, and we give God all the glory for this milestone. He is a remarkable individual, known for being a peacemaker, a humble man, and a philanthropist. He has a passion for helping young people achieve their goals, whether they are family, friends, or well-wishers. His kindness and generosity are truly unmatched, and I could go on endlessly about his many admirable qualities. I wish my brother many more years of celebrations in good health, and pray that God grants him his heart’s desires. I celebrate and congratulate him on this special occasion”.
Now, it is imperative to go down memory lane to fully unmask this giant archiver; to expose where he is coming from, and how he has strenuously and marvelously done wonderful things with his life.
Engr. Esosa Austin Ojomo was born on the 23rd of January 1955 in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria, to the late Mr. Austin Oboigba Ojomo (popularly known as K.B.) and late Mrs. Theresa Omonyemwense Ezomo-Ojomo (née Eghobamien). He is the third child and the first son among eight full-blood siblings.
He began his primary education in Ezomo Primary School, Benin City, and finished Primary six in Christ Apostolic Church School, Agege Lagos, (CAC). He had his secondary school education in Edo College from 1967 to 1971. On August 9, 1967, his father K B passed on to greater glory, the same day the Nigerian Civil War started. Luck and hard work combined saw him through Edo College on scholarship.
His outstanding academic performance and remarkable intelligence earned him a Federal Government scholarship to study Engineering at the University of Benin. The industrious Esosa graduated in 1977, with a Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng) degree, and became a member of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN). After graduation, he gained practical experience by working with his uncle at DOU Association. Even when he was offered state and federal government employment, including the Nigerian Air Force, he opted for DOU.
A passionate sportsman, Esosa has actively participated in various sports, including lawn tennis, squash, hockey, and golf, earning numerous awards at local, national, and international levels. His dedication to sports remains unwavering, as he continues to play, decades after first picking up these games.
At 70, Engr. Esosa Austin Ojomo stands as a testament to a life dedicated to purpose, service, and the betterment of others. A man of impeccable character and boundless compassion, he has spent his years shaping lives, building communities, and leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who have had the privilege of knowing him.
A philanthropist par excellence, Engr. Ojomo’s selflessness is unparalleled. Whether within his family circle, among friends, or in the broader community, his readiness to lend a helping hand is a hallmark of his character. His generosity transcends financial aid; he gives his time, energy, and unwavering support to uplift others. He has been instrumental in helping young people lay the foundation for successful lives, equipping them with the resources and guidance to thrive in an ever-changing world.
As a father and mentor, he embodies wisdom, patience, and unconditional love. His home is a sanctuary of peace, where values are instilled, and dreams are nurtured. Beyond his immediate family, he has mentored countless individuals, offering them not just advice but also the encouragement needed to reach their full potential.
A consummate peacemaker, Engr. Ojomo has an innate ability to resolve conflicts with grace and fairness, earning him the respect and admiration of people from all walks of life. His calm demeanor and gentle spirit make him a beacon of hope in challenging times.
Professionally, his accomplishments as an engineer are a source of pride and inspiration. A man of excellence, he has combined technical expertise with a passion for innovation, contributing significantly to his field. His work ethic, integrity, and leadership have set him apart, making him a role model for aspiring professionals. Above all, Engr. Esosa Austin Ojomo is a complete gentleman—kind-hearted, humble, and deeply principled. He lives by a code of honor, consistently placing the needs of others above his own and striving to make the world a better place.
In September 1980, the ebullient Esosa married Mary Idogwe Izuagie, and they built their home in Benin City. Their union was blessed with four children: Esosa (born in 1981), Edefe (1982), Efosa (1983), and Edema (1987). In 1988, the family relocated to Lagos, where Esosa expanded his professional endeavors through his corporate entity, Esosa Ojomo Consulting. Over the years, he worked on numerous private and public engineering projects, both independently and in collaboration with other professionals.
In 1998, Esosa partnered with two of his longtime friends and colleagues, Damilola Adetugboboh and Joseph Dudusola—both accomplished architects—to establish PALDOATED Nig. Ltd. Together, they undertook significant government and private development projects across Nigeria. That partnership is still alive today. Engr. Esosa Austin Ojomo continues to contribute to engineering and development projects, maintaining an active presence in Lagos and Benin City.
As this great man celebrates his 70th birthday, we honor not just the milestones of his remarkable journey but the values he represents: love, selflessness, and the unwavering belief in the power of community. Engr. Esosa Austin Ojomo; your life is an inspiration, and your legacy will endure for generations to come.
As l join Dr. (Mrs) Irene Airen Aigbe, and other siblings to wish Engr. Esosa Austin Ojomo a super birthday, and to jointly celebrate this iconic character, it is very clear, given the direction of his life journey so far, that: this man is an acclaimed and distinguished humanist.
Nowinta Igbotako, serial author/media/research consultant, is a ‘biography expert’ @ Nigeria Good Governance Research Centre (NGGRC): nowintaigbotako@gmail.com.