Isiakpu, A Gentleman Of Letters And Service, Celebrates Another Year!

The Abia State Civil Service and the world of Nigerian journalism, today  pause to offer their warmest congratulations to Deacon Isiakpu, Uzoma Livingstone, on his birthday.

A man of remarkable breadth and depth, Deacon Isiakpu’s career has been a rich tapestry woven with insightful reporting, astute administration, and a truly inspiring dedication to public service.

From his formative years at Government College, Umuahia in 1981, through his training at the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (1986), and culminating in a Bachelor of Science degree in Government and Public Administration from Abia State University, Uturu (1998), Deacon Isiakpu has consistently demonstrated a thirst for knowledge and a commitment to excellence.

His journey in journalism began with a spirited apprenticeship at publications such as City Tempo and Platform Magazine in bustling Lagos.

He quickly established himself as a talented writer, even while still a student, with his work appearing in esteemed titles like The Guardian, the now-defunct Concord, Evening Times, and Lagos News. This early promise blossomed into a prolific career, with contributions flowing from his pen into The Statesman, National Ambassador, Vanguard, and BusinessDay, alongside insightful news commentaries on BCA and features for FRCN.

Deacon Isiakpu’s dedication to Abia State is particularly noteworthy. He was a keen observer and chronicler of the state’s birth and early years, diligently covering three Chief Executives – Frank Ajobena, Ogbonnaya Onu, and Chinyere Ike Nwosu – with unwavering commitment.

His rise through the ranks of the Ministry of Information, culminating in his appointment as State Director of Information in 2019, saw him championing innovation with publications like Info Digest, a landmark achievement for the Ministry.

His career reached its peak in June 2021 with his appointment as Permanent Secretary, first within the Bureau of Common Services & Service Monitoring, and later the Ministry of Sports, from which he honourably retired in October 2023.

But Deacon Isiakpu is not merely an administrator; he is a man of letters. He is the co-author of two compelling biographical works – P. C. Onyegbu: Service Oriented Leader (2014) and Son of Heaven: Sir Innocent Nwaigwe, ISC, JP – The Portrait of A Man Determined To Survive (2019) – with a third, focusing on the life of Comrade Bernard Mgbaraonyeobi Udokporo, soon to be published.

A dedicated member of the journalistic community, he served two terms as Secretary and later Chairman of the National Ambassador Chapel of the NUJ. Even in retirement, his passion for communication remains strong, contributing regularly to a number of online news platforms.

Today, as we celebrate Deacon Isiakpu, Uzoma Livingstone anipr, we celebrate a life dedicated to service, a mind brimming with insight, and a gentleman whose contributions to Abia State and the world of journalism will long be remembered. We wish him a birthday filled with joy, good health, and continued success in all his endeavours.