Chief Jerome Oputa Udoji CMG, CFR (1912–2010), known as Igwe Ozuluoha I of Igboland, was a prominent Nigerian figure known for his roles in business administration, government service, traditional leadership, and philanthropy. Udoji gained recognition for his participation in the "Udoji Award" and his various government and private sector contributions. Renowned for his integrity and discipline, he received education at the University of Cambridge in England and the Economic Institute of the World Bank in Washington. Igwe Udoji held titles like Commander of the Order of Saint Michael and Saint George (1959), Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1963), and Papal knight of the Order of Saint Gregory the Great (1975).^[1][2]

Early life and education

Born in 1912 in Ozubulu, Ekusigo LGA of Anambra State, Udoji began his education journey at St. Michael's Catholic School, Ozubulu, followed by St. Charles Training College, Onitsha, and later Kings College, Cambridge University, England. He was called to the Bar at Gray's Inn, London, in 1948. Additionally, Udoji pursued further studies at the World Bank, Washington, between 1955 and 1956. Udoji's educational pursuits were complemented by his teaching experiences at schools in Eastern and Western regions, including Ibadan Grammar School and Abeokuta Grammar School. He also served as a secretary in charge of the Western Nigerian provinces.

Public service

Upon his return from England, Udoji embarked on a career in the Colonial Administrative Service. He served as an assistant district officer in Ado Ekiti and later as district officer for Egbado. Udoji's service extended to Ondo and Abeokuta provinces, where he displayed exemplary dedication and intellectual capacity. In 1954, he moved to the Eastern region and assumed the role of permanent secretary in the ministries of Health, Commerce, Finance, and Establishments. By 1959, Udoji's integrity and commitment led to his appointment as Head of the Region’s civil service, Chief Secretary to the Premier of the Eastern Region, and Secretary to the Executive Council. These roles continued until the 1966 Nigerian coup d'état. After this, he briefly practiced law (1966–68) and worked as a Ford Foundation Consultant in Administration and Management (1968–72).^[3]

In 1972, during Nigeria's oil boom, the Yakubu Gowon administration assigned Udoji to lead a commission reviewing civil service standards and compensation. The commission made recommendations, known as the "Udoji Award," which included salary increases, civil servant training, administrative structure reforms, and the introduction of goal-oriented management. Udoji's contributions extended beyond Nigeria, as he served as the Chairman of the Africanisation Commission of the East African Community in 1963 and participated in various international initiatives.^[4]

Business career and philanthropy

In the Nigerian first republic, Udoji represented regional governments in financial concerns like Hotel Presidential, Enugu, and Port Harcourt, as well as Independence Breweries, Umuahia. Despite disagreements with the military authorities in 1966, he transitioned from the regional civil service to practice law briefly before joining Ford Foundation. Udoji's leadership extended to the boards of corporations like R.T. Briscoe, Motor Tyre Service Company, Wiggins Teape, and the Nigerian Tobacco Company. He was also instrumental in the establishment of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) and served as its inaugural Chairman from 1981 to 1986. Udoji's impact on business and society was further exemplified through his roles as the second Chairman of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) from 1982 to 1987. His legacy included contributions to various sectors such as banking, manufacturing, and football.^[5]

International contributions

Udoji's influence extended beyond Nigeria's borders. He served as a consultant to the United Nations Conference on the Management of Public Enterprises held in Yugoslavia (1969), played a role in Swaziland (1970) as sole Commissioner for the country's Localization Commission, and functioned as Secretary-General of the African Association for Public Administration and Management (1972–75). His extensive international service also included a UNDP appointment to review and re-organize Uganda's Public Service in 1991. Udoji's contributions in international forums underscored his expertise in administrative and management matters.^[6]

Personal and family life

Chief Jerome Udoji was married to Marcelina Uzoamaka Udoji née Onuchukwu, daughter of Pa William Onuchukwu, an educationist in Onitsha. The couple had three children: a daughter, Scholastica, and two sons, Osita Paul (aka Oscar) and Peter Ebelechukwu (aka Sunday) Udoji. Udoji's family members also made significant contributions to various fields, such as business and politics. Udoji's impact extended to his grandchildren, leaving behind a lasting legacy.

Legacy and passing

Chief Jerome Oputa Udoji's passing on April 2, 2010, marked the end of an era. Governor Peter Obi of Anambra State and Cardinal Francis Arinze, among others, offered condolences and highlighted Udoji's contributions. Udoji's funeral was attended by many.^[7][8]

References