From Pushing a Wheelbarrow to Becoming a Professor: The Inspirational Academic Journey of UNN's Prof. Nicholas Asogwa
Professor Nicholas Uchechukwu Asogwa, a renowned scholar in Ethics at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), has shared his extraordinary journey from being a cobbler to achieving the esteemed position of a professor.
Okoro David Emeka 
In a remarkable testament to the power of determination and the human spirit's resilience, Professor Nicholas Uchechukwu Asogwa, a renowned scholar in Ethics at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), has shared his extraordinary journey from being a cobbler to achieving the esteemed position of a professor.
Prof. Asogwa's inspiring story of transformation was made public on September 26, 2023, when he was promoted to the distinguished rank of a professor by UNN. In a heartwarming statement titled 'My Journey To Professorship,' he disclosed the incredible path that led him to this pinnacle of academic achievement.
Born into a family facing dire poverty in Udenu Local Government Area of Enugu State, Prof. Asogwa's educational pursuits were under severe threat due to financial constraints. However, he refused to succumb to adversity and embarked on a journey that would ultimately change his life and countless others.
During his early years, Prof. Asogwa found himself pushing a wheelbarrow at the bustling Orie Orba market, barely scraping by to make ends meet. It was a humble beginning that would later serve as a testament to his unwavering determination.
He further shared that he worked as a shoe mender in one of the female hostels, Bello Hall, at UNN. This role was instrumental in his academic journey, as it allowed him to interact with individuals who would play pivotal roles in his life.
Two individuals, in particular, stood out among those who impacted his life during this period. They were Bar. Mrs. Nkechi Ohanuka, a lawyer from Imo State, and Mrs. Proscovia Ndoboli from Uganda. They were both regular customers of his shoe-mending services.
According to Prof. Asogwa, it was Bar. Nkechi Ohanuka who took the first significant step to change the trajectory of his life. She inquired about his education and aspirations, and upon learning of his desire for higher education, she bought him a JAMB form, despite his financial constraints. Her act of kindness marked the beginning of his educational journey.
In the case of Mrs. Proscovia Ndoboli, her support went beyond the JAMB form. She not only paid for his initial school fees but also ensured that he had accommodation in the hostel. Her generosity provided him with the essential foundation to pursue his educational dreams.
As he embarked on this remarkable journey, Prof. Asogwa diligently carved out his academic path. His steadfastness led to his eventual reunion with Bar. Nkechi Ohanuka in 2013, just before his Ph.D. oral defense.
He dedicated his Ph.D. work, which was slated for oral defense in February 2014, to both Nkechi Ohanuka and Proscovia Ndoboli, as a tribute to the two individuals who had been instrumental in his academic pursuit.
His journey continued with a strong support network, including his parents and the dedicated lecturers at UNN who encouraged and guided him along the way. Today, Professor Nicholas Uchechukwu Asogwa stands as a symbol of unwavering determination, resilience, and the transformational power of education.
His story serves as an inspiration, reminding us all that, with determination and support, even the most challenging circumstances can be overcome, and dreams can be realized. Prof. Asogwa's remarkable journey from cobbler to professor is a testament to the limitless potential within each of us to achieve greatness.
