Nicholas Uchechukwu Asogwa, who once worked as a wheelbarrow pusher and repaired shoes, has shared his remarkable journey on social media. He expressed gratitude for achieving the prestigious title of Professor of Ethics at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) and acknowledged the role of faith and those who supported his academic endeavors.

In his heartfelt post featuring photos from his promotion ceremony, Asogwa remarked, "Today marks a significant milestone in my life as UNN officially bestowed upon me the esteemed rank of Professor. My heartfelt thanks go to the divine. I stand before the world, profoundly moved. My existence is a living testament to the potency of unwavering determination in the face of adversity."

He recounted his upbringing in a family stricken by poverty, saying, "My early years were marked by hardship, scarce resources, and seemingly unattainable dreams. Nonetheless, I was fortunate to have parents who instilled in me the value of education and the belief that dedication and resilience can conquer any obstacle."

Asogwa described his journey through financial constraints, societal stereotypes, and numerous doubts on his path to becoming a professor. He shared, "The very day I received a job offer, I knew I carried the responsibility of breaking the cycle of poverty in my family and proving wrong all those who doubted my potential based on my background."

He faced countless rejections, disappointments, and setbacks but refused to let them define his destiny. He emphasized, "The rank of Professor I've achieved today reaffirms the truth in the saying, 'persistence is the key to success.'"

Asogwa also reminisced about his humble beginnings as a wheelbarrow pusher, stating, "I can still vividly recall my days as a wheelbarrow pusher at the bustling Orie Orba market in Udenu LGA of Enugu state, and my time as a shoe-mender in UNN's Bello Hall, one of the female hostels."

He dedicated his academic achievements to two women who encouraged him. He explained, "These two remarkable women, Barrister Mrs. Nkechi Ohanuka and Mrs. Proscovia Ndoboli from Imo State and Uganda respectively, played pivotal roles in my journey. They were both my loyal customers during my days as a shoe-mender."

He recounted a touching moment when Mrs. Ohanuka learned of his desire for higher education and promptly provided the funds for his JAMB form. As for Mrs. Ndoboli, she not only congratulated him but also visited his family, offering to cover his initial school fees and fulfilling her promise.

Professor Asogwa pledged to be a role model for his students because of his background. He wrote, "I've made a personal commitment to myself, to honor God, my loving parents, Nkechi Ohanuka, and Proscovia Ndoboli. In doing so, I've strived to serve humanity and shape the destinies of those I encounter."

He stressed the importance of investing in people, saying, "Material possessions have their place, but investing in individuals holds far greater significance. Consider my journey: since I became a lecturer, not a single day passes without my thoughts turning to Nkechi Ohanuka."

He concluded by reflecting on the impact of Mrs. Ohanuka's investment in him, stating, "Look at what the seed she planted in me years ago has grown into. I, in turn, have used that seed to sow into others, and this cycle will continue. What I am today and what I will become in the future, in one way or another, owe their existence to the seemingly small investment she made in me."