…as Newspeg Magazine/Online celebrates a woman of resilience, vision, and excellence on her birthday
By Nkechi Eze
As the Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Council of Food Science and Technology (NiCFoST), Mrs. Veronica Nkechi Ezeh stands as a glowing symbol of determination, intellectual courage, and purposeful leadership. In this exclusive interview with Newspeg Magazine/Online, she takes us through the defining moments of her life and career, sharing hard-won lessons and hopes for the future. On the occasion of her birthday, the entire Newspeg team salutes her enduring legacy and passion for nation-building.
A Life Story Rooted in Resilience
Mrs. Ezeh recalls the early years of her life with a mix of warmth and gravity. “I had a beautiful beginning as a child, with strong promise academically,” she begins. But history would soon interrupt the bright path ahead of her. “The Nigerian Civil War in 1966 disrupted my early education and robbed me of the stability and opportunity I had started with,” she reflects.
Despite the deep disruption caused by the war, her story did not end in despair. With the support of dedicated teachers, she was able to return to school and rekindle her academic journey. “I was fortunate to continue my secondary education under the guidance of excellent teachers who reignited my passion for learning. Their encouragement motivated me to pursue university education,” she says.
After earning her first degree, her life took another transformational turn when she married a man who shared her love for education. “He believed deeply in the power of education, not just for himself but for everyone around him,” she fondly remembers. With his support, she took what many would consider a bold and daunting step, returning to school for her master’s degree 26 years after leaving university.
“It was an experience that changed the course of my life permanently,” she says. “That journey, from the setback of war to academic achievement, has shaped who I am today.”
Challenges That Built Character, Breakthroughs That Changed the Game
Asked about the most significant challenges and breakthroughs she has experienced, Mrs. Ezeh returns to the theme of the civil war. “One of my greatest challenges was the disruption of my early education. It was a painful setback at a young age, but it taught me resilience,” she says with conviction.
The turning point came, she says, through the quality of education she received in her secondary years. That strong foundation later carried her into a transformative postgraduate experience. “Studying for my master’s degree opened my eyes to best practices in food science and technology. It broadened my perspective, deepened my expertise, and gave me the confidence to reach higher,” she explains. “That experience didn’t just transform my career, it empowered me to contribute meaningfully to national development.”
A Message to the Youth: Education Is Your Superpower
When asked what she wishes young Nigerians would take away from her life story, Mrs. Ezeh is crystal clear in her response.
“I want the young generation to understand that success is a journey, not a sprint,” she says. “Your background or the obstacles in your way should not define your future. What matters is how you respond to them.”
For her, the transformative power of education cannot be overstated. “Above all, education is key. I strongly believe that every young person should pursue education up to the PhD level if possible. That’s the surest way to unlock your full God-given potential and rise to your highest calling in life.”
Looking Ahead: A Future Still Full of Purpose
Even with all she has accomplished, Mrs. Ezeh is not slowing down. In five years, she sees herself continuing to shape the national discourse on food safety and public health. “I hope to mentor the next generation of food science and technology professionals and help build a Nigeria where our food systems are trusted globally,” she says.
Beyond technical contributions, her passion for youth and women empowerment remains steadfast. “I want to keep using my story and voice to inspire young people, especially women to believe in their dreams, embrace education, and pursue excellence no matter their starting point in life.”
A Birthday Tribute from Newspeg Magazine/Online
On this special occasion, Newspeg Magazine/Online joins family, friends, colleagues, and well-wishers across Nigeria and beyond in celebrating a rare gem, Mrs. Veronica Nkechi Ezeh.
Your story is one of grace, grit, and greatness. You have taught us all that life’s setbacks are only setups for comebacks, and that true leadership is defined not just by how high one climbs, but by how many others they lift along the way.
Happy birthday, Ma. May your days ahead be filled with continued wisdom, greater impact, and boundless joy.
From all of us at Newspeg Magazine/Online: We celebrate you today and always.
