Engineer Moses Idele: A Life of Dedication, Passion and Legacy

By Uwa Idele

Engineer Moses Omozuwa Idele’s name is synonymous with dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to his family, profession, and community. As we commemorate the 15th anniversary of his passing, we celebrate the life of a remarkable man whose memory continues to inspire and uplift.

Early Years

Engineer Moses Omozuwa Idele was born on the 29th of September 1944, into the family of Mr. Idelegbabon Igbinoba and Madam Aharyare Idelegbagbon in Utekon Village, Ovia North East Local Government of Edo State. He was the third of four children. Tragically, he lost his father when he was merely four years old. Consequently, he moved to his mother’s village at Iyowa, where he began his primary education at St. Anthony Catholic Primary School, Iyowa. Despite the absence of a paternal figure and a tangible memory of his father, Moses’ resilience and determination shone through. He was forever in search of a photograph of his late father, offering a reward to anyone who could provide one—a testament to his longing for a connection with his roots.

Academics and Career

Moses’ academic journey began at St. Anthony Catholic Primary School in Iyowa. His exceptional academic prowess earned him admission to Aquinas College Akure in 1960, where he excelled remarkably. Due to his outstanding performance, he received a double promotion from Form four and passed his West African School Certificate in 1964 with flying colors, completing his secondary education in just four years. During his secondary school years, he lived with his late brother, Professor S.I. Idele, whose influence and support were instrumental in shaping Moses’ academic and professional future.

Continuing his academic journey, Moses attended the Federal School of Science in Lagos between 1965 and 1967, where he achieved his A’ levels, enabling him to gain admission to the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo University, Ife. In 1967, he began his studies in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, majoring in electrical power distribution. Moses graduated in 1970 with honors, marking the beginning of a distinguished engineering career.

In 1971, Moses commenced his professional journey as a Pupil Electrical Engineer with the Midwestern Region Civil Service, having been employed by the Civil Service Commission. In 1974, he was seconded to the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) as an Executive Engineer Grade 2. He returned to the Ministry of Works and Transport (M.W & T) in 1976, where he worked in various capacities, including the headquarters and out-station departments. Notably, he served as the zonal Chief Mechanic and Electrical Engineer at M.W & T Auchi from 1978 to 1979.

In pursuit of further professional development, Moses left M.W & T in October 1982 for an in-service training with the North West Electricity Board in the United Kingdom, sponsored by the British Electricity Board International. He completed a one-year intensive training program in distribution engineering for overseas graduate engineers. Upon his return to Nigeria, Moses was employed as an Assistant Chief Electrical Engineer in M.W & T in 1984 and served as a board member of the Edo State Rural Electrification Board until 1986.

In 1987, Moses was seconded to the Public Utilities Board (PUB) as Deputy General Manager (Electrical). By 1989, he had transferred his services to PUB, where he eventually acted as General Manager between 1993 and 1994. During this period, the PUB was split into the Rural Electrification Board and the Water Board, leading to Moses’ appointment as General Manager of the Rural Electrification Board in 1994. He worked tirelessly in this role until his premature retirement in 1996. Throughout his career, Moses commissioned numerous electrical projects within Edo State and the old Bendel State.

Despite his retirement, Moses’ passion for his work remained unwavering. He carried out several rural electrification projects as a private consultant/contractor for both Edo State and Delta State Governments in the capacity of Managing Director of Hyteck Limited.

Professional Academic Qualifications

•       Aquinas College Akure (1960-1964)

•       West African School Certificate (1964)

•       Federal School of Science, Lagos (1965-1967)

•       Obafemi Awolowo University, Ife (1967-1970)

•       University of London GCE A’ level (1967)

•       Engineering Course at the Thompson Foundation, Manchester, England (1974)

•       Certificate of Training: One-year intensive training program in distribution engineering for overseas graduate engineers (1983)

•       Member Nigerian Society of Engineers (1982)

•       Registered Engineer in the Council for the Regulation of Engineers in Nigeria (1984)

•       Member Institute of Electrical Engineers, London (1984)

•       Chartered Engineer registered by the Engineering Council of the Institution of Electrical Engineers (1985)

•       Fellow Nigerian Society of Engineers (1993)

•       Fellow Nigerian Institution of Electrical Engineers (1994)

•       Merit Award presented by NSE (1994)

•       Member of GDM (Social & Political Organizations) (1997)

•       Nominated for Edo State Senatorial seat (GDM) (1997)

•       Managing Director, Hyteck Limited (1996-2010)

Family and Social Life

Married to Elder Mrs Elizabeth Izegbuwa Idele nee Ogbeifun, Moses has 9 children, 2 girls and 7 boys, He was a loving and devoted father, deeply passionate about his children’s education and career choices. His commitment extended beyond his immediate family, as he assisted many close friends and relatives in various aspects of their lives, including education and work. He maintained a close bond with his brothers (now late) and his only surviving sister.

His contributions to his village, Utekon, were profound, particularly his instrumental role in bringing electricity to the community—a gesture that continues to be remembered with immense gratitude.

Moses also enjoyed a vibrant social life, often spending time with friends after working hours at the Benin Club, where he was a member. In his middle age, he played squash, mostly during weekends in the Benin Club squash section, and he had a particular fondness for watching football and wrestling matches.

Last Days

In the twilight of his life, Moses became a dedicated Christian and was baptized in the Church of God Mission. He developed a close relationship with his pastor and church members, finding solace and community within the church. Tragically, on the last Sunday before his death, he was preparing to attend church when he suddenly fell ill.

Legacy

Fifteen years have passed since Engineer Moses Omozuwa Idele’s departure, yet his legacy continues to shine brightly. His contributions to the field of electrical engineering, his unwavering dedication to his family and community, and his passion for education and development remain etched in the hearts of those who knew him. His life serves as a beacon of inspiration, a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact.

Today, as we commemorate the 15th anniversary of his passing, we celebrate the life of a remarkable man whose memory continues to inspire and uplift. Engineer Moses Omozuwa Idele’s legacy is a testament to the profound difference one individual can make in the lives of many.

•By Uwa Idele on behalf of your children – Ameze, Abies, Efe, Osaro, Egbe, Nosa, Aibudefe, Ehiosu