James Mavuaye Orife @80: Legacy of Excellence

Ade Adesokan

There is no denying the fact that the extent of people’s relevance and importance in life is easily underscored by the uniqueness of their legacies after their positions of influence are taken over by new men and women of power.

This is because the importance of leaving a good legacy lies in the enduring imprint it casts, shaping hearts, inspiring minds, and illuminating paths for generations yet to come.

Some people erroneously think it is easy to push an achiever into the dustbin of history when old age comes. Still, James Mavuaye Orife, the 80-year-old Chairman and CEO of Versa-Tech Nigeria Ltd has demonstrated clearly that old age may bend the body. Still, it cannot break the spirit of an achiever, whose impact continues to resonate powerfully within their environment.

Orife, who clocks 80 years on Monday, February 12 is an all-around professional who has carved a niche for himself in every area of the economy he has worked.

He is currently a director on the boards of many solid companies, among which are Sterling and Falcon Holdings Ltd, Starz Marine and Engineering Ltd, Prime Energy Resources, Alpha Choice Insurance Brokers, and Intels Services.

 His exceptional leadership abilities and keen business acumen led him to spearhead several successful projects and companies, leaving an indelible mark on the oil industry.

His associates confirmed that he has consistently demonstrated his commitment to giving back to society through numerous philanthropic efforts, having established charitable foundations that focus on uplifting underprivileged communities, and providing access to education, healthcare, and basic needs.

They also bear witness to the fact that his tireless dedication to social causes and his generous contributions have positively impacted the lives of countless individuals, leaving a lasting legacy of compassion and care.

Orife attended Ondo Boys High Schools, Ondo; Loyola College, Ibadan, and has a BSc Hons in Geology from the University of Ibadan. He has held various positions in NNPC-Pioneer (Group General Manager in NAPIMS)  and other private companies. To date, he manages Versa-Tech Nigeria Ltd, a drilling and work-over rig company.

Throughout his illustrious career, James Mavuaye Orife has achieved remarkable success in his chosen field. With an unparalleled work ethic and innovative thinking that hallmarked his stint in the Nigerian oil industry, he quickly rose through the ranks to become a well-respected professional

 His exceptional leadership abilities and keen business acumen led him to spearhead several successful projects and companies, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

He is also a member of several professional societies and associations, including the Past President of the Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE), and a Fellow of the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society (NMGS). He has received many awards and recognitions for his contributions to these fields etc.

And like Ansel Adams correctly puts it, No man has the right to dictate what other men should perceive, create, or produce, but all should be encouraged to reveal themselves, their perceptions, and emotions, and to build confidence in the creative spirit. There is no doubt that James Mavuaye Orife has proven himself to be a man of history who has left his footprints in the sand of time.

 .Adesokan is a Lagos-based public commentator