The Calabar International Convention Centre was aglow with colour, culture, and celebration on Friday as dignitaries, innovators, and guests converged for “The Builder’s Odyssey,” a landmark event celebrating three major milestones: the 10th anniversary of Nugi Technologies Nigeria Ltd, the 40th birthday of its founder, Mr. Ugi Augustine Ugi, and the official unveiling of his memoir, The Blood of the Phoenix: A Memoir of Sickle Cell, Faith and Service.

The event, which blended reflection with festivity, paid tribute to resilience, innovation, and purposeful leadership. Although Mr. Ugi was unavoidably absent due to health reasons, his presence resonated throughout the evening via heartfelt tributes, a documentary presentation, and a recorded message to guests.

The ceremony attracted a wide array of high-profile personalities from government, academia, finance, and the private sector. Representing the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, was the Commissioner for Science and Technology, Associate Professor Justin Atiang Beshel. Other notable attendees included the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Anthony Owan Enoh; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar; and Chairman of the Cross River Carnival Commission, Sir Gabe Onah, PhD.

In her welcome address, the Chief Executive Officer of Nugi Technologies, Ms. Ajoke Akinlabi, reflected on the company’s decade-long journey, highlighting its people-centred culture and commitment to innovation. A documentary presentation traced Nugi Technologies’ evolution from a modest start-up to a leading provider of digital solutions for governance and service delivery.

Co-founder Mr. Sunday Okoi recounted key moments in the company’s growth, while demonstrations by Mr. Victory Bassey and Mr. Joseph Ofem showcased Nugi’s flagship platforms, including Syncventory, Qloop, 360Gov, Ultimeplus, Servyx, and Cloudbridge.

A defining moment of the evening was the unveiling of Mr. Ugi’s memoir, The Blood of the Phoenix, a deeply personal account of his journey with sickle cell disorder, faith, and public service. The book was formally launched by the Governor’s representative, with a review session led by Sir Gabe Onah. Guests later pledged donations in support of the book’s humanitarian objectives.

Cultural performances by Obudu and Efik dance troupes added colour to the celebration, while comedian Sabinus provided comic relief. Winners of the UAU Carnival Calabar Challenge were also honoured with cash prizes running into millions of naira.

The event further recognised excellence through the presentation of Digital Transformation Leadership Awards to public officials and the recognition of 16 Nugi Technologies staff members for outstanding service. Mr. Victory Bassey was named the Nugi Trailblazer of the Year and received a ₦5 million award for his contributions to the company’s growth and innovation.

In a recorded message, Mr. Ugi expressed gratitude to guests and reaffirmed his commitment to building systems, empowering people, and serving society. The programme concluded with closing remarks by Nugi’s Chief Technology Officer, Mr. Godswill Adie, and a musical performance by Excel Praiseworth, followed by an after-party.

“The Builder’s Odyssey” was widely described by attendees as more than a celebration of milestones, but a powerful reflection on leadership, perseverance, and the enduring impact of purpose-driven innovation.