Eileen Ihemadu is one of Nigeria’s pride and a good ambassador who bears the badge of honour and hardwork which many Nigerians are known for especially, in diaspora. Proudly a Nigerian anyday, anytime, Eileen lives in Ireland where she studied for and obtained a master’s degree in the field of Marketing from the South-East Technological University.Currently, she told our editorial crew in this interview that she is a sales/marketing professional. In other words, she is practicing what she learnt in school.
Excerpts
PRIMETIME: Can you tell us about yourself? (Family & educational background)?
EILEEN; I am Eileen by name and I grew up in a family of seven. I did my nursery, primary and junior secondary education in private schools in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. I completed my senior secondary in Abia state, Nigeria. In furtherance of my studies, I proceeded to the University of Port Harcourt in Rivers State where I obtained a Bachelor of Arts (B.A), in Linguistics and Communication Studies. When the call beacon for service to fatherland, I was posted to Umuahia, Abia State where I served at Broadcasting Corporation of Abia (BCA).
Later, I proceeded for my Master’s programme and obtained a master’s of Business in Marketing degree from the South East Technological University Ireland.
PRIMETIME: Can you recall some of those childhood moments that formed unforgettable memories?
EILEEN: I have so many childhood memories but the one that stands out was the one I represented my school in a competition and I won several laurels to my credit and elevated the standard of the school.
PRIMETIME: What are some of the things you appreciate about your home country, Nigeria?
EILEEN: I appreciate our culture and its uniqueness. Our culture stands us out anywhere. Our food, dress sense, cultural activities and festivals are simply unique. I appreciate our sense of unity and collective concern to one another especially at periods of merriment and mourning.
PRIMETIME: If you were to change anything about your home country, what would that be and what effect(s) would it have on the citizenry?
EILEEN: I would like to make the system of government to work in favour of her citizens. This would go a long way in changing the rot and delay in policies and administration.
PRIMETIME: Which part of the world are you based and did you make the choice to stay there or someone else did on your behalf?
EILEEN: Ireland, I made the choice.
PRIMETIME: Can you state some unique features of your host country that stands her out from other countries of the world?
EILEEN: Ireland is one of the most peaceful countries in the world.
PRIMETIME: How has life been in your country of residence and if you have a choice to return to Nigeria, would you oblige?
EILEEN: Life has been very fair to me. Yes, as much as resources are put in place to cater for my needs.
PRIMETIME: May we know your occupation and or anything that engages your time abroad?
EILEEN: I am a Sales/Marketing professional.
PRIMETIME: What advice do you have for the Nigerian government?
EILEEN: Government should create policies that would birth innovation in technology for industries to be established and the existing ones to thrive.
PRIMETIME: Having lived in Nigeria for sometime, do you think life is better abroad and why do you think so?
EILEEN: I wouldn’t say life is better abroad as no place like home, rather the difference is in the system. They have a working system, leaders are held accountable, policies are made factoring citizens and the common man in the society.
PRIMETIME: If an opportunity beckons for you to serve your country, would you oblige and in what capacity would you like to serve?
EILEEN: I will always oblige to serve my country. I don’t have a particular preference as long as my service would make an impact to my country.
PRIMETIME: Having lived and interacted with citizens of your host country, what is their perception about your home country and her citizens?
EILEEN: Generally, the first view is underdeveloped and its reliance on the West for assistance and aid.