By Benson Ukam
The Managing Director of Daivd Flyn Nigeria Limited (DFL), Engr. Patrick William O’Brien, an Irish contractor has bagged an award of excellence for his financial support to students as well as training of undergraduates from the Civil Engineering department of Cross River University of Technology, (CRUTECH) through the compulsory Industrial Training program.
Engr. O’Brien, who has constructed numerous roads and bridges across Nigeria was honored few days ago during the Reunion/Award night organized by the CRUTECH Alumni association in Calabar.
Presenting the award, the National President of the association, Comrade Eyam Abeng described O’Brien as a kind man and a trailblazer who has contributed in no small measure to training quality indigenous Civil Engineers.
Eyam who commended the State Governor, Senator Ben Ayade for bringing him to the state said that, unlike many contractors who have handled projects in the state and Nigeria at large, Engr. O’Brien is so passionate about delivering quality job as well as giving back to the society through various programs.
The National President said that many undergraduates from the institution especially the Civil Engineering Department are currently having their Industrial Training program in his company while many have been employed.
He further explained that O’Brien revolutionary vision especially in building the Thai Africa Rice City which is one of the signature projects of Governor Ben Ayade added to why he was selected for the award.
According to him, “The Managing Director of Daivd Flyn Nigeria Limited, Engr. Patrick William O’Brien is a rare gem. He is not only committed to delivering quality services which is evident in some of the projects he has handled and currently handling in the state but also has insatiable desire to give back to society.
“Mr. Patrick William O’Brien as we speak has reasonable number of Cross River State indigenes that he is supporting financially to pursue their academic programs. Many of our undergraduate students from the Civil Engineering Department are currently undergoing their industrial training program there. This has given us the confidence that he’s not just here for contracts but to build a team of future indigenous Engineers. For us, this is very commendable considering that he is from far away Ireland.
“As an association, we are very grateful to him for this because apart from this kind gesture, many Cross Riverians, CRUTECH Alumni inclusive are currently working with him and we have no doubt that he is inculcating this good morals in them. To our Governor who brought him to the state, we commend him for identifying with him.
“O’Brien revolutionary vision especially in building the Tie Africa Rice City which is set to be commissioned in January by the President is very remarkable because this is one of the major projects that will drive Governor Ayade industrialization efforts”.
The alumni President added that “From our background check, we have realised how he is working hard to support our dear Governor achieve his dream of industrializing the state like the Calas Vegas which will be used for Barbecue night during the Carnival Calabar.
Also, As a retired Boxer, we understand he’s planning to set up a boxing club which will train young Cross Riverians on boxing very soon. Indeed, he has been very committed to the government of the day’s developmental agenda and we’re particularly grateful because CRUTECH graduates and students have been the highest beneficiaries of this commitment”.
Reacting to the award, Engr O’Brien thanked the association for the recognition saying it will spur him to do more.
“I’m very grateful to the Governor Prof. Ben Ayade who has given me the opportunity to work in Cross River State and also touch lives. To CRUTECH Alumni, I thank you for the honor, this will spur us to do more “.
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