Trailblazer by Grace: Educational Pursuit
An Autobiography
by Basil Orioghae Ikede

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Growing up, Basil understood two principles early on – he was not physically or mentally suited to the drudgery that he saw throughout his village, and education could offer him a way out of his situation. After this early realization, young Basil relied on his Christian faith and hard work to successfully develop his intellectual talents and to take advantage of the opportunities that presented themselves. In many cases, each opportunity did not immediately come with the funds to support it. But the finances always worked out. Recognizing the sacrifices that his family had made to support his academic pursuits, Professor Ikede has conscientiously repaid the debt in kind and cash, helping family members and acquaintances to persevere through their own scholarly and personal challenges. Throughout his journey from boyhood in a poor rural Nigerian village to a successful academic at the University of Ibadan to a distinguished scholar at Atlantic Canada’s only veterinary college, Dr. Ikede has helped to pave the way for others. This autobiography is a testament to Basil’s determination to realize his own hopes and dreams, to express his belief in God’s goodness, and to fulfill his desire to help others.

www.basilikede.weebly.com

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Veterinary Medicine is truly a global profession and one that Dr. Ikede has embraced. Basil's autobiography is an inspiring story and a wonderful example of an individual being supported by family, friends and colleagues to achieve his successes; while at the same time overcoming great odds with perseverance to reach his goal of being a Veterinarian. His story, from his early years in a small village in Nigeria, through his professional training and into his career, paints a picture of "One Health" where Dr. Ikede has served humanity very generously at the intersection of Animal Health, Environmental Health and Human Heath.  - Dr Timothy Ogilvie Professor Emeritus, University of Prince Edward Island, Canada Dean Emeritus, St George's University, Grenada, West Indies The Good Book says something about God working all things for the good of those who love Him. The unfortunate health issue that led to the keeping of careful diaries, surely, qualifies as one such example. Our author has in-time records of important events in the course of his full life and rich experiences. They serve as the basis of this fascinating story of an African that is fast disappearing. This is a book I hope our children will pass on not only to their children but also to their children’s children. - Mr. Emmanuel Oladipo Retired International Director, Scripture Union International, UK Professor Basil Ikede’s autobiography is as instructive as it is inspiring. He narrates stories of his growing up in Nigeria and his international journeys and eventual settlement in Canada. His experiences would be of interest to individuals and organizations interested in rural community affairs and international cross-cultural awareness and sensitivity issues. For others aspiring to make similar transitions in their lives, this book would provide many hints and inspirational fillips. It is an autobiography worth reading. - Dr. Willie Clarke-Okah President & Principal of New Century New Compacts, Ontario, Canada Here is an excellent, candid rendition of the author’s life story as a child, the first Nigerian-trained Veterinarian, and an international educationist. Professor Ikede enthusiastically provided opportunities for his students, utilizing the links he developed while on overseas trips. I am one of the beneficiaries. I recommend the book to all, especially young developing minds. - Professor Stephen Owarioro Akpavie Deputy Provost, College of Veterinary Surgeons Nigeria, and Professor, University of Ibadan, Nigeria

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Professor Basil Orioghae Ikede was born in Nigeria then under British colonial rule. He received his primary education in his village named Bethel, and at age thirteen, left home for further schooling at Urhobo College Effurun, near Warri. He attended the University of Ibadan, and the Ahmadu Bello University Zaria from where he earned the first DVM degree in Nigeria in 1967. Four years later, he received a Diploma in Diagnostic Pathology from the Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Canada. The following year, at age thirty, he received a PhD in Veterinary Pathology from the University of Ibadan, also the first in Nigeria. For over twenty years, he worked as lecturer, professor, and department head at the University of Ibadan. Throughout those years, he also carried out research and diagnostic services as a visiting professor in various countries around the globe. In 1989, he moved with his family to Canada, having been offered a tenured position in the Atlantic Veterinary College at the University of Prince Edward Island, where he continued his contributions to veterinary science for nearly two decades. Professor Ikede is an award-winning academic author and has been a contributor to the four most recent editions of Veterinary Medicine. A Textbook of the Diseases of Cattle, Sheep, Pigs, Goats and Horses, the standard reference for veterinary students and practicing veterinarians. Now retired, Professor Ikede lives in Ottawa with Joy, his wife of over fifty years, and enjoys time with family and friends.

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Basil Orioghae Ikede

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