By Peoples’ Guide Reporters
Chief Engr. Dr. Darlington Friday Ugota was born into the family of Ugota Nwankwo on April 25, 1989, in Akpugo, Umunwagu Idembia, Ezza South Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Growing up in a family that valued education and hard work, Darlington was encouraged from an early age to pursue his dreams and strive for excellence. His educational journey began at Community Primary School, Umunwagu Idembia, where he attended from 1997 to 2003 and obtained his First School Leaving Certificate with distinction. His brilliancy earned him the position of his class monitor.
After completing primary school, he progressed to Seiro International College, where he studied from 2003 to 2009 and obtained his Senior School Certificate (SSCE, WAEC 2009).
It is worthy of note to state that even at secondary school level, he was also the head boy/senior prefect of his school. His time at Seiro International College was marked by academic achievement and a growing interest in engineering. In 2009, Engr. Darlington gained admission to the prestigious University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where he pursued a degree in Mechanical Engineering and graduated with Second Class Honours (Upper Division 2014).
Upon graduation, he obtained his degree with honors, laying a solid foundation for his career. He was then posted to Edo Stateto serve his fatherland via the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and was successfully discharged in 2015 and thereafter, he proceeded to Abuja for greener pastures.
Driven by a desire for continuous improvement, Engr. Darlington earned an honorary Doctorate Degree Award (Honoris Causa) from the American European University, Lome, Togo in 2021. Engr. Darlington embarked on a successful career in engineering.
His expertise encompasses various fields, including civil engineering and project management. He has been involved in numerous projects that have significantly contributed to infrastructure development across Nigeria, showcasing his commitment to improving the quality of life in his community.
Chief Engr. Dr. Darlington Friday Ugota is a visionary entrepreneur, innovative leader, and accomplished engineer, renowned for his groundbreaking contributions to youth empowerment and job creation in Nigeria. He is the Chairman of the following establishments; Esthington Group of Companies, Esthington Energy Limited, Esthington Football Club and Esthington Empowerment Foundation. Others are Davi Foods Limited, Double King Construction Limited, Viugo Oil and Gas Limited.
Through the various well-established platforms above, he currently has over 500 hundred employees and partners. He is a registered Engineer with COREN; a member of Nigerian Society of Engineers and a member of Real Estate Developers’ Association of Nigeria (REDAN) amongst others
In 2022, he was conferred the United Nations Ambassador for Peace Award by the United Nation’s Positive Livelihood Award Centre (UN- POLAC). This is one amongst the numerous recognitions from reputable organizations/institutions. In December 2024, he was honoured and conferred with a Chieftaincy title by his people as the Aka Jimba 1 of Ezza Nation and this is in recognition of his numerous contributions and empowerment of his community
In addition to his professional achievements, Engr. Darlington is a devoted family
man. He is married to Mrs. Esther Darlington Ugota, and together they are blessed
with three lovely children. Darlington is deeply committed to instilling strong values and a sense of responsibility in his children, preparing them to navigate the world with integrity and purpose.
Chief Engr. Dr. Darlington Friday Ugota is also known for his philanthropic endeavors. He believes in the power of giving back to the community and has initiated various charitable projects aimed at uplifting those in need. His efforts include supporting educational initiatives for underprivileged children, providing resources for local schools, providing relief materials and engaging in health care programs that address the needs of his community. About 100 youths are beneficiary of his Esthington Empowerment foundation’s educational scholarship programmes. He has overtime, sponsored some persons overseers to further their education/career.
The widows are definitely not left out as he often reaches out to them with support materials. Through his philanthropy, Engr. Darlington seeks to inspire others to contribute positively to society and to create opportunities for future generations. Legacy and Vision As he continues to excel in his engineering career, real estate and philanthropic efforts, Chief Engr. Dr. Darlington Friday Ugota remains dedicated to making a lasting impact in Nigeria. His vision encompasses not only furthering his professional achievements but also expanding his outreach to support and empower his community.
As he locks 36, Pacemedia Nigeria Limited, Initiative for Youth Development and Impact Makers in Nigeria, and the Peoples’ Guide Newspaper, join other well meaning friends and associates to wish him many more fruitful years of impact on earth. Happy birthday great impact maker @36.