Former African track queen, Chief Mary Onyali MFR and Air commodore Darlinton Egbunu Abdulahi (rtd) have been appointed NTIC Ambassadors by the Nigerian Tulip International Colleges(NTIC).
In a colourful event held on Thursday, 12th February, 2026 in Abuja, Mary Onyali was formally conferred with the ambassadorial honour alongside retired Air Commodore Darlington Abdullahi , a former Director, Military and National Strategy, at the National Defence College.
According to organizers, the conferment and investiture of NTIC Ambassadors to Onyali and Abdulahi was in recognition of their distinguished service to the nation, integrity, commitment to education and youth development.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Managing Director of NTIC, Feyzullah Bilgin, highlighted the significance of the ambassadorial appointments of Onyali and Abdullahi as well as the contributions of staff to the institution’s growth over its 28-year history.
In his words: “Their conferment as NTIC ambassadors is therefore not merely honorary, but is also intentional and educational, serving as a living reference point and legacy for our students to aspire toward positive impact and responsible leadership and the continuous pursuit of becoming the best versions of themselves as students in their chosen endeavors for the future.”
A citation to Mary Onyali’s appointment, stated, “Mary Onyali’s life is a powerful testament to perseverance, discipline, and the transformative power of learning.”
“Mary Onyali was chosen as an NTIC Ambassador because her life embodies excellence, humility, resilience, and service. Her ability to inspire young people across diverse backgrounds makes her a fitting representative of NTIC’s mission and vision.”
In an acceptance speech ,Onyali, a five –time Olympian and 1994 Commonwealth Games Gold medalist said she is elated for the honour as youth empowerment through sports has been her life’s dream.
“Today is one of the happiest moments in my life because the two reasons why I left the United States after retiring from active sports back to Nigeria are youth empowerment through sports, and the yearning for education,” said Onyali.
“We are fully aware of the level NTIC has reached so far, and with the ambassadorial position you have given to me and my brother, Abdullahi (retd.), we are committed to taking it even further.
“We will expand its impact many times over. NTIC’s presence will be strongly felt, and the world will recognize and acknowledge the great work you are doing.” She added.
Another ambassadorial honouree, Air Commodore Darlington Abdullahi , a former Director, Military and National Strategy at the National Defence College had his citation read; “Retired Air Commodore Darlinton Abdullahi’s life exemplifies “discipline, lifelong learning, and selfless service.”
“Abdullahi’s life reflects the balance NTIC seeks to instil in its students: intellectual curiosity, emotional stability, moral strength, and social responsibility,” the citation further said.
Abdulahi, while thanking the management of NTIC for the award urged parents to extend educational opportunities to other children.
In his words: “If you have the means, please sponsor at least one child to get a sound education, just like your children are having. Because if you do not give them that opportunity, they may make life unbearable for your children in the future”.
The event also saw the college honour 61 staff members from its campuses in Lagos, Kano, Yobe, Kaduna and Abuja who have served for more than 15 years.
The honourees received appreciation gifts, including 13 months’ salary.
Speaking on the long service awards to staffs, the Managing Director of NTIC, Feyzullah Bilgin said, “First of all, I would like to appreciate all NTIC staff members, and most importantly, the 61 staff who have been part of NTIC’s journey in the past 28 years.
“So dear staff of NTIC who have been here with us for more than 15 years, your patience, your dedication and perseverance are always well noticed and appreciated by NTIC management. Seeing you all here today is proof of loyalty and a strong sense of belonging.”
The event, which took place at NTIC Abuja Conference Hall, was attended by the Board Members of NTIC, Parents, delegates from the Ministry of Education, NTIC Alumni and various dignitaries from all walks of life.
