Delta state Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated his predecessor and former Senator, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa as he clocks 67.
The governor, in a goodwill message by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, in Asaba on Wednesday, joined family members, friends, political associates and well-wishers in celebrating Sen. Okowa on his birth anniversary.
He paid tribute to the former governor’s decades of public service, describing his political journey as one defined by God’s grace, commitment, experience and dedication to the advancement of Delta and Nigeria.
He said Okowa had built an impressive record of service across different levels of government.
Oborevwori said that Okowa began his political career as Secretary of the defunct Ika Local Government Council.
“Okowa later became the pioneer Chairman, Ika North-East LGA; rose to the position of Commissioner, Secretary to the State Government, Senator of the Federal Republic and, ultimately, Governor of Delta State for two consecutive terms,” he said.
He said that the former governor’s extensive experience in governance and politics, coupled with his passion for development, had earned him a prominent place in the political history of the state.
He said that Okowa’s eight years as governor witnessed significant interventions across critical sectors, adding that his administration contributed to the development trajectory upon which the state continues to advance.
“On behalf of my family, the government and people of Delta State, I warmly congratulate our distinguished leader and former governor, Senator, (Dr) Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, CON, on the celebration of his 67th birth anniversary.
“Your journey through public service has been remarkable, reflecting years of sacrifice, resilience and commitment to the progress of our people.
“From the grassroots to the highest level of the state and national service, you have continued to demonstrate a profound understanding of governance and leadership.
“You remain a respected political leader and statesman whose experience, strategic insight and contributions to the growth of Delta State are deeply appreciated.
“Your tenure as governor left important footprints in the development of our state, while your continuing commitment to peace, unity and progress remains worthy of commendation,” he said.
Oborevwori said that he was joining Okowa’s family, friends, associates and admirers in thanking Almighty God for His faithfulness in his life, “as he celebrates this significant milestone.”
He urged God to continue to bless him with sound health, renewed strength, wisdom, peace and many more fulfilling years of service to humanity, Delta and Nigeria.
Similarly, Governor l Oborevwori yesterday congratulated the Pere of Akugbene-Mein domain, King Stanley Luke-Kalanama VIII as he clocked 60.
The governor’s felicitation was conveyed in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Festus Ahon on Wednesday in Warri.
Oborevwori noted that the royal father’s leadership, wisdom and commitment to peace and development had continued to make significant impact in his domain and across the state.
He said the over 28 years of the king’s dedicated service on the throne had been marked by purposeful leadership, stability and sustained advocacy for the welfare of his people.
“Your 28 years on the throne have been characterised by dedicated service, wise counsel and an unwavering commitment to the progress of your people and the advancement of the traditional institution in Delta,” he said.
The governor said that the king had earned widespread respect as one of the state’s articulate and influential traditional rulers.
According to Oborevwori, the voice and contributions of the royal father had strengthened the traditional institution and advanced constructive engagement on issues affecting the state.
The governor acknowledged the king’s years of service within the Delta Traditional Rulers Council.
He recalled that the king had earlier served as Second Vice Chairman before rising to his present position as First Vice Chairman of the state’s Traditional Rulers Council.
The governor lauded the royal father’s passion for human capital development, particularly his investment in education through scholarship opportunities for deserving subjects of Akugbene-Mein domain.
He emphasised that the king’s support for education reflected a deep understanding of the role of knowledge and youth empowerment in building stronger communities and securing a better future for the upcoming generations.
“On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I warmly congratulate King Stanley Perediegha Luke-Kalanama VIII, Pere of Akugbene-Mein domain on the joyous occasion of his 60th birth anniversary on July 8.
“As you celebrate this important milestone, it is my prayer that Almighty God will continue to bless you with sound health, greater wisdom, strength and many more fruitful years of service to your people, Delta and our dear country,” Oborevwori said.