By Mokobia Rita.
IDUMUJE-GBOKO/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Saturday joined prominent personalities, family members and well-wishers in Idumuju-Ugboko, Aniocha North Local Government Area, to celebrate the remarkable centenary birthday of Pa Emmanuel Ogbechie, describing the revered patriarch as a symbol of discipline, sacrifice and enduring family values.
The thanksgiving and centenary celebration held at St. Matthew’s Anglican Church, Idumuju-Ugboko, drew dignitaries from across the country who gathered to honour the father of the Managing Director of RainOil Group, Engr. Gabriel Ogbechie, for a lifetime marked by faith, hard work and commitment to humanity.
Speaking at the event, Governor Oborevwori described Pa Emmanuel Ogbechie as a fulfilled father whose exemplary lifestyle and dedication to his family had become a source of inspiration to younger generations.
The Governor said attaining the age of 100 was not only a rare blessing from God but also evidence of a life built on faith, diligence, peace and purposeful living.
According to him, the celebrant’s greatest accomplishment was not merely his longevity, but the legacy he built through the quality upbringing and moral foundation he gave to his children.
He commended Pa Ogbechie for making enormous sacrifices to ensure his children received sound education and proper upbringing, noting that the success, unity and accomplishments recorded by the family today were products of years of commitment and parental investment.
Governor Oborevwori particularly applauded Engr. Gabriel Ogbechie and other members of the family for maintaining strong ties with their roots despite attaining remarkable success in business and other endeavours.
He noted that the family had continued to play significant roles in the growth of their community and the church, describing their contributions as reflections of genuine love for their people and commitment to development.
The Governor also expressed admiration for the deep bond shared between the celebrant and his children, saying the atmosphere of unity and affection witnessed during the celebration was evidence of a fulfilled and impactful life.
“When people talk about enjoying the fruits of labour, this is a clear example. Papa is truly reaping the rewards of raising his children in the right way,” Oborevwori stated.
He prayed for sustained peace, unity and God’s blessings upon the Ogbechie family and the people of Aniocha North, while thanking God for preserving the celebrant in good health and strength at the age of 100.
Governor Oborevwori further appreciated the support and goodwill he had consistently received from the Ogbechie family, assuring them of his administration’s continued commitment to the advancement and development of Delta State.
Speaking on behalf of the family, the Managing Director of RainOil Group, Engr. Gabriel Ogbechie, expressed profound gratitude to his father for the sacrifices and unwavering dedication he invested in raising the family.
He described Pa Emmanuel Ogbechie as a disciplined, selfless and hardworking father who devoted his life to ensuring that his children acquired quality education and strong moral values despite limited resources at the time.
Delivering the sermon, Venerable Christian Okonkwo congratulated the centenarian and commended both the celebrant and his family for their steadfast support and contributions to the church.
The cleric described the centenary celebration as a powerful testimony of God’s faithfulness, noting that Pa Emmanuel Ogbechie, regarded as the oldest man in his quarter, remained a symbol of wisdom, history and inspiration within the community.
He urged Christians to remain grateful to God and live righteous lives in order to enjoy long life and fulfilment, stressing the importance of fearing God, honouring parents, embracing peace, love and forgiveness, and remaining steadfast in faith.
