ABUJA/Nigeria: Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, Senator Ede Dafinone, has paid glowing tribute to former President-General of the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU), Chief Engr. Joe Omene, on the occasion of his 80th birthday anniversary, describing him as an elder statesman, exemplary leader and one of the foremost champions of the Urhobo nation.
Dafinone said Chief Omene’s life has been marked by dedication, selfless service and an unwavering commitment to the preservation of the cultural heritage, unity and progress of the Urhobo people.
In a goodwill message released on Saturday to commemorate the milestone, the lawmaker joined family members, associates and the entire Urhobo nation in celebrating the octogenarian, whose leadership and contributions, he said, have left an enduring impact on the socio-cultural and political development of Urhobo land.
“On behalf of the good people of Delta Central Senatorial District, I warmly felicitate with a leader, an elder statesman and former President-General of the Urhobo Progress Union, Chief Engr. Joe Omene, as he celebrates his 80th birthday anniversary today,” Dafinone stated.
The senator commended Omene’s remarkable contributions to the promotion and preservation of Urhobo culture, identity, values and traditions, noting that his tenure as President-General of the UPU came at a critical period in the history of the Urhobo nation.
According to Dafinone, Omene’s courageous leadership and consistent advocacy for the unity, dignity and advancement of the Urhobo people earned him widespread respect and admiration across Delta State and beyond.
He noted that the former UPU leader remained a symbol of commitment, integrity and community service, adding that his sacrifices over the years contributed significantly to strengthening the collective heritage and aspirations of the Urhobo people.
“As he attains this golden age of 80 years, I commend his wisdom, courage and sacrifices in serving the Urhobo people and contributing to the growth of our collective heritage. His life of service continues to inspire younger generations to uphold the values of unity, integrity and commitment to community development,” the senator said.
Dafinone further described the celebrant as a reservoir of wisdom whose counsel and experience continue to benefit the Urhobo nation and society at large.
He prayed for God’s continued blessings upon Chief Omene, wishing him good health, renewed strength, peace and many more years of fruitful service to humanity.
“I pray that Almighty God will continue to bless Chief Engr. Joe Omene with good health, renewed strength, peace and many more fruitful years as he continues to offer his wealth of experience and wisdom in the service of the Urhobo nation and humanity,” he added.
Chief Joe Omene, a respected leader and former President-General of the Urhobo Progress Union, is widely regarded as one of the prominent voices in the advancement of the Urhobo cause and the promotion of peace, unity and development in the Niger Delta region.
