WARRI/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has praised the grace of God in the life of the Chairman of Maton Engineering Limited, Matthew Tonlagha, describing the large turnout at his 50th birthday thanksgiving ceremony as a reflection of a life marked by service, resilience and positive impact on humanity.
Speaking at the thanksgiving service held in Warri, Governor Oborevwori said the testimonies shared during the celebration were worthy of emulation, noting that the gathering underscored the many lives the celebrant had touched over the years.
“I am particularly happy for you because I know your story. For ten good years, you could not walk. That is not a small period. But God sustained you, and He is still sustaining you. God will continue to reward your service to humanity,” the governor said.
He observed that Tonlagha’s goodwill and generosity had drawn people from across Warri and beyond, with guests cutting across different parts of the country to celebrate with him.
According to the governor, the presence of prominent personalities, clergymen and the novelty football match between Bayelsa and Delta States organised in his honour highlighted Tonlagha’s wide acceptance and influence.
Governor Oborevwori also used the occasion to reaffirm his administration’s commitment to peace and security in Delta State, stressing that peace remains a top priority of his government.
He explained that the sustained peace being enjoyed in the state is the result of collective efforts by security agencies, host communities and government-led engagement programmes designed to keep youths meaningfully engaged.
“Peace remains our priority. The security agencies are doing their part, communities are doing their part, and government is also doing its part by engaging our people and taking many off the streets,” the governor said.
He further urged individuals and organisations benefiting economically from the state to invest back into Delta, assuring investors of a safe and conducive environment.
“Anyone who makes money from this state should invest in this state. This land is good. I was born here, raised here, and nothing will happen to anyone who invests here,” he added.
The governor paid glowing tribute to Tonlagha’s wife for her unwavering support, describing her as a dependable partner who stood by her husband even during difficult moments. He also celebrated the celebrant’s mother and mother-in-law for their steadfast support, offering prayers for God’s continued blessings upon them.
In his sermon, Emmanuel Kalejaiye, Continental Overseer, South-West Nigeria and Middle East of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, delivered a brief exhortation titled “A Worthy Life,” drawn from Psalm 90:12. He described a worthy life as one that reverences God and remains a blessing to mankind, adding that thanksgiving is a public expression of gratitude demonstrated through words and actions.
In his testimony, Tonlagha thanked God for the grace of attaining the age of 50, describing himself as truly blessed. He paid special tribute to all mothers, particularly his own, whom he described as his pillar of strength, and celebrated his wife, noting that their union is built on mutual counsel and understanding.
The celebrant concluded the thanksgiving by leading the congregation in seven resounding hallelujahs, expressing gratitude to God, whom he acknowledged as the source of his victory over numerous life challenges, including polio.
