It was a moment of heartfelt tributes and celebration on Friday, as family, friends, political allies, and well-wishers gathered at the Abuja residence of former Deputy Governor of Imo State, Engr. Gerald Irona, to mark his 59th birthday.

Dr Walter Duru cheers former Imo state Deputy gov. and the his wife on his birthday

Speakers hailed Irona as a principled, dependable, and courageous leader whose legacy continues to inspire trust and admiration.

The atmosphere brimmed with admiration as speaker after speaker paid glowing tributes to Engr. Irona, describing him as a dependable, courageous, and principled leader whose legacy continues to inspire across political and social divides.

In their separate remarks, three former members of the House of Representatives – Hon. Ikenga Mayor Eze, Hon. Jeff Ojinika, and Hon. ThankGod Ezeani, praised Irona’s unwavering commitment to justice and fairness, describing him as a relentless crusader for equity and good governance.

“Irona is dependable. He does not tolerate injustice in any form,” they affirmed. “He is steadfast and upright, always willing to stand for what is right, even in the face of adversity.”

Echoing similar sentiments, former Secretary to the Government of Imo State and ex-federal lawmaker, Hon. Uche Onyeagucha, hailed Irona as “a man of truth who consistently chooses the path of justice, regardless of whose ox is gored.”

Also lending his voice, former Director of Public Affairs at the Nigeria Agip Oil Company, Barry Nwibani, reflected on over two decades of personal friendship and professional admiration. “Engr. Irona’s consistency, integrity, and lifestyle remain exemplary. He represents the kind of leadership Nigeria yearns for – credible, courageous, and selfless.”

In a heartfelt tribute posted on his verified Facebook page, former Governor of Imo State, Chief Emeka Ihedioha, described Irona as “a trusted pillar of steadfast loyalty.” The former Governor used the opportunity to also celebrate the Director General of the Rebuild Imo Movement, Dr. Vin Udokwu, who marked his 68th birthday on the same day.

The message, titled “Honouring Two Steadfast Allies,” read in part:

“To the glory of God, I celebrate two exceptional men – Rt. Hon. Gerald Irona, my trusted Deputy in Imo, as he turns 59, and Dr. Vin Udokwu, our devoted Director General of the Rebuild Imo Movement, marking 68 remarkable years.

Over time, these two gentlemen have proven to be trusted pillars of steadfast loyalty, exemplary character, and resolute commitment. Their dedication to service and the shared vision for Imo has inspired confidence and hope across the state and beyond.”

In his remarks during a virtual chat, former lawmaker representing Oguta State Constituency at the Imo State House of Assembly, Hon. Frank Ugboma stressed that

“His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Gerald A. Irona is not just a leader but an inspiration to many of us who look up to his courage and commitment to service. Celebrating him at 59 is celebrating excellence, resilience, and uncommon grace.”

Irona’s wife, Ogbuefi Vivian Irona, in a special birthday message, described Irona as a selfless leader. Her message reads in part – “today, I celebrate not just your birth, but the man you are- strong, yet gentle, visionary, yet humble, courageous, yet compassionate.”

“Your life of service, both to your family and to the people of Imo State speaks volumes of your character – selfless, noble, and deeply inspiring.”

Adding his voice, former Chairman of Oru West Local Government Area of Imo State, Ken Akunnakwe stressed that “in Hon. Gerald Irona, I found a humble, loyal, consistent, and practical politician. He is a man of few words who leads by example. Beyond his kindness, Irona is deeply grateful to those who have contributed to his journey.

Beyond Abuja, the 59th birthday of Engr. Irona was also celebrated by associates and supporters at various locations in Imo State, including the ‘Rebuild Imo movement’, reflecting the wide-reaching admiration he enjoys for his leadership, integrity, and principled politics.

Chike Walter Duru, Ph.D
(Associate Professor of Mass Communication),
Communication Consultant to the Former Deputy Governor of Imo State,
Hon. Engr. Gerald Irona

It was an outpouring from family, friends and associates as the wife of the President of the Senate, Mrs Ekaette Unoma Godswill Akpabio marked her 54th birthday at a ceremony in her country home in Ukana, Essien Udim Local Government Area.

Leading the charge, Senate President Godswill Akpabio in an emotional tribute declared to her: “be assured of my love forever. My dear wife, words cannot describe my joy as you add another year to your age today.

“Your life is replete with positive impact on humanity. Your love for fellow women, children and the less privileged in our society will continue to be celebrated.

“You made my tenure as Governor of Akwa Ibom State exceptional when as the First Lady of the State 2007 – 2015 you initiated numerous programmes through the Family Life Enhancement Initiative (FLEI) which changed frowns to smiles on the faces of thousands of Akwa Ibom people. Your good deeds especially your humility in the service of our women, children and the vulnerable shall never be forgotten.

“Even out of office as the First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, you have continued to impact lives through numerous empowerment initiatives, medical outreaches and other interventions like building houses for widows and the vulnerable.

“My family is blessed to have a God-fearing wife/mother like you,” he said.

Senator Akpabio expressed profound gratitude to his wife for her unwavering support to him, their children, and the people of Akwa Ibom, and presented her with a special birthday card, offering heartfelt prayers and goodwill messages.

President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, described Mrs as a role model and commended her significant contributions to national development through various empowerment initiatives.

Deputy Whip of the Senate, Senator Onyekachi Nwaebonyi, described Mrs Akpabio as a prayerful and supportive woman who has been steadfast in her support and encouragement of her husband’s political journey and leadership. He wished her many more years in her service to humanity.

An obviously overwhelmed celebrant, Mrs Akpabio thanked the husband for his love and support for her over the years of their marriage.

“Thank you my dear husband for your love and for always supporting me always. Thank you for loving me. I want to reassure you once again of my love, support and loyalty to you,” she said.

She expressed her heartfelt appreciation to the guests for their unwavering support, prayers and goodwill.

The celebration reached its peak with the ceremonial cutting of the birthday cake, followed by exchange of gifts from friends and well-wishers.

By George Mgbeleke

Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I. Jibrin has rejoiced with Muslims in the country on the Eid-El-Kabir celebration, emphasising the importance of unity among the citizens.

In a special Sallah message signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, Senator Barau urged Muslims and indeed all Nigerians to use the occasion to pray for peace, unity and the country’s progress.

Senator Barau, who is the First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, called on Nigerians to continue to pray for the well-being of the country and to offer their full support to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, adding that the President is genuinely working for peace and socio-economic prosperity of the Nation.

“I wish Muslims, and indeed all Nigerians, a memorable Eid-El-Kabir. This season reminds us to obey Allah’s instructions, as exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim. True Muslims should adhere to peace, tolerance, justice, and charity.

“In the spirit of this season, irrespective of our faith, let us rededicate and commit ourselves to the dreams and aspirations of building a strong, united, and economically sound country.

” President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated strong leadership and genuine commitment in addressing our country’s challenges. In the last two years, he has succeeded to a considerable extent in tackling our security challenges and stimulating our economy. By the grace of God, the fruit of the efforts will benefit all. We are on the path to prosperity,” he said.

To consolidate the successes recorded under this administration, Senator Barau said the National Assembly will continue formulating the necessary legislation to support the President in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda, designed to restore the country’s glorious days.

Eid Mubarak!