Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has eulogised the oldest man in Oguta, Chief Christopher Nwapa, on the occasion of his 90th birthday celebration held on Saturday at his country home, noting that the celebrant was instrumental to the civilisation in his area and beyond.
In his remarks at the thanksgiving service held in the honour of Chief Nwapa at his compound, Governor Uzodimma described the nonegenarian as one of those that championed civilization and development in Oguta Local Government Area.
His words: “Ajie C-Fine Nwapa was part of the cradle of civilization in Oguta and this part of the world. Ajie Nwapa is among the people the younger generations are looking up to in mastering the acts of hard work for the overall benefits of the people.”
Governor Uzodimma also prayed God to continue to keep the celebrant in good health.
In honour of the celebrant described as a devout Christian of the Anglican Faith by the Clergy who officiated the Thanksgiving Service, Governor Uzodimma promised to donate a bus as requested by the Church, the Cathedral Church of St Mary Magdalene, Oguta, for evangelism and work of God.
Welcoming the Governor and other guests, an in-law of the celebrant and a prominent son of Oguta, Chief Ernest Nwapa, described his father-in-law as a devout Christian, hardworking and peaceful man.
He said his father in-law resisted any plan to postpone the celebration of his 90th birthday for an elaborate one, at least with the Church.
Nwapa, who is the Chairman of the Governing Council of the Imo State University expressed appreciation at the presence of Governor Uzodimma despite the very short notice he gave to him over his father in-law’s 90th birthday celebration.
On his own, the celebrant commended Governor Uzodimma over the good works he is doing in Imo State and prayed God to lavish him with strength and wisdom he needs to provide selfless services to the people.
The Governor was accompanied by the Chief of Staff, Barr Nnamdi Anyaehie and some members of the State Expanded Executive Council.