The Alema of Warri Kingdom in Delta State, a lover of the Itsekiri people and a philanthropist per excellence, Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduagha, recently marked his 55th birthday, with family members, political associates, friends and well-wishers, painting the pages of the newspapers, particularly Vanguard with warm messages of goodwill and well-wishes for him.
Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan is a cousin to two former governors of Delta State, Chief James OnanefeIbori and Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, and husband of the Senator, representing Kogi West in the Nigerian Senate, Sen Natasha Akpoti Uduagham.
He is the Chief Executive Officer of Webster Group of Companies and was crowned Alema of Warri kingdom in a grand ceremony held in 2017 because of his love for the Itsekiri people and contributions to the welfare of the people in terms of poverty alleviation and youth empowerment.
Beyond that, he is a great philanthropist, who has provided grants for research in some universities and has instituted commendable welfare programmes, such as scholarships and loan schemes for enterprising market women.
He was at one time, Special Assistant to former Governor James Ibori. He joined partisan politics as a member of the defunct Grassroots Democratic Movement (GDM) and later became a foundation member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State.
Information in the media space has it that, Chief Oritsejolomi Uduaghan was honoured with the title, Elema of Warri Kingdom by the late Olu of Warri, His Majesty, Ogiame Nkenwoli.
The event brought together, the local and global communities with key actors in government across the country, members of the diplomatic corps and entrepreneurs from all the states of the federation.
Palace sources disclosed that Oritsejolomi is a successful businessman, whose love for the Itsekiri people and the change he is making in their lives in the areas of poverty alleviation and youth empowerment has remained legendary.
Despite his wealth and popularity, this young Itsekiri man has remained humble and committed to his business and has consistently been a source of hope, joy and empowerment to many, regardless of tribe. He is a thoroughly good man, they say.
For a man who identifies with his people, and has used his popularity and wealth to positively impact lives, and those who have crossed his path, it was not a surprise that, when he clocked 55, the media space was awash with eulogies and messages of love and goodwill for him.
In the Sunday Vanguard of the week of his birthday celebration, he alone had 21 full-page colour adverts from people, rejoicing and celebrating with him.
Among those who congratulated him on his 55th birthday was Dr. Monday Agbeyi, who said of him…”Sir, your grim determination, boldness, fearless approach to life and unwavering commitment to achieving desired goals is highly commendable. Indeed, you have earned the respect of everyone with your exceptional qualities and remarkable achievements, which have made many of us desire to follow in your footsteps to further better the lots of the greatest majority in our community”…
Rt. Hon Friday Osanebi, has this to say of him, ‘’Big brother, you are a role model to the Nigerian youth, and because of you, many of our youths who would have been roaming the streets today are gainfully employed. You have set legacies that will stand the test of time, and I know that everything you have achieved in the years past will be nothing compared to what’s to come. So, be ready for the best part of your life…”
And for the Executive Chairman of Warri South Local Government Area, Hon Agbateyinro Isaac…”We celebrate a man who has distinguished himself in all spheres of life, business, politics, community development and philanthropy, locally, nationally and continentally…”
Yet, for another, Raycon and Company Nigeria Ltd, it had this to say…”Today, we honour a man of exceptional leadership, integrity and vision. Today, we celebrate his legacy, unwavering dedication to the betterment of society, selfless service and contributions to Nigeria. Certainly, Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan’s commitment to the Niger Delta development, economic prosperity, education and entrepreneurship has inspired generations.
“As the Alema of Warri, you have continued to promote the rich cultural heritage of the Warri people, while your business acumen as CEO of Webster Group has created opportunities for economic growth and development …”
On his part, the Omeifeoma 1 of Umuebu Kingdom, Sir Kenny Okolugbo has this to say of him…”We have known each other for decades but I keep admiring your courage and tenacity even in the face of adversity in making decisions and making your impact felt all around…”
However, the Alema-In-Council, management committee, youths, women and the entire Abigborodo Community in Warri North Local Government Area have this to say, “Alema, as you celebrate today, we also celebrate you. We celebrate your kindness and generosity. We fondly recall your numerous philanthropic activities which have far-reaching impacts on the lives of the beneficiaries of your milk of human kindness. Indeed, we cherish the countless memories we’ve shared. We pray for many more years of love, laughter and adventure together.”
