BY EBI NIEKETIEN
IT was a moment of celebration as family, friends, associates and well-wishers converged to celebrate with the former permanent secretary, Government House and Protocol and currently, Chairman, State Pensions Bureau, Sir Edwin Ogidi-Gbegbaje as he marked his 60th birthday in Ekpan.
A thanksgiving mass was held at St. Ambrose Catholic Church, Ekpan with reception at KFT Event Centre, Ekpan.
The officiating priest, the Rev. Fr. Tega Ogbeni, in his homily said birthdays are more than just a reminder of the passing of years, but an opportunity to reflect and give thanks to God for physical and spiritual growth.
According to him, it also served as an annual reminder of the importance of gratitude, just like the leper in the Bible that returned to give thanks to God after he was healed.
He said “as Christians, whenever we attain a milestone in our lives the first thing we should do is to give thanks.”
“Sometimes when God blesses us we forget to show gratitude. That is why I want to thank our brother for deeming it fit to return to appreciate God.
“God is always there for us and whatever gift we receive in love we should first of all give thanks.”
The Catholic Priest urged the celebrant to use the opportunity to show love, build the younger generation and continue to reach out to people yet to stand on their feet.
The celebrant said he was excited stepping into the ‘sixth floor’, so has several reasons to be grateful to God Almighty who has done so much for him.
Ogidi-Gbegbaje said that his story was a wonderful one that would inspire people, adding that, despite the difficulties he faced during his early days, he held steadfast to God, and was grateful for the heights he has attained in life.
He thanked those who came from far and wide to honor him and partake in the joyous moment, and prayed that God would grant everyone of them journey mercies.
Chairman of the occasion, and Commissioner for Works (Rural and Riverine Roads) Hon. Charles Aniagwu described the celebrant as a man who exemplifies love and knows how to build bridges.
While praying for God to bless him with a healthy life, Aniagwu urged the celebrant to remain who he is and continue to impact his environment as he has always done.
Present at the occasion was the representative of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Chief of Staff, Government House, Prince Johnson Erijo, Ovie of Uvwie, His Royal Majesty, Dr. Emmanuel Sideso, immediate past Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) State Chairman, Kingsley Esisio, Chairman, Delta State Board of Internal Revenue, Solomon Ighrakpata, representative of the Head of Service, the Director General, State Orientation Bureau, Dr. Oghenesivbe Latimore, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Festus Ahon and a host of top government functionaries and business leaders.
