● Ferdy Agu
Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, at the weekend led an impressive array of dignitaries and political leaders to celebrate Nigeria’s elder statesman and former Governor of old Anambra State, Senator Jim Ifeanyichukwu Nwobodo, on the occasion of his 85th birthday.
Speaking at the state-organised event held at Senator Nwobodo’s country home in Amechi Awkunanaw, Enugu, Governor Mbah paid glowing tribute to the octogenarian, describing him as “a priceless gift to humanity” and “a charismatic, yet unassuming leader.
Gov Mbah (right), Jim Nwobodo (middle) and wife, Patricia. (Photo credit: Enugu Govt House Press)
“It will be difficult to find words that amply capture the true essence of what Dr. Jim Ifeanyichukwu Nwobodo represents,” Mbah said. “Your life is living proof that the true value of existence is selfless service. Nothing endears one to his people more than that—and that is exactly what you epitomise.”
He praised Nwobodo’s enduring legacy across various stages of his public life—governor, minister, senator, and elder statesman – stressing that the celebrant’s record remained unmatched in many areas of national development.
“As Governor at 39, you left legacies that still inspire. As Minister of Youth and Sports, your record remains unbeatable and is still referenced with pride across Nigeria. As a Senator of the Federal Republic, you were an embodiment of courage and patriotism. We are indeed very proud of you,” Mbah declared.
Some Local Government Council Chairmen at the event, Friday. (Photo credit: Enugu Govt House Press)
Governor Mbah also emphasized the value of honouring great individuals while they are alive: “We celebrate 85 years of a truly impactful journey. You have provided shoulders for countless leaders to stand on. You are, without doubt, a priceless gift to Enugu State and our nation.”
In his response, Senator Jim Nwobodo lauded Governor Mbah’s leadership style, describing him as “a God-ordained success” and a leader who listens.
“Today, Peter is a success -whether anybody likes it or not,” Nwobodo said. “The results speak for him. What he is doing in Enugu today is God-inspired. He listens, and he reflects. That is how you know a leader that would go far.”
The elder statesman also expressed deep gratitude to the governor for organising the event, stating that the celebration affirmed the importance of honouring people during their lifetimes.
“I didn’t expect this level of celebration, but the Governor insisted,” Nwobodo remarked. “He said it was better to celebrate people while they are still alive – to say all the beautiful things to their hearing. For that, I thank him sincerely, and I thank all of you who came to share this moment with me.”
The birthday event attracted key figures including former Governor of Enugu State, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi; Deputy Governor, Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai; members of the Enugu State Executive Council; serving and former federal and state lawmakers; council chairmen led by the ALGON State Chairman, Hon. Okechukwu Edeh; as well as a delegation of traditional rulers led by the Chairman of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, His Majesty, Igwe Samuel Ikechukwu Asadu. GMTNewsng
