The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos and Seyi Makinde of Oyo States have joined other prominent Nigerians and numerous admirers to celebrate with Enugu State Governor, Rt. Hon. Lawrence Ifeanyichukwu Ugwuanyi as he clocks 58 today, March 20, 2022.
In a message to felicitate with the two-term Governor of the Coal city state, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, in a statement by Chiedozie Alex Ogbonnia, National Publicity Secretary, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, said the organisation “has followed the life trajectory of Ugwuanyi with keen interest and admiration.
“Both at the St Theresa’s College Nsukka and the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Ugwuanyi had shown profound signs of greatness. In the Insurance industry, he attained the topmost echelon. At the Nigerian National Assembly, he warmed the hearts of his constituents and garnered sufficient goodwill that propelled him to the Lion Building, Enugu.
“Ugwuanyi has since his assumption of Office as a Governor carved a niche for himself as a man of peace. He is a Christian of New Testament dispositions; compassionate, allergic to delusion and megalomania. Perhaps, due to his modest background, Ugwuanyi exudes disarming humility, empathy, charity and benevolence.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo notes with immense admiration that as the 2023 general election gains momentum, Enugu State stands out among the other states in Nigeria, in terms of very delicate management of persons of diverse political and ideological persuasions. The Ugwuanyi open sesame enables all the major political gladiators of Enugu State to relate harmoniously and exchange views under one umbrella. This is an unprecedented Enugu phenomenon; a unique and amazing dimension in political geometry where two or more parallel lines meet.
“The ripple effect of the Ugwuanyi social paradigm is the characteristic Enugu peaceful ambience which has attracted residential buildings, students and cash inflow by eminent Igbos from other states. Apart from the revenue derivatives, Enugu is fast becoming a mega city as a result of enormous human influx.”
Ohanaeze, the statement said further, “salutes this great patriotic Nigerian, a moral edifice, democracy archetype, consensus builder, unassuming persona, rural infrastructural exponent and beacon of greatness.
“The President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Ambassador Professor George Obiozor qualifies Ugwuanyi as a perfect gentleman; a man who keeps agreement and navigates his ways with little or no frictions.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo congratulates His Excellency, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, the Gburugburu of our time, Eze Udo Enugu State, as he climbs up, most gracefully. It is our fervent prayers that God will grant Your Excellency many more years in good health, peace of mind and prosperity,” it concluded.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, in his congratulatory message, issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, congratulated Gov. Ugwuanyi, describing him as “a committed and selfless public servant.”
He said Governor Ugwuanyi has contributed in no small measure to the growth and development of Enugu State and Nigeria at large as a governor and former federal lawmaker.
Sanwo-Olu, who also described Ugwuanyi as a “visionary leader,” said the Enugu State number one citizen, has displayed pragmatic leadership with selflessness and dedication by rendering quality service to people at the state and national levels in the last 16 years.
“On behalf of my adorable wife, Ibijoke, and the good people of Lagos State, I join family, friends, political associates and the people of Enugu State to congratulate my dear brother, Governor Ugwuanyi on his 58th birthday.
“Governor Ugwuanyi’s input in the growth and development of Enugu is pragmatic testament to his visionary leadership. His developmental strides in Enugu State and national growth are noticeable in different areas of endeavours.
“His penchant for diligence is evident in his contributions toward the development of Nigeria’s socio-economic and political landscape based on his service to the nation as a member of the House of Representatives before assuming his current status as Governor of Enugu State.
“On this occasion of his 58th birthday, I wish my brother good health and wisdom as he continues to render more service to humanity, his state and our dear country,” Governor Sanwo-Olu said.
By David Adeoye
Ibadan, March 20, 2022
Gov. Makinde, in his statement in Ibadan, by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Taiwo Adisa, described Ugwuanyi as a bridge-builder and a detribalised patriot with strong belief in the Nigeria project.
He prayed to God to grant Ugwuanyi more years to serve his people and humanity at large.
Makinde said the Enugu state governor, like his other colleagues in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), had shown that there is still hope for Nigeria.
“And it is important to celebrate him and pray for long life and more grace for him.
“Gburugburu as he is called, is one politician I always commend for his love for his state and his passion for a better Nigeria.
“He embodies the concept of a detribalised Nigerian who has displayed pragmatic leadership with selflessness and dedication.
“Brother, not only are you a shining light among the PDP Governors, who by their sterling performances in office have shown that Nigeria can be better, you are an active player in the effort to rescue the country and bring about the Nigeria of our collective dreams.
“As you add another year, it is my prayer that God continues to sustain you and enable you to do more for humanity,” Makinde stated.