Governor of Delta and Vice-Presidential Candidate of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, has congratulated former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, as he clocks 90 years.
Okowa, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Olisa Ifeajika, in Asaba, said Nigeria benefited immensely from Anyaoku’s unblemished services to Nigeria, Africa and the Commonwealth having served for 34 years in the diplomatic community before being elected as Secretary-General in 1989.
He described the nonagenarian as a diplomat extraordinaire, the epitome of selflessness and statesmanship, and prayed that God would raise more leaders in Anyaoku’s mold in Nigeria’s political and socio-economic firmament.
“On behalf of my family, the government, and the people of Delta, I felicitate with you, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, on your 90th birth anniversary.
“As a great patriot and elder statesman, you have made significant contributions to the growth and stability of our nation, Africa, and the Commonwealth of nations through your selfless service to humanity.
“As Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, you displayed uncommon wisdom and irrepressible courage in your service and were very instrumental to the role of the Commonwealth in the liberation of Southern African states from racist colonialism and conflicts.
“You contributed actively to the Trans-African struggle for liberation which culminated in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and other states in the Southern region of Africa becoming free and independent states.
“As you celebrate your 90th birth anniversary, I join your family, friends, well-wishers, and Ndigbos worldwide to thank Almighty God for your life and to pray that He continues to bless you with robust health, greater wisdom, guidance, protection, and enduring provisions,” Okowa stated.
