Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Monday lauded the Chairman of Maton Engineering Limited, Mr. Matthew Tonlagha, for his life of service, resilience and generosity, describing the large turnout at his 50th birth anniversary celebration as a testament to a life that has positively impacted humanity.
Speaking at the thanksgiving ceremony held in Warri, Governor Oborevwori said the testimonies shared at the event were lessons worthy of emulation, noting that the gathering reflected the many lives Tonlagha had touched over the years.
“I am particularly happy for you because I know your story,. For ten good years, you could not walk. That is not a small period. But God sustained you, and He is still sustaining you. God will continue to reward your service to humanity,” he said.
The governor observed that the celebrant’s goodwill had united people from across Warri and beyond, with guests drawn from different parts of the country.
He said the presence of prominent personalities, men of God and the novelty football match between Bayelsa and Delta States held in his honour underscored Tonlagha’s wide acceptance and influence.
Governor Oborevwori used the occasion to reaffirm his administration’s commitment to peace and security in Delta State, stressing that peace remained a top priority of his government.
According to him, sustained peace is being achieved through the collective efforts of security agencies, host communities and government-driven engagement programmes that keep youths meaningfully engaged.
He said: “Peace remains our priority. The security agencies are doing their part, communities are doing their part, and government is also doing its part by engaging our people and taking many off the streets.
“Anyone who makes money from this state should invest in this state. This land is good. I was born here, raised here, and nothing will happen to anyone who invests here”.
The governor paid glowing tribute to Tonlagha’s wife for her unwavering support, describing her as a partner who stood by her husband even during difficult times.
He also celebrated the celebrant’s mother and mother-in-law for their steadfast support, praying for God’s blessings upon them.
In his sermon, Pastor Emmanuel Kalejaiye, Continental Overseer, South-West Nigeria and Middle East of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, delivered a brief exhortation titled “A Worthy Life,” drawn from Psalm 90:12.
He described a worthy life as one that reverences God and remains a blessing to mankind, adding that thanksgiving is a public expression of gratitude demonstrated through words and actions.
In his testimony, the celebrant, Mr. Matthew Tonlagha, thanked God for the grace of attaining the age of 50, describing himself as truly blessed.
He paid special tribute to all mothers, particularly his own mother, whom he described as his pillar of strength. He also celebrated his wife, noting that their union is built on mutual counsel and understanding.
Tonlagha concluded by leading the congregation to offer seven thunderous hallelujahs in gratitude to God, whom he acknowledged as the source of his victory over numerous life challenges, including polio.
