On behalf of myself, my family and the good people of Abigborodo, I join all well-meaning Nigerians to congratulate an astute and upright leader, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, on the joyous occasion of his 70th birthday.
HIS EXCELLENCY
DR EMMANUEL EWETA UDUAGHAN
FORMER EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR
DELTA STATE
As a governor, you inspired the people, created a paradigm shift in humanitarian activism in Nigeria, maintained cordial relationship with the traditional institution across the state, encouraged women participation in politics, promoted the rights and welfare of minors, built bridges of hope and demonstrated in every concrete terms a commitment to creating an enabling environment for sustainable development
You showed an uncommon commitment and patriotism on issues bordering on the Niger Delta region and its development, opened a new vista for commercial and economic prosperity of the state, demonstrated unusual knack in the pursuit of education in Delta State, expanded the frontiers of the dividend of democracy to the people, encouraged citizens to embrace entrepreneurship skills, ensured a sound culture of accountability, invested in electricity and housing, provided cheap, comfortable and affordable means of transportation.
You delivered in your three point agenda: peace and security, human capital and infrastructural development of the state.
You pursued the unity and development of Delta State with all sense of patriotism and passion, embarked on massive construction of roads in the three senatorial zones, created special economic zones and industrial clusters, touched on the lives of several Deltans especially by your free maternal health care programme for all pregnant women in the state, free health service for children, scholarship scheme for students, micro credit and agricultural schemes.
In areas like tourism, sports and housing, you achieved a number of successes.
The Okpere-Olomu Bridge and access road, Warri-Ode Itsekiri Bridges and Access Road, beautification and reconstruction of Effurun Roundabout, construction of the first road to Umeh, reconstruction of modern markets at Mosogar, Patani, Abavo and Ekwuoma, construction of High Court Complex, Warri, the Asaba International Airport project, new Government House project, flyovers at Okpanam/Summit/Anwai/Nnebisi Intersection at Asaba, expansion of the Osubi Airstrip to a standard airport, construction of the Sapele-Abigborodo Road and bridges, dualization of Ugbenu-Koko Road, Asaba-Ughelli Road, Old Lagos Asaba Road, Boji-Boji, Ughelli—Arterial Road, Ajamogha-Ekpen-Okere Road, Bowen-Odion Road/Cemetery Road Warri, PTI/Jakpa Road, construction of Koko-Uba-Egbelemeji Road, construction and rehabilitation of primary and secondary schools and reconstruction of Agbaribo-Okan Junction and Warri- Eku Road are clear evidence of your historic contributions to Delta State.
As Commissioner for Health, you made a mark that cannot be rivaled. You constructed and upgraded several health centres, provided special rehabilitation fund for hospitals across the state and established remarkable industrial peace in the sector through improved welfare package.
You raised economic productivity, reduced infant and maternal mortality and stressed the importance of empowering people living with AIDS with education.
No progress-loving person can deny your character of discipline, integrity and passionate commitment to the sector.
As Secretary to the State Government, you promoted a better Delta State and left your name in gold.
You brought your vision and vast experience to bear on the purpose-driven administration of Chief James Onanefe Ibori.
Indeed, you did the job with dignity, grace and generosity of spirit and left a powerful impression for Deltans.
You deserve to be honoured for your unique ability, uncommon administrative ingenuity, the work that you did for the people of Delta State and the example you set for the Itsekiri Nation.
You also deserve to be celebrated for your vision, forthrightness, sophisticated bearing and knack for solving the most complicated problems, exemplary leadership, immense contributions to humanity and the good name that you built for the family by your excellent conduct in the private and public sector.
I pray to Almighty God to protect you, grant you more wisdom, strength and good health to continue to serve mankind.
Once more, happy birthday and many happy returns
CHIEF EMMANUEL ORITSEJOLOMI UDUAGHAN
ALEMA OF WARRI AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, WEBSTER GROUP OF COMPANIES
