…Jim Nwobodo: Mbah is a Success
Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, recently led a distinguished gathering to honour elder statesman and former governor of old Anambra State, Senator Jim Nwobodo, during his 85th birthday celebration. The event took place at Nwobodo’s country home in Amechi Awkunanaw, Enugu, on Friday evening.
In his address, Governor Mbah highlighted the remarkable contributions of Nwobodo to Enugu State, old Anambra State, Nigeria, and humanity at large, praising him as an epitome of excellence.
“It will be difficult to find words that amply capture the true essence of what Dr. Jim Ifeanyichukwu Nwobodo represents. Your life is a living proof that the true value of existence is selfless service.
“Nothing endears one to his people than selfless service. That is what you epitomise. The men and women gathered here today to celebrate you is a reflection of that selfless service that you have provided for the people of Enugu State and Nigeria.
“Today, we celebrate an extraordinary journey. We celebrate 85 years of impactful life.
“As Governor at 39 years, you left bold legacies that are still evident today. As a Minister of Youth and Sport, your record remains unbeatable; and it’s still a heartwarming reference point in this country. As a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, you were an epitome of courage and patriotism. We are indeed very proud of you.
“You are a priceless gift to humanity and to Enugu State and indeed our dear country. We are so blessed to have you. You have also provided a shoulder on which countless leaders stand on. You are a charismatic, yet unassuming leader; a man of all seasons,” the governor stated.
Wishing Nwobodo continued health and happiness, Mbah expressed hope that the new generation of leaders would benefit from the elder statesman’s wisdom and experience.
In response, Nwobodo urged current leaders to seize the opportunities bestowed upon them to serve the public, referencing Governor Mbah’s accomplishments in Enugu State as a prime example.
“Today, Peter (Mbah) is a success. Whether anybody likes it or not. He is a success because the results speak for him. Whatever he is in Enugu today was God’s design from time. God gave it to him. God inspires all that he is doing in Enugu today.
“Governor Mbah also listens. He really does. I suggested something to him not long ago. He reflected on it and told me that he would do it. Today, he is already doing it. That is how you know a leader that would go far,” the elder statesman remarked.
Expressing gratitude to the governor for hosting a state event to commemorate his birthday, Nwobodo emphasised the importance of celebrating individuals while they are still alive.
“I did not expect an elaborate celebration as this. But the governor insisted on celebrating me so well. He maintained that it was better to celebrate people when they are alive, to say all the beautiful things to their hearing. So, Governor, I thank you for this show of love and thank all of you, who came out in your numbers to celebrate me,” he added.
The event was attended by notable figures, including former governor of Enugu State, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi; Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai; members of the Enugu State Executive Council; serving and former federal and state lawmakers; Council Chairmen led by Hon. Okechukwu Edeh, Chairman of the Enugu State chapter of ALGON; and traditional rulers, including His Majesty, Igwe Samuel Ikechukwu Asadu, Chairman of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, among many others.
