Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and his predecessor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, were among dignitaries that gathered at Saint Michael’s Anglican Church in Ute Erumu, Ika North East Local Government Area, on Wednesday to celebrate Ezinne Grace Chinyere Okubor at a special thanksgiving service marking her 95th birth anniversary.
The special thanksgiving service that attracted top Government functionaries, including the Bishop of Ndokwa Diocese, Anglican Communion, Rt. Revd’ Festus Nwafili, was a testament to the enduring legacy and influence of the birthday of the mother of Dr. Festus Okubor, Chief Strategist to the Delta State Governor.
In a thought provoking sermon, the Bishop of Ika Diocese, Rt. Revd’ Godfrey Ekpenisi, while paying tribute to Dame Grace Okubor, for attaining a remarkable milestone age of 95, emphasized that long life was a precious gift from God that should be celebrated while the beneficiaries are still alive.
He stressed that long life was a blessing from God that should be cherished.
“Let us celebrate our loved ones while they are still with us. It is a good thing, a joyful thing, to honor them while they can still feel the love and appreciation”, the bishop urged.
According to Bishop Ekpenisi, a life of longevity like that of Dame Okubor’s was not just a product of chance, but also a result of the right attitude and lifestyle.
“We can live longer when nurtured by the kind of attitude we exhibit,” he said.
The bishop shared some keys to living a long and fulfilling life, which he said were exemplified by the nonagenarian. These include having absolute faith in God and obedience to His word, being joyful and grateful and exhibiting the power of forgiveness and love.
“Absolute faith in God and obedience to His Word are essential, we must also cultivate a joyful spirit, exhibit gratitude, and practice forgiveness and love. These are the keys to unlocking a long and purposeful life just like mama,” he said
The Chief celebrant’s son, Dr. Festus Okubor described the mother as a strong woman of faith whose devotion to God is unwavering.
Thanking God for the mother whom he said is still alive by divine preservation, thanked the Governor and others for honouring the family with his esteemed presence.
Earlier, the celebrant, Ezinne Okubor was joined by Governor Oborevwwori, Senator Okowa and other guests to offer thanksgiving to God.
