Governor Chukwuma Soludo has urged affluent Ndi Anambra to join in the present efforts to ensure economic stability in the state.

 

Governor Soludo made the call in Awka during the seventy fifth birthday celebration of the Chairman of Hardis and Bromadis limited, Chief Chike Obidigbo.

Represented by his Press Secretary, Mr. Christian Aburime, Governor Soludo said he likes to identify with people who have contributed so much to the growth of the state through philanthropy and employment.

 

Governor Obiano who wished him a happy birthday, praised Chief Obidigbo for using his wealth and resources for the development of the youths of the state urging him not to relent even as he charged others to emulate him.

Earlier in a service to usher in the celebration, the Archbishop Province of the Niger and Bishop of Awka Anglican Diocese, Most Reverend Alexander Ibezim, prayed for long life in good health upon the celebrant and God to guide, protect and preserve his children.

 

The traditional ruler of Umueri, in Anambra East council area, Igwe Benneth Emeka, said he identified with the celebrant because of his contributions to the growth of Omabala region and beyond, praying God to bless him the more.

In a cola nut ritual, the chairman on the occasion, and a renowned Nollywood actor, Chief Pete Edochie explained that Chief Obidigbo who has been a friend of his family , is a man with heart of gold, praying for long life upon him.

 

In their various speeches, the chairman Organizing Committee of the event and a renowned broadcaster, Comrade Tony Edochie and a friend of the celebrant Chief Chris Okonkwo thanked God that the celebrant is strong and healthy.

 

The first daughter of the celebrant, Barrister Chinelo Obiogbolu described her father as a great man and a man of the people, one who feels the heartbeat of the down trodden and a philanthropist with exception.

Responding, the celebrant Chief Obidigbo popularly called Osisoma, appreciated his family, friends and associates for identifying with him, and said that the encomiums poured on him will spur him to do more.

 

The Bishop of Awka Catholic Diocese, Most Reverend Paulinus Ezeokafor, the member representing Oyi constituency at the state House of Assembly, Honourable Innocent Ejike were present at the event, while Chief Chekwas Okorie led the toast for a long life for the celebrant and rendition from the celebrant’s Enugu family choir featured.

 

The event also featured cutting of birthday cake and presentation of a book on Chief Chike Obidigbo.