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My journey in politics- Senator Gil Nnaji on his birthday

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Senator(Prince) Gilbert Emeka Nnaji

GOODWILL MESSAGE TO MY PEOPLE: AS I MARK MY BIRTHDAY

My brothers and sisters,

This is a special day of my life! It is a day of reflection. It is a day of thanksgiving. It is a day of appreciation.

Therefore as I thank God for my journey so far, I heartily appreciate you, for your various roles.

Looking back to where and how I started, especially the challenges overcome and the grounds covered, I realize that the essence of our common humanity is to complement each other, and also that even in our individual weaknesses there are great strengths collectively.

By God’s design, we need each other to achieve our purposes and attain greatness in life. For surely, a palm cannot make a clap. Again, I am fulfilled to learn that whatever God does not give you cannot be given by man.

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To the glory of God and service of humanity, I have been a three-term Chairman of Enugu-East Local Government Area. I have represented the good people of Enugu-East and Isiuzo Federal Constituency twice at the House of Representatives. Also, I served as the Senator for the Enugu-East Senatorial District for two terms. All these opportunities were possible because God and you, the people, agreed to mandate me.

Solely this is the reason I have dedicated this day to appreciate God and you all that He used to take me this far.

Even as I don’t wish to belabour you with a very long list that could be endless, I know you all and you know yourselves the same way God knows you. Particularly, my heart goes out to the memories of the faithful departed. Among them is my beloved wife, Princess Anne Nnenna Nnaji. Though I find it difficult addressing her in the past tense, she was a pillar of support until her painful transition. And so, for all those who partook in my successes but sadly are no more here with us, may their gentle souls continue to enjoy the company of the Angels in God’s bosom till we meet again. Their labours of love will continue to encourage us, the living.

However, as I write this, there are certain peculiar incidents that keep popping up in my mind. They may mean nothing ordinarily, but they shall stick to me eternally. Indeed, there are very many of them which I hope to document for public access in future, but may I, for sake of emphasis recount just a few here.

But before that, I am persuaded to solemnly make a passionate appeal from the bottom of my heart.

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According to Steve Maraboli, “the truth is, unless you let go, unless you forgive, unless you forgive the situation, unless you realize that the situation is over, you cannot move forward”. My beloved people, it is on the strength of this that I sincerely plead for forgiveness from everyone that I have in any way offended in the past. I am deeply sorry. I am human and no human is perfect. As such, mutual forgiveness is very important and necessary for us to move on and excel in life. I have since put behind me, all the unpleasant experiences. Life is too short to dwell on things that will pass away someday. We need each other to make progress in this journey of life. So once again, let the past remain in the past for good, as we embrace better days ahead.

And so continuing, may I recall that at the build-up to my second senatorial election, the major threat I faced was that the six chairmen of the local governments making up the zone were being manipulated against my interest and ambition. It was a very serious challenge that even the Party, PDP, was full of uncertainties.

But God raised a saviour in the then Member representing Udenu/Igboeze-North Federal Constitution and to His glory today, the Governor of Enugu State, Rt. Hon Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi. Despite not being from the troubled zone, he quickly called an emergency meeting where that issue was resolved, eventually resulting in electoral victory. Concerning this and many others Your Excellency, I am eternally grateful and indebted to you.

Still on that senatorial re-election, it is my humble wish not to be elaborate for now. But in this case and with much nostalgia, I remember, just like yesterday, a solemn phone call at the dead of the night, from His Excellency, Sullivan Chime, the then governor of the state.

That was precisely at 3:03 am on Saturday, December 6th 2014. Your Excellency, though it is only God, you and I that knew the content of that conversation, I will forever treasure that wonderful gesture. Describing it as game-changing or even a lifeline, would be an understatement. Certainly for that, I owe you a lot. In the same vein, it was the same Governor Chime who weathered all the storms and made my then PA the Chairman of my local government area. The rest today is history but as long as I live, the memory shall live with me.

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Again, I must confess that moving from the House of Representatives to the Senate was not a smooth one for me as ordinary eyes might believe. In 2011, the battle was so fierce that even one’s shadow was literally not trusted. But thankfully, God was at work as usual, using willing vessels both young and old, even across party lines and religions. With party primaries over and unknown to many, the real in-house battles began and shifted to Abuja. Then again, God raised a brother and friend indeed, in the person of His Excellency, Senator Ken Nnamani, former President of the Senate. Apart from leg walks, he was consistently in touch with every critical stakeholder of the Party, just to ensure that the result of the primaries and the wishes of the people were respected. Concerning this and other supports Your Excellency, you remain special to me.

Then of a truth, it was possible for my political ambition and public leadership to have begun and ended within Enugu State. In this regard, I lack words to describe the very good hand that God used to build the pathway to the higher platform. His Excellency, Senator Chimaroke Nnamani unarguably has a place in the hearts of every Enugu State post-1999 politician. He is not only a leader but a maker of men. God called and commissioned him solely to liberate the captives and help destinies. I am a proud beneficiary of this divine arrangement! Your Excellency and my boss, Ebeano, I am sure you still remember everything and know how I cherish all the magnanimities. But once again as ever, I shall not forget, and what I owe you is immeasurable.

Undoubtedly for every accomplished individual, there are always days of little beginning. In 1991 and at a very young age, I was priviledged to become my local government secretary of the defunct National Republican Convention, NRC, under the political tutelage of His Excellency, Okwesilieze Nwodo, the first elected Governor of Enugu State. He helped in preparing me for leadership. He was highly instrumental to my subsequent election in 1997 as the First Executive Chairman of Enugu-East Local Government, under defunct United Nigeria Congress Party, UNCP. And even to date, he is still a supportive brother and leader. Your Excellency, you have a place in my heart.

In life, some friends are more than relatives. His Excellency, Ike Ekweremadu, the former Deputy Senate President, is one of such rare souls. Right from the moments our paths crossed, he has proven to be a dependable ally. I have uncountable pleasant encounters with him as I climbed the ladder of political leadership. Ikeoha, our relationship has gone beyond politics, and I am pleased and equally honoured to have you share in my today’s thanksgiving to God.

And in a very special way, I recognize the man that God in His mercies and wisdom, appointed to prepare the way and raise leaders even beyond our dear Enugu State. His Excellency, Jim Nwobodo, the first civilian Governor of the old Anambra State, is a living legend. Apart from my encounters with him which offered me beneficial opportunities, the entire present-day Enugu, Ebonyi and Anambra states celebrate him as a trailblazer.

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I can go on and on, but because our people believe in their leaders and mentors, may I passionately plead that this special recognition and greetings may also reach them through you, my lords and masters. It is extremely difficult for me to reach them individually but that does not mean that their respective roles in my life are being taken for granted.

Therefore my highly-respected leaders and our people’s representatives, please do me the favour of accepting my esteemed regards and assurances of continued love on their behalf. They mean so much to me. And God willing, yet another opportunity will come for me to indeed celebrate them.

Meanwhile my fellow travellers in this journey of life, as I conclude this goodwill message, permit me to leave you with these two pieces of writing that I came across and enjoyed reading, which in turn enriched my moments of reflection. I could not identify the authors but I consider them worth sharing with great minds like you.

One of them is:

“NEVER EVER FORGET THESE POINTS!!

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Ø Always remember that you can grow without destroying others.

Ø Always remember that while others are rising, you can also rise.

Ø Always remember that finding satisfaction in the pain of others will never bring you true happiness.

Ø Always remember that what you wish others is a prayer for yourself.

Ø Become the good fire that genuinely lights up others, not one that ruins the joy, goodwill, and expectation of others”.

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Then the other is:

“NOBODY IS YOUR ENEMY BECAUSE

Ø ANYTHING THAT ANNOYS YOU is teaching you patience and calmness.

Ø ANYONE THAT ABANDONS YOU is teaching you how to stand up on your own feet.

Ø ANYTHING THAT OFFENDS YOU is teaching you forgiveness and compassion

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Ø .ANYTHING THAT YOU HATE is teaching you unconditional love.

Ø ANYTHING THAT YOU FEAR is teaching you the courage to overcome your fears.

Ø ANYTHING YOU CAN’T CONTROL is teaching you to let go.

Ø ANY PROBLEM YOU’RE FACING is teaching you how to get the solution to problems.

Ø ANY ATTACK YOU GET is teaching you the best form of defence.

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Ø ANYONE WHO LOOKS DOWN ON YOU is teaching you to look up to Almighty God

SO ALWAYS LOOK OUT FOR THE LESSON IN EVERY SITUATION YOU FACE IN EVERY PHASE OF LIFE.”

Then in all these and being my conviction, may we always remember that WHEN JESUS SAYS YES, NOBODY CAN SAY NO!!

Thanks and God bless you as you join me in marking my birthday.

Senator (Prince) Gilbert Emeka Nnaji

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Birthday

Former Enugu SSG Prof. Ajah Felicitates With His Excellency Rt. Hon Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi On His Birthday

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FELICITATIONS AND BEST WISHES @ 62
My family and I join millions of your admirers in Enugu State , Nigeria and indeed all over the world to felicitate and celebrate with you on this auspicious occasion of your birthday at 62.
We are particularly grateful to Almighty God for His grace upon your life.He will continue to protect you and give you good health for greater services to mankind .
The History of my life can not be complete without a copious chapter devoted to your benevolence and kindness upon my life
While wishing you long life , God protection ,more heights and attainment, BE ASSURED that our prayers and thoughts are always for you.

HAPPY Birthday Your Excellency
Prof Goc Ajah mni PhD & family.

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Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi at 62: Remembering a Leader’s Open-Door Legacy, Generosity, and Service

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By PETRUS OBI

As former Governor of Enugu State, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, marks his 62nd birthday, reflections on his years in office continue to centre on a leadership style that stood out in Nigeria’s political landscape—defined not by flamboyance, but by quiet strength, accessibility, and a deeply human approach to governance.
Fondly called “Gburugburu,” a nickname that underscores his widespread grassroots appeal, Ugwuanyi governed Enugu State from 2015 to 2023, a period many observers describe as one marked by stability, inclusiveness, and deliberate efforts to bring governance closer to the people.
A Governor Within Reach
Perhaps the most enduring hallmark of Ugwuanyi’s administration was his open-door policy, which redefined the relationship between government and the governed in Enugu State. At a time when political leaders often appeared distant and insulated, Ugwuanyi chose a different path—one that prioritised accessibility and constant engagement.
Government House, Enugu, under his leadership, became a hub of interaction where traditional rulers, market women, youth groups, civil servants, and political stakeholders could seek audience without the rigid barriers typically associated with power. His regular presence at community events, religious gatherings, and social functions further reinforced the image of a leader who was not removed from the realities of his people.
This accessibility was not merely symbolic. It translated into policy responsiveness, as many decisions of his administration were shaped by direct feedback from citizens. In many instances, grievances brought personally to him received swift attention, strengthening public confidence in his leadership.
Compassion Beyond Politics
Ugwuanyi’s generosity became almost legendary during his time in office. Beyond formal government programmes, he was widely known for personal acts of kindness that touched countless lives. From offsetting hospital bills for indigent patients to supporting bereaved families, funding education for underprivileged children, and empowering small-scale traders, his interventions often came quietly, without publicity.
Widows, the elderly, persons living with disabilities, and rural dwellers frequently found in him an ally. His administration institutionalised some of these gestures through social support initiatives, but it was his personal involvement that left a lasting impression on many beneficiaries.
In a political climate where leadership is often measured in grand projects alone, Ugwuanyi’s emphasis on compassion and human connection set him apart, earning him loyalty that transcended party lines.
Peace and Stability as a Policy Priority
While infrastructure and economic growth remain key metrics of governance, Ugwuanyi placed significant emphasis on peace and security—an area in which Enugu State recorded relative calm during his tenure, even as parts of the country faced serious challenges.
Through consistent engagement with traditional institutions, religious leaders, youth organisations, and security agencies, his administration fostered a collaborative approach to conflict prevention and resolution. His ability to listen, mediate, and build consensus proved crucial in maintaining stability across communities.
Observers often note that his calm disposition and non-confrontational style contributed significantly to this atmosphere of peace, making Enugu one of the more stable states in the South-East during his years in office.
Infrastructure and Rural Development
Though often described as a “quiet achiever,” Ugwuanyi’s administration recorded notable progress in infrastructure, particularly in rural development. His government focused on opening up rural communities through road construction and rehabilitation, improving access to markets, healthcare, and education.
Several urban roads were also upgraded to ease traffic congestion and support economic activities within Enugu metropolis and other key towns. His rural electrification efforts, alongside water projects in underserved communities, contributed to improving living conditions for many residents.
In the education sector, his administration invested in the renovation of public schools, provision of learning materials, and support for teachers, aimed at strengthening the foundation of basic education. Similarly, the healthcare sector saw improvements through the upgrading of primary healthcare centres and increased attention to community-based health services.
Workers’ Welfare and Administrative Stability
Ugwuanyi maintained a relatively stable relationship with the workforce throughout his tenure. Enugu State under his leadership gained a reputation for the regular payment of salaries, even during periods when many states struggled to meet such obligations.
Pensioners, often among the most vulnerable, also benefited from efforts to address arrears and improve their welfare. This commitment helped to reduce labour unrest and foster a cooperative environment between government and workers.
Political Leadership and Party Stability
Within the political space, Ugwuanyi was widely regarded as a unifying figure. His consensus-driven approach to leadership helped to manage internal party dynamics and reduce conflicts, ensuring relative stability within the political structure of the state.
He was often seen as a bridge-builder, someone who prioritised dialogue over division, and this earned him respect not only among his allies but also among political opponents.
A Lasting Impression
As Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi celebrates his 62nd birthday, the reflections go beyond policies and projects. For many, his legacy lies in the tone he set—one of humility, patience, and genuine concern for the welfare of the people.
In an era where leadership is frequently associated with power and distance, Ugwuanyi’s tenure offered a different model—one where accessibility, empathy, and quiet service defined governance.
Years after leaving office, the stories persist: of a governor who listened, who showed up, and who, in the eyes of many, governed not just with authority, but with heart.

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Peter Ndubuisi Mbah at 54: A Technocrat’s Drive to Rebuild Enugu

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By PETRUS OBI

As Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah marks his 54th birthday, attention naturally turns to a leadership journey that has been defined by urgency, ambition, and a clear departure from business-as-usual governance in Enugu State.
Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, Mbah has pursued an aggressive development agenda anchored on economic expansion, infrastructure renewal, and human capital development. His oft-stated vision—to grow Enugu’s economy from about $4.4 billion to $30 billion within eight years—has shaped a governance style that prioritises measurable outcomes over rhetoric.
Driving Economic Reforms and Revenue Growth
One of the most striking features of Mbah’s administration is the rapid growth in internally generated revenue (IGR). Through reforms such as digital tax systems and plugging revenue leakages, Enugu has witnessed a dramatic rise in earnings, with reports indicating growth of over 400 percent within two years.
This surge has provided the fiscal backbone for the administration’s ambitious capital projects, with budgets increasingly tilted toward infrastructure and development spending.
Massive Investments in Education
Education has emerged as a cornerstone of Mbah’s policy thrust. His government is implementing the Smart Green Schools initiative—an ambitious plan to build about 260 technology-driven schools across all wards in the state.
Designed as fully integrated learning environments, these schools aim to equip young people with digital skills and global competitiveness. Complementing this is the revival of technical and vocational education, including the construction of specialised science and technical colleges.
The scale of investment has drawn commendation from institutions such as UNICEF, which described the administration’s focus on education and primary healthcare as transformative.
Healthcare and Human Development
In the health sector, the administration has embarked on upgrading primary healthcare centres and modernising key institutions like the Enugu State University Teaching Hospital.
Budgetary allocations to healthcare have also increased significantly, reflecting a broader commitment to improving access to quality medical services and building a healthier population.
Infrastructure and Urban Renewal
From roads to urban development, Mbah’s infrastructure drive has been expansive. Dozens of road projects have been initiated across the state, with major reconstruction and new road networks aimed at improving connectivity and economic activity.
At the heart of his urban vision is the New Enugu City project—a sprawling smart city initiative designed to reposition the state as a hub for investment, tourism, and modern living.
Legacy projects such as the International Conference Centre and Hotel Presidential are also being revived to boost business and hospitality potential.
Agriculture and Food Security
Mbah’s administration is also pushing a transition from subsistence farming to agro-industrialisation. With large-scale land allocations for export-oriented agriculture and the development of farm estates, the state is positioning itself as a major player in agribusiness.
This approach aims not only to ensure food security but also to create jobs and diversify the economy.
Security and Governance Reforms
Recognising security as a prerequisite for development, the government has invested in modern surveillance systems, patrol vehicles, and institutional reforms to improve safety across the state.
In governance, digital reforms—such as land administration systems and judicial infrastructure like the new digital court building—signal a push toward efficiency, transparency, and ease of doing business.
A Leadership Defined by Ambition
In less than three years, Mbah’s administration has carved a reputation for speed, scale, and a private-sector approach to public governance. While challenges remain—as with any ambitious reform programme—his tenure so far reflects a deliberate attempt to reposition Enugu as a competitive, investment-friendly state.
At 54: Looking Ahead
As he turns 54, Governor Peter Mbah stands at a pivotal moment, balancing early achievements with the expectations of long-term transformation. If the current pace is sustained, his administration may well redefine governance benchmarks not just in Enugu State, but across Nigeria.
For now, his birthday offers not just a celebration of age, but a reflection on a leadership project still very much in motion.

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A Legacy of Excellence: Celebrating Odalije Sir Chinyeaka Ohaa

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On Wednesday, 4th February 2026, family, friends, associates, and well-wishers gather in Abuja and Enugu respectively in gratitude to celebrate the birthday of Odalije Sir Chinyeaka Ohaa — an accomplished public servant, visionary administrator, church leader, and philanthropist whose life has been marked by unwavering service to God, government, and society.

Sir Chinyeaka Ohaa’s distinguished career in public service spans decades of exemplary leadership and institutional reform. As a Federal Permanent Secretary in several federal ministries including Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Abuja, he brought to bear a rare combination of professionalism, accountability, and strategic thinking, contributing significantly to policy formulation, implementation and the strengthening of public institutions at the national level.

Earlier in his career, he served with distinction as Accountant-General of Enugu state, where he played a pivotal role in entrenching fiscal discipline, transparency, and prudent financial management. His tenure was characterized by strong oversight of public funds, improved financial controls, and a commitment to accountability that enhanced confidence in the public finance system. Through his work, he helped lay foundations for sustainable governance and responsible stewardship of resources.

His passion for grassroots development was further demonstrated during his service as Commissioner for Agriculture in Enugu State. In this role, Sir Chinyeaka Ohaa championed agricultural productivity, rural empowerment, and food security. He supported initiatives aimed at boosting farmer participation, improving access to inputs, and strengthening agricultural value chains. His tenure contributed to the upliftment of rural communities and reinforced agriculture as a viable driver of economic growth within the state.

In 2022, motivated by a deep love for Ndi Enugu and a desire to broaden his impact, Sir Chinyeaka Ohaa aspired to the office of Governor of Enugu State. His gubernatorial primary aspiration was anchored on a clear vision of inclusive development, institutional competence, and people-centered governance, further underscoring his readiness to serve at the highest level.

Beyond government, Sir Chinyeaka Ohaa is a man of deep faith and committed service to the church. As former Lay President of the Agbani Diocese of the Methodist Church Nigeria, he provided exemplary leadership rooted in humility, unity, and spiritual discipline, strengthening the church’s administrative and evangelical mission.

His compassion for humanity finds expression in his role as a philanthropist, where his generosity has supported education, healthcare, community development, and the upliftment of the less privileged. Often working quietly behind the scenes, his acts of kindness have transformed lives and restored hope to many.

Presently, as Chairman of the Governing Council of Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), Sir Chinyeaka Ohaa continues to invest in the future. His leadership promotes academic excellence, sound governance, and institutional stability, ensuring that ESUT remains a center for innovation, learning, and human capital development.

Arguably, in the annals of Nigeria public administration, few names resonate with as much authority, intergrity, and transformative impact as that of Sir Chinyeaka Ohaa – a man known to his peers as a strategist, to Ndi Enugu as Odalije, and to the nation as a quintesential public servant.

As he marks another year of life, we celebrate a man whose legacy is defined by integrity, service, faith, and enduring impact. May the Almighty grant Odalije Sir Chinyeaka Ohaa continued good health, wisdom, peace, and the grace to keep serving humanity with distinction.

Happy Birthday to Odalije — a life devoted to service and excellence.

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Associates organise a five-city, four-state celebration as Prof Pat Utomi reaches 70 on 6 February

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Enugu, Asaba-Ibuzo, and Lagos are the main cities where associates of renowned scholar and public intellectual Prof Pat Utomi gather to celebrate his 70th birthday on 6 February 2026.

Further celebrations will be held in Abuja and Kaduna.

The celebration of Utomi’s three score and ten will include intellectual feasts for the mind, bringing together academics and practising leaders, as well as other mind-engaging events.

Activities will begin on 4 February 2026, with the CVL Annual Lecture Symposium at the Amadeo Event Centre, Ebeano Tunnel, Enugu.

Dr Ameena Gurib-Fakim, the sixth and first female president of Mauritius, will be the keynote speaker. Wankele Mene, Chief Executive of the Africa Free Trade Area, and Dr George Elombi, President of Afrexim Bank, will deliver associate keynotes.

Panel discussions will commence with leaders from ‘Why Nations Fail’, co-author and 2024 Nobel Prize winner for Economics, Prof James Robinson, and Prof Paul Collier of Oxford University, who authored ‘The Bottom Billion’ and was the keynote speaker at the CVL Annual Lecture in 2017.

Panellists are Abia State Governor Dr Alex Otti, Enugu State Governor Dr Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, Prof Fred Olayele, former Chief Economist for New York and Dr Kandeh Yumkella, former Director General of UNIDO and previous CVL symposium keynote speaker.

Also on the panel are Prof Osita Ogbu, Alan John Kyerematen, and BD professor Franklin Ngwu, who will moderate. Former Pencom CEO MK Ahmad will chair proceedings in Enugu.

Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Ugochukwu Achebe (CFR, mni), the Obi of Onitsha, will preside over the birthday lecture to be delivered by Africa’s foremost industrialist, Dr Aliko Dangote, in Asaba on 6th February.

Panellists include Chief Leemon Ikpea, Dr Austin Avuru, Rainoil Limited founder Dr Gabriel Ogbechie, and Deacon Chris Iyowaye, with a theme on venturing into the Oil and Gas value chain. Others are Casimir Maduafokwa, Franklin Ngwu who will moderate and Alfred Okoigun of the Arco group.

The Vice Chancellor of the Pan Atlantic University, Prof Enase Okonedo, will chair the Lagos finale on 8 February.

Fr George Ehusani of Lux Terra has indicated that the Abuja events on the same track will take place two weeks later, followed by the closing Thanksgiving in Kaduna, where Prof Utomi was born 70 years ago.

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