Governor of Niger State, Hon. Mohammed Umaru Bago, has felicitated the Emir of Suleja, Alhaji Muhammadu Awwal Ibrahim, as he turns 82.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mal. Bologi Ibrahim, the governor extolled the virtues of the royal father, describing him as a man who has spent his life in service to humanity.
Governor Umaru Bago noted the tremendous contributions of the emir in public service, politics, and traditional institutions.
He said the service of the octogenarian in the development of not just his emirate and state, but the country at large, cannot be overlooked.
He says the celebrant, who was the first elected governor of the state from 1979 to 1983, was able to lay a foundation upon which subsequent governments were building.
"I thank Allah for being gracious to you to celebrate your 82nd birthday. I hold you in high esteem for your immense contribution to nation-building.
"May Allah reward your dedication and commitment to serving humanity", he said.
The governor also prays to Allah to grant the Emir more wisdom, strength, and good health to continue to provide good traditional leadership to his subjects in particular and the state in general.