At 70, you do not look like a man slowing down—you look like one who is just beginning. Your life remains a shining example of wisdom, calmness, and purposeful leadership, and we are proud to be beneficiaries of your impact.
Sir, your role in shaping my political journey can never be forgotten. I remain eternally grateful for the pivotal moment in the year 2000 when, as Local Education Secretary, I visited the state headquarters and discovered that the position of Secretary of the State Primary Education Board was vacant.
With the support of a dear friend and brother (chief Monday Ode) of blessed memory, we approached you in your office as Special Adviser on Transport. You warmly received us and assured us that the application letter addressed to His Excellency, Governor Ibori, would be delivered.
True to your word, just two weeks later, when I returned to your office to follow up, you presented the same letter—already acknowledged and minuted by Governor Ibori ,with the inscription “Noted” in red ink. That singular act of goodwill led directly to my appointment as Secretary of the State Primary Education Board now SUBEB.
That moment did not just change my career—it helped shape my political profile and destiny. Your spirit of openness, unity, and commitment to collective growth is rare, and I will forever cherish it.
In a time when many in positions of privilege choose to withhold opportunities, and information from reaching the governor,you chose instead to open doors for others. I vividly recall how, in the early days of the administration (1999/2000), you facilitated employment opportunities for numerous graduates into the state civil service and various agencies, including the Education Boards.
Today, many of those beneficiaries—especially those who were later converted into the mainstream of the ministries—remain eternally grateful to you for transforming their lives and giving them a future they might not have had otherwise. Many have risen to become functioning Permanent Secretaries, Directors and Deputy Directors, a living testament to your enduring legacy of empowerment.
Furthermore, your wisdom and maturity were clearly demonstrated during the 2006 political contest for the State House of Assembly of 2007,under the PDP (Ethiope West Constituency).The manner in which you coordinated and guided the selection process of the eventual candidate was exemplary, transparent, and widely accepted by all stakeholders—including myself, who had shown interest at the time. That moment remains a clear reflection of your fairness, leadership capacity, and commitment to peace over personal interest.
Your guidance in the political landscape of our local government has also been invaluable. Your consistent advocacy for unity and total reconciliation reflects not only leadership but fatherly wisdom and maturity. Today, we are all witnesses to the peace that has returned to our political space—thanks in no small part to your efforts.
Notably, your legacy of leadership extends beyond politics into the social fabric of our kingdom. As the maiden President General of Oghara Elite Forum (OEF),you laid a solid foundation of integrity, vision, and purpose. Up until 2005, when you graciously handed over the mantle of leadership to me as President General, your achievements and clearly defined roadmap became the bedrock upon which others—including myself—have continued to build.
By the grace of God, we were able to take OEF to unprecedented heights, but it is important to acknowledge that such progress was only possible because of the strong foundation you established. Today, the forum stands tall and widely recognized as one of the foremost social clubs rooted in integrity, fairness, and unity. This remarkable growth bears your unmistakable imprint, and history will always remember you as a cornerstone of its success. The members remain deeply grateful for your vision and pioneering leadership.
Beyond politics, as a Pastor, your life continues to reflect the Word of God in action. You have shown us that leadership is most powerful when anchored in faith, humility, and service.
As you celebrate this glorious milestone of your 70th birthday, I pray that God grants you continued good health, strength, and many more years of impactful service.
Happy 70th Birthday, Pastor Champion Kpateghe.
Your legacy lives on in all of us.
To God be the glory. Amen.
Chief Ofa Henry Ogheneochuko PhD JP .
Fmr President General Oghara Elite Forum (OEF)
Director,Media ISGN.
