The town of Patani, located in the heart of Delta State, was alive with excitement recently as High Chief Emomena Victor WaylesEgukawhore, a prominent figure in marine, construction, and oil industries, hosted an event to mark the fourth anniversary of his late mother’s enduring love for motherhood. The celebration drew dignitaries and well-wishers from various parts of Nigeria.
The event was organized to commemorate the passing of Deaconess (Mrs) Magdalene ZipuamereEgukawho, the mother of High Chief WaylesEgukawhore, a revered community leader in Patani. The gathering brought together a diverse crowd, including traditional rulers, government officials, business leaders, and members of the public, reflecting the widespread respect for the Egukawho family and their commitment to philanthropy.
The ceremony featured a Christian memorial service, touching tributes, and captivating cultural displays that showcased the rich heritage of the region. Notable attendeesprincipal monarch Hrh Emmanuel Arikawei, MD/CEO of Etopo Energy Ltd., the Ebenanaowei of the Obotebe Kingdom in Burutu Local Government Area, Delta State was among the distinguished guests, High Chief Tunde Smooth representing the captains of industry and representatives from various states, including Bayelsa, Delta, and Enugu.
Also present was Senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo, Senior Political Advisor and Representative of the Governor of Delta State. His Excellency Chief Sheriff F. O. Oborevwori, While Hon. Anthony Alakpala and his colleagues in the delta state house of assembly represented the speaker Hon. EmomotimiGuwo; Alabo Gideon Ekeumei, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) representing Bayelsa State Governor; Dr. ItiOrugbani, the Commissioner for Tourism; Chief EkisahEsinkumoh, the Commissioner for Special Duties; Hon. Jones Ebie
High Chief Emomena Victor WaylesEgukawhore, the host of the event, expressed that the occasion aimed to honor his mother’s lasting legacy and profound impact on their family and the community. He described it as an opportunity to publicly display his enduring love for motherhood while also contributing to the well-being of the community through his philanthropic endeavors.
Bishop Victor EbipadeOkporu, from the Anglican Diocese of Western Izon, delivered a tribute praising the virtues of Deaconess Egukawho. He hailed her as a woman of exceptional character who had left behind a positive legacy and touched the lives of all those who had the privilege of knowing her.
Also, ItiOnigbani, the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Tourism, took the occasion to advocate for the exploration of the tourism potential in the Niger Delta region. He urged both the federal and state governments to harness the cultural richness of the area, promoting its festivals and events as attractive tourism destinations. Dr. Onigbani emphasized the need for cultural preservation and the teaching of indigenous languages in schools to prevent their extinction.
The commissioner’s call for increased investment in tourism was underscored by the rich cultural festivals of the Niger Delta, such as the Seigbein festival of Kabowei Kingdom. He emphasized that these festivals could attract local and foreign investors, contributing to the socioeconomic development of the region.
However, Onigbani also stressed the importance of improved security and infrastructure, including the rehabilitation of the East West highway, to create a safe and attractive environment for tourism growth.
High Chief Emonena Victor WaylesEgukawhore, popularly known as the “marine Oxygen” in the oil and gas industry, took the occasion to express his gratitude to Arthur Ifeanyi Okowa, Delta State Governor for his exemplary leadership and commitment to development. He commended the governor’s efforts in constructing critical infrastructure, empowering citizens, and fostering a business-friendly and peaceful environment.