Otuaro Celebrates Okowa at 67, Describes Former Delta Governor as an Exceptional Leader and Statesman
His Excellency, Dcn. Kingsley Burutu Otuaro, Esq., immediate past Deputy Governor of Delta State and a leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State, has paid glowing tribute to his former boss and political associate, Senator Dr. Arthur Ifeanyi Okowa, CON, on the occasion of his 67th birthday, describing him as an exceptional leader, compassionate statesman and visionary administrator whose legacy continues to inspire generations of leaders across Delta State and Nigeria.
In a heartfelt congratulatory message marking the former governor’s birth anniversary, Otuaro said the celebration was not only a milestone in the life of Senator Okowa but also an opportunity for Deltans and Nigerians to reflect on the immense contributions he has made to public service, democratic governance and human capital development.
Otuaro, who served as Deputy Governor under Senator Okowa throughout his two successful terms as Governor of Delta State between 2015 and 2023, recalled their years of close collaboration in government, describing the period as one defined by mutual trust, shared vision and an unwavering commitment to delivering the dividends of democracy to the people of the state.
He noted that beyond politics and governance, his relationship with the former governor has remained cordial, robust and rooted in mutual respect, adding that Senator Okowa’s humility, wisdom and ability to build consensus distinguished him as one of Nigeria’s finest political leaders.
“Today, I join your family, friends, political associates and countless admirers in celebrating an outstanding leader, a dependable brother and a statesman whose life has been devoted to the service of humanity.
“Serving with Your Excellency for eight memorable years remains one of the greatest privileges of my public life. Together, we pursued a shared vision of advancing Delta State through purposeful governance, inclusiveness, peace and sustainable development. Your exemplary leadership, calm disposition, intellectual depth and commitment to the welfare of our people continue to inspire many of us.
“As Governor, you demonstrated uncommon courage in governance, placed people at the centre of government policies and laid enduring foundations for growth across critical sectors of the state. Your legacy will remain a reference point in public administration and transformational leadership.”
The former Deputy Governor further commended Senator Okowa for his outstanding contributions to national politics, noting that his service as Governor of Delta State and his emergence as the Vice Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in the 2023 general election further underscored his national appeal, political maturity and capacity for leadership.
According to Otuaro, Senator Okowa has continued to play a fatherly role in mentoring younger leaders while remaining a strong voice for peace, unity and the advancement of democratic ideals.
He said the former governor’s enduring commitment to the progress of Delta State and the welfare of its people has earned him widespread admiration across political, ethnic and religious divides.
“As you celebrate your 67th birthday, I pray that Almighty God will continue to bless you with robust health, greater wisdom, renewed strength and many more fruitful years of impactful service to our dear state and nation.
“May this new chapter of your life bring greater fulfilment, divine favour and abundant peace. Happy Birthday, Your Excellency.”
The congratulatory message has continued to resonate across political circles, with associates and well-wishers joining Otuaro in celebrating Senator Arthur Ifeanyi Okowa’s enduring legacy of selfless service, visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the development of Delta State and Nigeria.
