From Thanksgiving to Grand Reception: How Delta, Bayelsa Celebrated High Chief DR Emonena Victor Wayles Egukawhore @60
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has described the Chairman of Dewayle’s Group of Companies, High Chief (Dr.) Emonena Victor Wayles Egukawhore, JP, FCILG, as a man of proven character, unwavering passion, and enduring commitment to community development.
The Governor made this remark on Sunday, January 11, 2025, at a thanksgiving service held at St. Peter’s Anglican Church, Okpolo-Enhwe, in Isoko South Local Government Area, to mark the Diamond Jubilee of the renowned international Marine and business magnate.
Governor Oborevwori noted that attaining the age of 60 is a clear testimony to God’s faithfulness, adding that returning all glory to God through thanksgiving is the most meaningful way to commemorate such a significant milestone.
According to the Governor, he has known High Chief Egukawhore for many years and has consistently observed in him a remarkable sense of purpose, passion, and dedication to the welfare and development of his people.
“Success is not accidental. It is rooted in divine favour, strong values, and respect for one’s roots. High Chief (Dr.) Emonena Egukawhore has consistently demonstrated these virtues, particularly through his commitment to the development of Okpolo-Enhwe, Patani, and the entire Niger Delta region,” the Governor stated.
He commended the celebrant for his deep attachment to his maternal roots in Patani and sustained investments in human capital and community development.
Governor Oborevwori prayed for God’s continued protection, good health, and increased blessings upon the celebrant and his family, urging him to remain steadfast in acknowledging God as the source of wisdom, opportunity, and increase.
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In his sermon, the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Oleh, Rt. Rev. John Aruakpor, preaching from Psalm 139:14–18, emphasized that human life is “fearfully and wonderfully made” and known by God even before birth. He described life as a sacred stewardship entrusted by God for service to humanity.
The Bishop admonished the congregation, stating, “Survival, progress, and achievement are products of divine grace, not merely personal strength or luck. We must therefore live purposefully, with gratitude, humility, and obedience.”
He also commended Governor Oborevwori for his visible achievements in infrastructure development across Delta State, noting that many projects compare favourably with global standards. He urged Deltans to continue supporting the administration, stressing that genuine performance leaves little room for political distractions.
In his remarks, High Chief (Dr.) Egukawhore expressed profound gratitude to God, noting that his life has been defined by enduring friendships, meaningful relationships, and consistent good deeds. He reaffirmed historical unwavering commitment to service and development, declaring that at 60, his journey of faith and purpose remains strong and unshaken.
The thanksgiving service attracted top government officials, traditional rulers, Captains of industry, and community leaders. Notable dignitaries in attendance included the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor; Chief Johnbull Ejovi; Chief Eta Enahoro; Engr. Matthew Tonlagha; High Chief Tunde Smooth; Chief Broderick Arigbodi; and Chief Daniel Omoyibo, among many others.
Following the thanksgiving service, dignitaries and guests proceeded to the country home of the celebrant—popularly referred to as High Chief (Dr) Emonena Egukawhore Citadel—a palatial and serene environment, where a lavish and colourful reception was held. The massive and unprecedented turnout underscored High Chief Egukawhore’s immense influence and lasting impact on the development of Isoko Nation and the wider Niger Delta region.
Present at the grand reception were the Governor of Bayelsa State, His Excellency Senator Douye Diri, alongside key members of the Bayelsa State Executive Council; representatives of the Governor of Enugu State; members of the Delta State Executive Council; Bank executives; academics; and other prominent personalities.
The celebration was further enlivened by electrifying musical and comedy performances from leading Nigerian entertainers, including Davido, Mercy Chinwo, Timi Dakolo, AY, Gordons, Whalemouth, Orezi, Richard Obajimi, St. Louis, and several others.
The highlight of the grand reception was the ceremonial cutting of the Diamond Jubilee cake by the celebrant.
True to the celebrant’s renowned hospitality, entertainment flowed seamlessly throughout the event as guests basked in an atmosphere of warmth, unity, and festivity. The celebration continued into the early hours of the morning, leaving indelible memories in the hearts of attendees.
Although the event has come and gone, the memories of the 60th Diamond Jubilee of High Chief (Dr.) Emonena Victor Wayles Egukawhore will continue to resonate across Enhwe Kingdom, Isoko Nation, the Niger Delta, and beyond—a landmark celebration whose legacy will be cherished for generations to come.
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, JANUARY 12TH 2026)
