The people of Delta State on Monday, February 23, 2026, rolled out glowing tributes and heartfelt goodwill messages to celebrate the immediate past Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, OON
From online platforms to conventional media, the state was awash with congratulatory messages, reflecting the deep admiration and enduring bond between the renowned federal lawmaker and his people.
In a quiet and reflective start to his birthday, Elumelu slipped out to Abuja shortly after the APC LGA Congress and attended a private Thanksgiving Mass at Holy Trinity Catholic Parish, Maitama, Abuja. Accompanied by his wife and family members, he offered gratitude to God for the gift of life and the privilege of serving Nigeria over the years. The solemn worship underscored his characteristic humility and faith, even as celebrations gathered momentum back home in Delta State.
Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, led the stream of dignitaries who paid tribute to the former Minority Leader. In his message, the Governor described Elumelu as a diligent and accomplished parliamentarian whose tenure in the National Assembly was marked by purposeful leadership, patriotism and unwavering commitment to national development. He noted that Elumelu distinguished himself through robust legislative debates, advocacy for good governance and firm defence of democratic principles.
Governor Oborevwori further commended Elumelu’s dedication to the unity and growth of the All Progressives Congress (APC), portraying him as a loyal party man and bridge-builder. He lauded the former lawmaker’s developmental strides in Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency, emphasizing that his representation brought visible projects and empowerment initiatives that enhanced socio-economic progress. “As you celebrate 61 years of impactful living, I pray that God grants you continued good health, wisdom and strength for greater service,” the Governor stated.
Similarly, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State through the Chairman, Elder Omeni Sobotie, extolled Elumelu’s courage, diplomacy and deep commitment to legislative excellence, noting that his advocacy for equity, justice and good governance earned him admiration across political divides.
The Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly and Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures in Nigeria, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, also described Elumelu’s leadership trajectory as inspiring, adding that his experience and statesmanship remain invaluable to Nigeria’s democratic evolution.
However, beyond the flood of messages and accolades, the most striking tribute to the celebrant came from the grassroots in his Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency. The Executive Chairman of Aniocha North Local Government, Hon. Emmanuel Basim Chinye, mobilised leaders, political associates, supporters and admirers to commemorate the milestone with impactful humanitarian outreach carried out in Elumelu’s honour.
The activities included sponsored media advertorials as well as coordinated visits to hospitals and orphanages, where cash donations were made to patients, hospital bills of stranded and discharged patients were fully settled, and food items, provisions and toiletries worth millions of naira were distributed to orphanage homes. The initiative was widely applauded as a fitting reflection of Elumelu’s long-standing compassion and people-centred philosophy of leadership.
Local Government Chairmen across the state, particularly from Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency, joined in celebrating the former Minority Leader on behalf of their respective councils. Prominent political figures, including Chief Nkem Okwuofu, Chief Chris Agbabu, members of the Delta State House of Assembly, Commissioners, members of the State Executive Council, corporate organisations and socio-political groups, also sent warm felicitations. Together, the tributes and humanitarian gestures painted the picture of a leader whose 61st birthday was marked not only by words of praise, but by prayers, gratitude to God and meaningful service to humanity.
