Governor of Delta, Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, has congratulated the Chairman of Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers and Obi of Owa Kingdom, Obi (Dr) Emmanuel Efeizomor, on his 83rdbirth anniversary.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, in Asaba, the governor described the monarch as ``one of the foremost traditional rulers and a man of peace, with decades of outstanding leadership.

He stated thatObi Efeizomor had remained a leading light, revered monarch, role model and custodian of the culture and traditions of Owa people, and had over the years contributed immensely to the growth and development ofthe kingdom and Delta State.

“On behalf of my family, the government and people of Delta, therefore, I congratulate you, Your Royal Majesty, Dr Emmanuel Efeizomor, OON, Obi of Owa Kingdom, on the occasion of your 83rd birth anniversary.

"As a government, we have enjoyed your invaluable support in many aspects and it is my belief that you will continue to make your domain a model of peace and unity.

"The Owa kingdom has witnessed phenomenal transformation in terms of infrastructure and human capital development.

“As Chairman of Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers, you have remained a peace builder, a beacon of lightand a symbol of humility and excellence in leadership.

"The government appreciates your good counsel at all times and all you and your colleagues are doing in your various kingdoms to make governance easier in the state, and Ithank you immensely for your contributions toward the attainment of the Stronger Delta vision of our administration," Okowa stated.

He prayed to God to bless the monarch with longer life and wisdom to enable him to continue withhis service to the kingdom, state and humanity.