Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, yesterday held up the recent promotion of the Commander of the 4th Brigade in Benin City, the Edo State capital, Major-General Pat Akem, as yet another proof that hard work has its rewards.

The governor stated this at the Thanksgiving Reception of Akem, one of the officers recently promoted from the rank of Brigadier-General to Major-General by the Nigerian Army.

Represented by the Deputy Governor, Prof. Amos Utuama SAN, Uduaghan lauded efforts made by Gen. Akem as Commander of the Brigade to curtail the activities of criminal elements, especially those bordering on kidnapping and armed insurgence. He advised him to continue to be diligent in his professional duties, saying that Almighty God will continue to reward his efforts.

“We are particularly happy that you did not leave Delta State without a promotion,” the governor said. “You have been diligent in carrying out your duties and God rewards hard work. Continue to do your best, don’t relent; your diligence will take you higher. And continue to stick to your God because God is the one who can reward any person adequately, not man.

“We appreciate your efforts in dealing with those who were bent on making life impossible for law abiding citizens, especially kidnappers and those who held communities to ransom through armed insurgence. We are happy to be here and pray that God will continue to guide you in all your future endeavours.”

Earlier at the thanksgiving service held at the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Provincial Headquarters Parish of Edo Province 4, Gen. Akem testified to how God helped him all over the years in his career. He said but for God, he would not have been alive to witness the promotion. He heaped praises on his wife, whom he described as a prayer warrior, always on her knees for him.

In his brief exhortation, the RCCG Regional Pastor for Edo/Delta, Pastor James Dagunro, emphasised the importance of thanksgiving. He said that Jesus Christ was particular about thanksgiving in the Biblical story of the ten healed lepers, wherein only one found it convenient to go back to express his gratitude.

Edo State Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, was represented by his Deputy, Elder Pius Odubu. Also present were the he Secretary to Delta State Government (SSG), Comrade Macaulay Ovuzuorie, among many other dignitaries.

•Photo shows Governor Uduaghan.