Cardinal Onaiyekan, Akume Advocate for Unity at Lulu-Briggs’ 60th Birthday

…Youths Encouraged to Embrace Uprightness, Resilience

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

Emeritus Catholic Arch-Bishop, His Eminence, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, and Chief George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), have charged Nigerians on harmonious living among the different ethnic nationalities .

They emphasized the importance of unity and harmonious living and greater understanding across communities to foster a more cohesive society.

The duo gave the advice at the 60th birthday anniversary celebration of High Chief Dumo Owukori Lulu-Briggs in Abuja.

At events to mark the occasion on Thursday night, Lulu-Briggs was commended for his leadership and philanthropy in addressing the challenges of the indigent members of the society, especially children and the elderly.

Earlier, Bishop Martins Uzokwu, of the Minna Diocese, at a homily organized by His Eminence, John Cardinal Onaiyekan to mark Lulu-Briggs’ 60th Birthday Anniversary at the St. Gabriel Catholic Church, Abuja, he spoke about Lulu-Briggs’ continued charitable gifts to the needy and indigent, saying their blessings will continue to follow him.

Bishop Uzokwu, who was of the opinion that it is not only for Dumo Lulu-Briggs to praise the works of the Lord or sing his praises but the lives he has touched is already doing that for him, commended Lulu-Briggs for always holding the candle up wherever he goes and prayed God to continue to guide him.

Responding, Lulu-Briggs thanked the spiritual father, Cardinal finding him worthy of the mass hosted in his honour.

Lulu-Briggs, who announced a support of 50 Million for the growth of the Secretariat as a token from his friends, urged Nigeria’s youth to embrace uprightness, emphasizing that regardless of the situation, there is a clear distinction between right and wrong.

He encouraged the youth to always follow the path of integrity, which he said would ultimately be rewarding. According to him, patience and resilience are essential ingredients for achieving success and growth.

Speaking at the reception and Gala Night, Cardinal Onaiyekan described Lulu-Briggs as a man with the milk of human kindness who holds the growth of the society to heart.

The Cardinal reminisced about the lavish celebration Lulu-Briggs hosted for his 80th birthday, describing it as a gesture of profound generosity and friendship.

“Your humanitarian interventions have touched countless lives,” the Cardinal said. “May the good Lord continue to protect and guide you. You have always reached out to the poor, embodying the spirit of God’s love.”

Cardinal Onaiyekan, recalling how Chief Lulu-Briggs hosted a magnificent occasion for him when he turned 80 recently , said though it is not an issue of tit for tat, that Chief Lulu-Briggs is worthy of being celebrated.

George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, represented by Sen. Jack Tilley-Gyado said for a person as Cardinal Onaiyekan to celebrate Chief Lulu-Briggs suggests he is worthy of celebration by all Nigerians.

He urged others Nigerian to emulate his generosity and friendship that transcend all ethnic nationalities and age.

Chief Tilley-Gyado, who reminisced about their school days when Chief Lulu-Briggs was a year his senior, said his humane nature and leadership qualities were discernible even then.

Chief Lulu-Briggs was later joined by Cardinal Onaiyekan, several Bishops and Priests, the representative of the SGF as well as Friends and well wishers to cut the Birthday Cake.

Chief Lulu-Briggs has received prestigious accolades such as the 2023 Fin Oil and Gas Outstanding Community Service Award from Fin Investment USA and the 2021 Forbes Best of Africa Energy Personality of the Year.