It was a gathering of who is who on Sunday, 20th July, 2025, as personalities from all walks of life gathered at St Joseph’s Catholic Cathedral, Ekwulobia, Aguata LGA, Anambra State, to celebrate a business mogul, political giant, philanthropist
and devout Christian, Mr Valentine Ozigbo, as he marked his 55th birthday, themed, “A Celebration of God’s Goodness and Mercy.”
The Thanksgiving Mass officiated by the Bishop of the Diocese, His Eminence, Cardinal Peter Ebere Okpaleke, attracted the Clergy, Business moguls, political stalwarts, family member, friends, well-wishers and members of the Valiant Movement.
In in his sermon titled “Mary and Martha: A Lesson in Priorities and Patience,” Cardinal Okpaleke urged Christians to emulate Mary who had more interest in listening to the message Jesus than being distracted by earthly things and worries.
He commended the celebrant, Ozigbo, for always placing God first, for his patience, humility, and devotion in both public life and personal faith.
“My message is one of thanksgiving and glory to God for what He has done and will continue to do in the life of our dear brother, Valentine Ozigbo.”
“We pray that God will keep blessing him and all of us, as we learn from him today the spirit of thanksgiving for what God has done in our lives and society.”
“This is not just a birthday; it is a testimony, Valentine’s life mirrors a Martha that works and a Mary that listens, balancing purpose and piety.”
Speaking later in an interview, the Bishop opined that the current political coalition by parties is a normal and necessary process in addressing Nigeria’s challenges.
He dismissed claims that the coalitions are burdensome or heating up the polity.
“It is not a burden at all. Movement among people, and even among animals is natural,” the cardinal said.
“As we live our lives, we continue to reflect. If we’re not comfortable where we stand, we move. Even on our beds, if one side is uncomfortable, we move to the other. Realignment is nothing new.”
He further pointed out that the ongoing political movements should be seen as efforts to find sustainable solutions to Nigeria’s problems.
“Those who think it is a burden may not have fully appreciated the intent behind these coalitions, which are for the good of our country,” he said.
Appreciating all who came from far and near to celebrate with him, the celebrant, Ozigbo, expressed deep gratitude to God for seeing him through life’s journey over the past 55 years.
“I have every reason to thank God,” he said. “Let us continue to live a life of appreciation and thanksgiving, no matter the situation, because God has always been in control of our lives.”
The renowned business leader expressed profound gratitude to God for what he described as His enduring mercy and boundless grace, which have sustained him over the decades. “This milestone is not merely a celebration of age, but of purpose, resilience, transformation, and the unbroken hand of God that has guided every step of my journey,” he added.
Ozigbo used the occasion to reaffirm his commitment to values-driven leadership, compassion, and service to humanity.
He particularly thanked Barr. Chidi Amamgbo, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for the Anambra South Senatorial District bye-election; Sir Hon. Geoffrey Ndubuisi Nwobu, the ADC’s deputy governorship candidate; and numerous traditional, political, and community leaders who came to celebrate with him.
“This is a day I will never forget,” Ozigbo said. There were moments I could have taken shortcuts,deals I turned down, and opportunities sacrificed for principle. And every time grace steeped in and carried me further than ambition could.
“I am deeply humbled by the outpouring of love, and I rededicate myself to a life of impact, guided by faith, courage, and service.”
“Behind every stage I have stood on, every decision I have made, there has been a quieter world from where I draw my strength. My marriage, my family, my foundation, they are my sanctuary,“ he said
At the reception that followed the Thanksgiving Mass, various groups and artists entertained the guests, adding glamour to the birthday celebration.
