Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu has congratulated the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO) , Dr. Mrs. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala on her 70th birthday.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Levinus Nwabughiogu, Kalu eulogized former Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, saying that Okonjo-Iweala has made some footprints in the sands of time and the annals of world’s history as the first woman and first African to lead the World Trade Organization as Director-General.
Describing her as a unique African Amazon, the deputy speaker said that Okonjo-Iweala has showcased invaluable qualities of good leadership and succeeded even where others failed.
Kalu said that Africa and indeed, the world are proud of the Nigerian daughter who has distinguished herself in many remarkable ways by contributing immensely to the development of the nation, the continent and the global community.
He described Okonjo-Iweala as a rare gem and pride to womanhood, noting that she is held in very high esteem by the nation.
Kalu prayed God Almighty to continue to bless the septuagenarian with long life, good health and more wisdom in her commitment to impact the world.
“Our mother, wife and sister, today offers me a special opportunity to congratulate you on this auspicious time of your life. It gladdens my heart to know that the Good Lord has blessed you with a new age. Clocking 70 is, indeed, a milestone in age that calls for celebrations and gratitude to God Almighty.
“It is even more gratifying to know that within these years, you have traversed the length and breadth of the world, offering intellectual services that contribute to the economic development of the world.
“At home in Nigeria and Africa, you have, no doubt, made significant imprints on the economies. The same also resonates at the world stage.
“It therefore suffices to say that you are a rare gift, an Amazon, our own jewel of inestimable value and ultimately, a pride to womanhood.
“I celebrate you today and pray God Almost to continue to bless you with long life, good health, strength and wisdom for more impacts. Congratulations, ma”, Kalu said.
