Senator and Chief Mrs. Barnabas Gemade, OFR, have expressed their profound appreciation to everyone who contributed to the success of their 50th wedding anniversary celebration, held on December 22, 2024, in Korinya City.
The event, which included a thanksgiving service and reception in their hometown, Gemade’s Village, was marked by the presence of family, friends, dignitaries, and well-wishers who supported the joyous occasion through physical attendance, representation, goodwill messages, and calls.
In their message, the couple conveyed their gratitude to all who made generous contributions to their churches, N.K.S.T. Iorkyoso and Gemade, highlighting the collective spirit that ensured the success of the event.
They extended special thanks to national leaders, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, as well as the Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, who served as the Special Guest of Honor. Also acknowledged were Sen.
Hope Uzodinma, Governor of Imo State, and a host of other political and community leaders, including Sen. Gabriel Suswam, Rt. Hon. Hyacinth Aondona Dajoh, and Barr. Sam Ode, Deputy Governor of Benue State.
The Gemades also recognized grassroots leaders such as Hon. Moses Chikyaa, the Chairman of Konshisha local government, along with ALGON Chairman Hon. Maurice Orwough, Honourables Ephraim Kunde, Tiza Imojime, Terkimbi Ikyange and other commissioners.
We also deeply appreciate the presence of our esteemed Chairman, Chief Raymond Ihyembe, accompanied by his wife, Ohi; Chief Isaac Jolapamo, who graced the occasion with his daughter, Bose; and our remarkable Chair Ladies, Chief Mrs. Cynthia Dajoh and Chief Mrs. Erdoo Hwande.
Special recognition goes to the Fathers of the Day, Chief John Atom Akpera and Chief T.S. Adzaager, as well as our revered Traditional Fathers: Chief David Afatyo Ajoko, Chief Ambrose Iyortyer, Chief Nyiyongo Achiaku, and Chief Thomas Jam Gbinde, whose presence greatly enriched the event.
Special recognition goes to Alhaji Buhari Bala, Ibrahim Bamali, David Amoh, Senator David Mark, Senator Joseph Akaageeger, Barr. Emmanuel Jime, Barr. Benjamin Wayo, Moses Atagher, Barr. Joe Abaagu, Hon. Dorathy Mato, Benji Inienger, Benjamin Omale, Justice Puusu, Justice Shishi, General Lawrence Onoja, Chief Edward Ashiekaa,
Also to Engr. Joseph Zendesha, Sir Bernard Hom (SAN), Jidda Haruna, Barr. Tombuwua, Denen Aondoakaa, Sir James Iorpuu, Dr. Dennis Akura, Abubakar Aseer Ihyongo, Baaki, Leo Viashima, Alex Anshungu, Prof. Gabriel Akpen, Engr. Mlumun Ikpaahindi, John Tine, Dr. Stephen Hwande, Chief Gbaden Jam, Chief Joe Har, Hon. Julius Atorough, Chief Solomon Iorpev, Engr. Ujege, Dondo Ahile, Chief Adzuanongo, Rogers Adaaku, Dr. Gberndyer, Atsue Ishu, Engr. Mitin Dzungu, Hon. Stephen Numbeve,
Hon. Solomon Fave, Patrick Abe, Benjamin Achiatar, Apostle David Ajav, Chief Brown Okafor, Isaiah Clement, Rev. Isaac Ngobua, Akor Godwin, Shoyombo Afolabi, Dr. Bem Ugoh, and Mrs. Helen Agaigbe.
We also appreciate the contributions of special groups, including the University of Mkar delegation led by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Zachary Gundu; the Federal Polytechnic Oko delegation led by Acting Rector Dr. Eugene Ubaka; The Boys Brigade Patrons Council led by Secretary Mr. David Soba; Bristow Alumni led by Dr. Gbila; and Gboko Club. We further extend gratitude to traditional rulers, political leaders, and the central planning committee led by Arc. David Umah.
Other notable contributors include Dr. Benjamin Ashaver, Amb. Chive Kaave, Dr. Eugene Ivase, Hon. Solomon Kachinah, Rev. Levi Ibiem, Hon. Terlumun Ulaga, Hon. Ngukpen Diogo, Hon. John Ayaku, Hon. Chijoike Ibeziako, Hon. Moses Orshio, and Hon. Kukase Garba.
Additional members deserving of recognition are Hon. Anna Makama, Rev. Dr. Simeon Aande, Hon. Mwuese Ubebe, Hon. Josephine Akiga, Hon. Thomas Anajav, Hon. Simon Gesa, Hon. Barr. James Jinge, Hon. Godfrey Yagba, and Barr. Bemdoo Gwaza, who served as Secretary.
The central planning committee, under the leadership of Arc. David Umah, was commended for its exceptional efforts in organizing the milestone event.
The Gemades’ message reflected their gratitude to all sectors of society, from security agencies to youth groups, family members, and cultural organizations, who worked tirelessly to ensure the success of the occasion.
They prayed for a prosperous New Year 2025 for everyone who participated, emphasizing the importance of unity, love, and faith in building enduring relationships.
The 50th wedding anniversary of Senator and Chief Mrs. Barnabas Gemade was not just a celebration of their remarkable journey but also a testament to the strength of community and shared values. It served as a reminder of the power of collaboration and gratitude in achieving memorable milestones.