Former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan joined other prominent personalities, as well as Uche Azikiwe, wife of Nigeria’s first President, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, in Owerri to honour Chief Success Akagburuonye on his 60th birthday.

Representing Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, the Deputy Governor, Chinyere Ekomaru, described Akagburuonye as a committed philanthropist, devoted politician, and God-fearing individual whose generosity cuts across different spheres. He noted that having his mother alive at his age is a rare blessing and said the presence of two former presidents at the celebration reflects the impact of his life.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan said the gathering was a celebration of resilience, achievement, and meaningful impact. He described the celebrant as a successful entrepreneur whose life story teaches that the end of a journey matters more than its beginning. Jonathan added that through the Hope Rising Foundation and other initiatives, Akagburuonye has touched thousands of lives through scholarships, housing projects, and access to clean water, contributing significantly to nation-building.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo expressed gratitude to God and paid tribute to Akagburuonye’s mother, congratulating her not merely for her age but for raising a son whose life has positively influenced many. He jokingly promised to attend her 110th birthday celebration.

In his sermon, the General Superintendent of the Assemblies of God Church, Reverend Abel Amadi, encouraged the celebrant to remain steadfast in service to humanity, noting that true success often attracts envy, just as even Jesus Christ faced challenges while doing good.

Responding, Chief Akagburuonye thanked God for fulfilling many of his aspirations, stating that divine timing is always perfect. He also commended Governor Hope Uzodimma for improving security in Imo State and expressed joy at the presence of Obasanjo, whom he described as a father figure.

Reflecting on his journey, Akagburuonye said he remains grateful for a life free of scandal. He recalled facilitating the introduction of telephone services to Mbaise in 2001 and building the Noah’s Ark Assemblies of God Church as a fulfilment of a vow to God.

Among other dignitaries present were former Ohanaeze Secretary-General Okey Emuchay, Nze Fidelis Oluchukwu Chukwu, Reuben Abati, Bishop Anthony Muse, Bishop Njoku, Bishop Dan Jacobs, Bishop Titus Akanabu, and Chief Alex Ubaka Achebe.

The event featured prayers by members of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria and visiting clerics from the United States, who prayed for continued blessings upon the celebrant.

Activities marking the occasion included the flag-off of the Ogbor Uvuru Airport Road project and the commissioning of a family house project at Ogbor Uvuru in Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State.