*CONGRATULATIONS TO SIR CHIEF DR. GABRIEL OSAWARU IGBINEDION, CFR, THE ESAMA OF BENIN KINGDOM, ON HIS 92ND BIRTHDAY*
Today, we celebrate an icon, a trailblazer, and a living legend — *Sir Chief Dr. Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, CFR*, the *Esama of Benin Kingdom*, on the auspicious occasion of his *92nd birthday*.
Known to millions as *“The Lion of Okada”*, Esama is a name that commands respect across Nigeria and beyond. You are not just a royal father, but a great investor, an industrialist, and a visionary who dared to dream big and built institutions that have transformed lives.
From establishing the *Igbinedion Education Centre*, to founding *Igbinedion University, Okada* — Nigeria’s first private university — to your investments in media, hospitality, and aviation, your legacy is written in the progress of Edo State and Nigeria.
Your service as *Honorary Romanian Ambassador to Edo and Delta States* further reflects the global respect you command and your commitment to building bridges of friendship and development across nations.
For 92 years, you have embodied wisdom, philanthropy, courage, and an unshakable love for the Benin Kingdom and its people. You have remained a father to all, a voice of counsel, and a pillar of support to governments and communities.
On this milestone, we join the good people of Benin Kingdom, Edo State, and well-wishers around the world to celebrate you.
We pray that Almighty God continues to grant you sound health, strength, joy, and many more years of impactful service.
*Happy 92nd Birthday, Esama!*
*The Lion of Okada lives on. May your reign be long and your legacy endure.*
Festus Alenkhe
09-09-2026
