TINUBU, OKPEBHOLO, EDO LEADERS OF THOUGHT, APC STAKEHOLDERS LEAD TRIBUTES AS OSAGIE IZE-IYAMU, WIFE IDIA CELEBRATE JOINT BIRTHDAY TODAY.
Sunday, June 21, 2026 | Benin City
Benin City is aglow today with goodwill as political leaders, governance institutions, and civil society groups across Nigeria converge to celebrate the joint birthday of Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu and Prof. Mrs. Idia Inibokun Ize-Iyamu. Though messages began streaming in yesterday, June 20, the celebration peaks today, Sunday June 21, framing the couple as a rare blend of faith, intellect, and enduring public service.
1. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR
Leading the felicitations from Aso Villa, President Tinubu described the Ize-Iyamus as “distinguished Nigerians whose lives exemplify service, leadership, and commitment to national development.” In a message signed by Bayo Onanuga, the President recalled Pastor Ize-Iyamu’s democratic contributions since 1999 — former SSG, Chief of Staff, Vice-Chairman South-South ACN, and APC chieftain. He also hailed Prof. Idia, CMD of UBTH, for “exemplary leadership and service to humanity” strengthening healthcare in the South-South. He prayed for their continued health, wisdom, and impact.
2. Edo State Governor, Sen. Monday Okpebholo
Governor Okpebholo, through CPS Dr. Patrick Ebojele, joined Edo people today in celebrating the couple as Nigerians “grounded in faith, disciplined by hard work, and moved by genuine service.” He commended Prof. Idia’s academic and medical achievements, noting “excellence and compassion are not in conflict.” He prayed for their home: “May God reward your years of service with sound health, renewed strength, and many more seasons of fulfillment.”
3. Edo Leaders of Thought
Dr. Usiobaifo Johnson and Prof. Oni Obakpolor described Pastor Osagie as a leader whose “compass remains fixed on justice, equity, and faith-driven governance,” embodying politics as stewardship. Prof. Idia was hailed as the “fusion of scholarship and statesmanship,” reshaping political culture for Edo women and youth. They concluded: “Strong families build strong societies, and strong societies build a strong nation.”
4. Concern Edo State APC Stakeholders
Dr. Elvis Igbinosa and Engr. Kingsley Uwadia issued a “heart warning” to despair and division. They celebrated Pastor Ize-Iyamu as a “compass” who taught that “power without purpose is noise, and leadership without God is empty.” Honoring his mentorship and resilience, they prayed: “May God renew your strength like the eagle’s… Edo’s best days are ahead.”
5. IYAMIDR Nigeria / Comrade Solomon Okoduwa
Comrade Solomon Okoduwa praised both celebrants for service to God, nation, and humanity. He lauded Pastor Osagie’s governance and philanthropy, and Prof. Idia’s transformation of UBTH in patient care and facility development, saying their leadership “continues to inspire young people across Nigeria.”
6. Comrade Ikhuenbor Felix Igbinevbo (Mr. Figo)
In a brief tribute titled _“A Double Celebration of Grace and Excellence,”_ Comrade Igbinevbo described the shared birthday as “a rare and beautiful testament to God’s divine favour.” He celebrated their dedication to humanity, family, faith, and community development, praying for continued health, wisdom, peace, and many more years of impactful service.
7. Orhionmwon Local Government Council / Hon. Thompson Osagie
The Executive Chairman, through CPS Dennis Ugbudian, extended congratulations on behalf of Orhionmwon LGA. He commended Pastor Ize-Iyamu as a “rare leader” defined by visionary leadership, grassroots appeal, and commitment to Edo’s advancement, noting his role as bridge-builder and mentor. He hailed Prof. Idia as an “accomplished medical expert and exemplary administrator” whose leadership at UBTH has strengthened Nigeria’s healthcare reputation. He prayed for God’s blessing of health, wisdom, and more fruitful years of service.
The Unifying Message Today
From Aso Villa to Dennis Osadebay House, from party stakeholders to council halls and civil society, one thread runs through all tributes: the Ize-Iyamus embody leadership where conviction meets compassion, and public office is treated as a covenant with the people. Today’s celebration marks not just years added to life, but lives added to their years through mentorship, service, and impact.
Signed for the Ize-Iyamu Family & Support Base,
Chris Azebamwan
Spokesman, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu Campaign Organization
Sunday, June 21, 2026
