Delta State Governor, Senator Dr Ifeanyi Okowa has described Minister of State Petroleum, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu as a committed statesman who has brought lots of innovation and sanity in the Nigerian Petroleum Industry.

Governor Okowa said this in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Charles Aniagwu, in Asaba, on Monday, to congratulate Kachikwu on his 61st birthday.

The Governor said, “I wish to, most sincerely, congratulate you on your 61st birthday. My family and I are pleased to join your numerous well-wishers to felicitate with you as you mark this day.

According to Governor Okowa, “the sterling contributions of Kachikwu to the development of the Oil Industry in Nigeria is legendary and worthy of commendation”.

Governor Okowa noted that Dr Kachikwu has ensured continuous and stable oil production in Nigeria with his special peace advocacy and stakeholders engagements in the Niger Delta.

“The birth of great men is heralded by great events and are usually for a mission. Your coming to manage the Oil Industry in Nigeria at this time is indeed for a purpose, adding “Nigerians can attest to your doggedness, commitment and steadfastness in managing the Oil Industry as reflected in the monumental achievements recorded under your leadership of the ministry.

“On behalf of my family, the government and people of Delta State, i congratulate a gentleman of honour, courage and integrity, a leading light of this generation, a core professional and an illustrious Deltan, Dr Ibe Kachikwu on his 61st birthday.

“In the past 61 years, your family and indeed your political and business associates and admirers do have cause to be grateful to Almighty God for having granted you a life of great accomplishment and abiding fulfillment,” Governor Okowa wrote.

He wished Ibe Kachikwu, a very happy and memorable 61st birthday celebrations.