High-profile dignitaries and Nigerians from all walks of life, on Sunday, showered encomiums on Mr Mathew Tonlagha, the Chairman of Maton Engineering Nigeria Limited, as he marked his 50th birthday in Abuja.
The colourful event also featured the public presentation of the book: “Forged in the Creeks”, written by Olaokun Soyinka.
In attendance were former President Goodluck Jonathan, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and several state governors led by the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.
Speaking at the event, Senator Akpabio lauded Tonlagha for his contributions to the Niger Delta in particular, and Nigeria in general.
Akpabio, who unveiled the book, said: “Your life’s journey has consistently reflected vision, discipline and an unwavering commitment to high standards—qualities that have not only defined your leadership but have continued to inspire many within and beyond your professional sphere.
“Your contributions to enterprise, community development and national growth stand as enduring testimonies to a life of committed progress and excellence,” he added.
In his remarks, former President Jonathan described Tonlagha as a visionary who worked diligently to achieve his dreams.
He said: “Turning 50 is a significant milestone—one that offers the opportunity to reflect on a life of purpose, impact and service. Your journey as an entrepreneur and patriot exemplifies the virtues of resilience and commitment to national development.
“Through Maton Engineering Nigeria Limited, you have demonstrated how indigenous enterprises can contribute meaningfully to economic growth, job creation and capacity development in Nigeria.”
The Celebrant was presented with awards by the Nigerian Union of Journalists, Coalition of Civil Society Organisations, and Nigerian Youth Council
And in a related development, the EMT Foundation donated a coaster bus to Ugborikoko Secondary School in Delta State, the celebrant’s alma mater, as part of the celebration.
The donation was made by the Esther Matthew Tonlagha Foundation at the school premises.
Dr. Esther Tonlagha, founder of EMTF, noted that education remains a powerful tool for shaping the future, adding that investing in young people is the surest way to build strong communities.
According to her: “The foundation chose to mark not with fanfare alone, but with a meaningful gift that would directly support students and teachers.”
The school’s principal, Mr Irhirhi Masson Ufuoma, described the donation as timely and transformative, noting that it would immediately improve school operations and student engagement beyond the classroom.
For the school, Ufuoma said the bus represents a solution to long-standing transportation challenges that have limited participation in academic trips, inter-school competitions, and extracurricular activities. With the new addition, opportunities once out of reach are now within reach.
Students welcomed the bus with excitement, while teachers and community leaders praised the foundation for turning a personal celebration into a shared blessing.
Over the years, the Esther Matthew Tonlagha Foundation has remained committed to supporting education, health, and empowerment initiatives across Delta State, and the donation to Ugborikoko Secondary School further reflects its vision of building sustainable impact through purposeful giving.
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