The Cross River State Ministry of International Donor Coordination has celebrated staff whose birthdays fell within the third quarter of 2026, with the Commissioner, Elder Dr. Hippolatus Ogar Lukpata, describing the occasion as an opportunity to appreciate God for the gift and preservation of life.
The quarterly celebration, which honoured staff born in July, August and September, brought members of staff together in an atmosphere of thanksgiving, camaraderie and renewed appreciation for one another.
Represented by the Director of Administration, Princess Ekaete B. Okon, the Commissioner congratulated the celebrants and urged staff to sustain the spirit of thanksgiving, noting that life remained a precious gift from God, who alone had the power to give and take it.
She explained that the Ministry’s tradition of celebrating staff birthdays was a deliberate expression of gratitude for God’s love, kindness and continued preservation, as well as an opportunity to acknowledge Him as the ultimate sustainer and provider of the resources that support life.
According to her, the presence of staff at the celebration, their good health and the conducive working environment were reasons to remain grateful to God, stressing that the privilege of gathering together was itself a blessing.
Princess Okon also commended the Commissioner for his fatherly disposition and leadership, saying his approach to administration had fostered harmony, understanding and team spirit among members of staff.
The Welfare Committee Chair, Lady Esther Dan, said the quarterly birthday celebration had become a cherished tradition of the Ministry, providing staff with an opportunity to unwind, ease the pressures of work and strengthen bonds of unity and togetherness.
She expressed appreciation to the Commissioner for sustaining the tradition and prayed for continued wisdom, strength and good health for him, while wishing the July, August and September celebrants greater blessings in their new years.
The Director, Scientific, Mr. Chris Ettah, described the celebration as refreshing, saying the culture had provided staff with an avenue to appreciate good moments and foster healthier relationships within the workplace.
Similarly, the Director, Planning, Research and Statistics, Mr. Ukam T. Edadi, said the celebration served as a morale booster, giving staff the opportunity to reflect on their individual journeys, appreciate the gift of life and make necessary adjustments for the future.
He noted that life offered hope and that faith in God provided an even greater hope for progress, urging staff to remain positive and grateful as they continued their service.
The third-quarter celebrants were Lady Esther Dan, Mr. Chris Ettah, Mr. Raphael Ogon, Ms. Kayoye Ikpi, Mr. Ukam T. Edadi, Mrs. Ekaette Choice Elemi and Mr. Iloke Egbe.
Highlights of the celebration included prayers for the celebrants, prayers for the Ministry and Cross River State, cutting of the birthday cake and dancing, as staff celebrated the milestone in an atmosphere of joy and togetherness.
By Iloke Egbe
