Umuahia, the capital of Abia State, was in a festive mood over the weekend as prominent Nigerians gathered to celebrate the 75th birthday of elder statesman and founder of Neimeth Pharmaceuticals, Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa. The grand event, supported by the Abia State government, brought together political leaders, business moguls, traditional rulers, and cultural icons to honor a man widely regarded for his integrity and contributions to Nigeria’s growth.
Among the distinguished guests were Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi; Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, represented by his deputy, Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai; former Rivers State Governor, Celestine Omehia; and retired Military Administrator of Imo State, Gen. Ike Nwachukwu, who chaired the occasion. Others in attendance included Senators Enyinnaya Abaribe and Austin Akobundu, former Minister of State for Mines and Steel, Dr. Uche Ogah, and oil magnate Chief Chris Igwe.
Royalty and cultural leaders also graced the ceremony. Notable among them were the Obi of Onitsha, HRM Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe; Ohanaeze Ndigbo President-General, Senator Azuta Mbata; and the Eze Aro of Arochukwu Kingdom, Eze Eberechukwu Orji.
In his goodwill remarks, Governor Alex Otti described Ohuabunwa as “one of Nigeria’s finest,” praising his values, leadership, and long-standing impact on both business and national development. Otti reflected on Ohuabunwa’s career journey—from joining Pfizer in 1978 to becoming its Managing Director in less than two decades—as proof of resilience and excellence. He further announced plans to establish a leadership academy for Abia youths, where 1,000 teenagers will be trained in Artificial Intelligence, robotics, and 3D printing to prepare them for the future.
Other speakers echoed similar sentiments. Governor Mbah, in his message, hailed Ohuabunwa as a patriotic Nigerian whose life embodies integrity and excellence. Gen. Nwachukwu highlighted his legacy of service and sacrifice, while Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, his younger brother, described him as a beacon of integrity and a mentor to many.
The highlight of the celebration was the unveiling of Ohuabunwa’s new book, Driven by Revelation & Inspiration – My Journey Through the 2023 Nigeria’s Presidential Aspiration and Matters Arising, presented by Dr. Uche Ogah.
Visibly moved, Ohuabunwa credited his success to divine grace and expressed gratitude to Governor Otti for the honor, commending his administration’s strides in infrastructure, education, health, and security.
The event concluded with a strong sense of pride, as family, friends, and associates celebrated a man whose life continues to inspire generations in Abia and beyond.