By Emmanuel Awari —Jalingo
Elder John Mamman, the former Chairman of the Taraba State Civil Service Commission, expressed his deep gratitude to God as he marked his 80th birthday on Sunday in Jalingo.
Mamman, who attributed his longevity and accomplishments to divine blessings, began his speech by praising the Almighty for His love, mercy, and favor.
“May I begin with my sincere appreciation of the Almighty God Jehovah Jireh, Jehovah Nissi, Jehovah Raah, Jehovah Elshaddai for His boundless love and mercies,” he said, acknowledging his family’s role in supporting him throughout the years.
The event was graced by Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas, who Mamman commended for his leadership in addressing some of the state’s most pressing challenges, such as traditional title disputes, banditry, armed robbery, and kidnappings.
Mamman also lauded the governor for completing key infrastructure projects, including the College of Nursing and Midwifery and the General Hospital in Lissam, Ussa Local Government Area.
He urged the governor to prioritize the resumption of retirement benefits for state retirees, a request he hopes will receive due attention.
Special recognition was given to the royal fathers of the day, including His Majesty Manu Ishaku Ada Ali Matakhitswen Aku Uka of Wukari and HRH Amb. Sanvala Varzoa Shimbura (Gara Donga), HRH Barr Sopiya Ahmadu Garboshi III, Chief of Takum, for their participation. Mamman emphasized their vital role in maintaining peace at the grassroots level despite the lack of legal support.
In his reflections on Nigeria’s journey, Mamman shared his experiences, discussing the evolution of crime, the economy, and corruption over the years. He lamented the rise of banditry and kidnappings, tracing the shift in criminal activity from burglaries in the pre-civil war period to the more organized crimes of today. On the economy, he recalled a time when Nigeria was self-sufficient, with thriving industries and low inflation, contrasting it with the current economic challenges and high levels of poverty. He also expressed concerns over the rise in corruption, which has severely impacted the quality of public services.
The former civil servant further shared his thoughts on technological advancements, highlighting the transformation in communication, especially the advent of mobile phones, which he believes has revolutionized daily life.
Reflecting on his legacy, Mamman emphasized the role he played in the creation of Taraba State and his enduring hope that the state would achieve its potential as an agricultural processing hub. He recalled the struggle for statehood alongside other key figures, attributing the eventual success to the leadership of General TY Danjuma.
In a heartfelt moment, Mamman revealed that the grand birthday celebration was a surprise orchestrated by his children, with his wife Catherine Titi Mamman playing a central role. He expressed deep gratitude to his wife for her unwavering support throughout their years together, despite challenges. In a playful note, he promised to remarry her in heaven if possible, as a gesture of his love and appreciation.
Chief Dr. Philip Danladi Duwe, the Chairman of the occasion, congratulated Mamman for his remarkable achievements and legacy, promising to continue learning from his life experiences.
Pastor Jimkuta Mamman, the celebrant’s son, also spoke highly of his father’s generosity, highlighting his capacity to embrace and nurture not only his biological children but many others, contributing to the betterment of society.
Elder John Mamman, blessed with 17 children and 25 grandchildren, concluded his speech by thanking God for his family and prophesied that all his descendants would live to over 100 years.
The event was a colorful and emotional celebration of Mamman’s life, marked by a sense of gratitude, reflection, and hope for the future.