It was a day of celebration for an iconic mother and grandmother, Deaconess (Emerita) Victoria Toritseju Nesiama, who turned 80 years old on the occasion of her birth anniversary on Monday, May 20, 2024, as the octogenarian was honoured by her children, relatives and well-wishers to a reception party that held at the Brownsville Coliseum in Ogunu, Delta State, on Monday evening.

The reception ceremony, which was a continuation of the 80th birthday celebration that began in the morning with a Thanksgiving Service at the First Baptist Church in Warri, was well attended by the creme-de-lac in society that cut across the religious, political, business, and social class.

Highlights of the activities at the colourful reception venue include the cutting of the birthday cake by the octogenarian celebrant, presentation of tributes by her children among others, photograph session, with musical entertainment and traditional dance display by an Itsekiri cultural troupe as well as foods and drinks to the delight of guests.

Leading the children in their tributes, the first son, Mr. Elvis Edoh, said his mother not only helped mould him into the man he is today but also put him in her prayers consistently, as noted when he wrote, "Oh Mummy you never relent on praying for me and my family at every given opportunity and I’m a proof that God hears your prayers. Words are truly not enough to express my deepest gratitude to you and I’m thankful to God for the opportunity to celebrate this milestone with you my dear Mother. I pray to God that He will keep you in good and perfect health for us all and continue to grant you the desires of your heart in Jesus name, Amen. Happy Birthday Mumsq!"

Another son, popularly known as The Commodore of Hope, Omateseye Nesiama (rtd) said, "It is with profound gratitude and admiration that I celebrate you today and always, acknowledging the embodiment of the virtues described in the scriptures (Proverbs 31:10-12, 15, 20, 26, 30)… As we celebrate your 80th milestone, we honour not just the years you have lived but the profound impact you have had on our lives… May your light shine ever brighter, illuminating the path for generations to come. May your prayers echo through time, touching hearts yet unknown. And may your love, which knows no bounds, be a beacon of hope and inspiration for all who have the privilege of knowing you," the former candidate for Delta South Senatorial District prayed.

"My beloved mother, I thank you for submitting your womb and allowing the Lord to knit me in" began Omawumi Efuah Nesiama, a daughter. "I thank you for birthing me, loving me, and nurturing me. I thank you for the prayers and counsel (I wish I took all). You taught me and still teaching me a lot. You taught me the meaning of sacrifice. This page cannot contain all. I’m glad I have the opportunity to say to you ‘Thank You Mum’. I love you deeply. I celebrate you today. Happy Birthday VEE International" as she offered her congratulations.

Another of the celebrant's daughter, Ete Irene Olopade, noted that her mother's "kindness, generosity, and selflessness" helped inspired her "to be a better person and to always strive for excellence" just as she offered her wishes in her tributes thus: "...On this milestone birthday, I want to thank you for being the most amazing mother a child could ask for. Your love and teachings have been my rock, your wisdom my guiding light, and your presence my greatest blessing. May this day be filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories as we celebrate the remarkable woman you are. Happy 80th birthday, Mom. I love you more than words can express."

On his part, another of her son known as Omatseyione (Capt. Nesco) noted in his tributes that their mother's best gift to them was bringing them up in a godly way, just as he appreciated their mother when he said, “Thank you my dearest mother for the opportunity to experience your unique and supernatural friendship with God; your love and care for your husband; your love, care, and discipline of your children and now extended to your grandchildren; your fellowship with the body of Christ and humanity, and your preparations for a glorious life in eternity. The Lord has been good to you. His love endures forever, and His faithfulness continues through all generations. Psalm 100:5.”

For Dcn Omatsola Omiretsuli Nesiamatie Nesiama, one of her sons simply wrote: "Dearly beloved mother and highly-esteemed Deaconess Victoria Nesiama, glorious things are spoken of you. You are blessed among women. You are marvelously helped from above. By your fruits, you are known and shall be known. You remain exemplary in words and deeds. Your prayers are effectual and fervent. Your love for children is real. You’re quick to adapt positively to situation to the glory of God. By the power of The Holy Spirit of God, may you continue to oppress forward towards the mark of the prize of the high calling and may you fulfill your ministry in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen. I rejoice and give thanks to God Almighty for making you a vessel unto honour."

Lastly, the octogenarian's last daughter, Omabosanwa Sandra Nesiama went down memory lane: “When I think of my mom, I remember that poem I learnt in my kindergarten years, ‘Who sat and watched my infant head, when sleeping on my cradle bed. My Mother.’ Yes, that is my mom at 100%. My mom is the true example of what is written in Proverbs 31 in the Holy Bible of the virtuous woman. She taught me in all areas, academically, spiritually, physically and all things good and true… My mom is my go-to fine girl. She’s my rock, cheerleader, strong support and a disciplinarian to the core. Mom I pray God keeps you longer with us for me to keep making you proud, happy and for you eating the fruits of your labour in divine health by His grace and mercy, Love you always. Happy 80th Birthday Momsq.”

View more photos of the celebration on PENGlobal Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/8YPCVtvNX7bUKL1n/?mibextid=oFDknk

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