By Rasheed Olanrewaju
If you are 72, healthy, and fulfilled, there is every reason to be thankful to the Almighty God, for the gift of life is the greatest of all gifts.
This sentiment explains why His Excellency, Clement David Ebri, Governor of Cross River State between 1991 and 1993, is in a celebratory and thankful mood at 72. His Excellency has just attained this milestone in a part of the world where life expectancy is continually challenged by excruciating socio-economic pressures that often lead to premature deaths.
Dr Ebri certainly exemplifies a special breed—a born leader with the willpower and vision to uplift humanity. His meritorious, dedicated, and selfless service has been unmatched, pleasing not just to the people of Cross River State but to Nigeria as a whole. It is no surprise he has been entrusted with numerous national assignments over the years.
At 72, Dr Ebri remains a touchstone for those fortunate enough to know him closely. Across more than seven decades, he has exemplified simplicity, a sublime outlook on life, and an unwavering care for humanity.
Ebri embodies the “tiger” in Wole Soyinka’s famous quote: “A tiger does not proclaim his tigritude.” He is the epitome of quiet strength, a man whose greatness, like the wind, is only felt when it touches lives, reminding humanity of the omnipotence of God.
For those anticipating a lavish, unforgettable birthday celebration, they may have to wait another year. The former governor is not one for ostentatious displays, especially in a time when many Nigerians are grappling with severe economic challenges. His governance style in Cross River State reflected this modesty, a quality many still admire.
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A United States study by Professor Scott Sanders of Brigham University reveals that the most productive age in human life is between 60 and 70, followed by 70 to 80. At 72, the urbane, cerebral, and celebrated elder statesman has surpassed one productive phase and is gracefully entering another.
In Cross River politics, Dr Ebri embodies the essence of “godfatherism,” though he wears it humbly and without fanfare. Rudyard Kipling’s words in 1910 aptly describe him: “If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue or walk with kings without losing the common touch, yours is the earth and everything that’s in it.”
As Governor of Cross River, Ebri played a pivotal role in mentoring future leaders. He appointed Donald Duke as Commissioner for Finance, a role that paved the way for Duke’s two-term governorship. Similarly, he supported a young Liyel Imoke to the Senate, who later became a minister and two-term governor. He elevated Senator Gershom Bassey, Professor Ivara Esu, and Pastor Usani Uguru Usani, among others, demonstrating his remarkable knack for nurturing talent.
Mentorship came naturally to Ebri. As a youth corps member in Ogun State in the late 1970s, he significantly contributed to human capital development. An economist by training, he began his career in journalism, rising to become Editor of Nigerian Chronicle. Throughout his political journey, he remained grounded, eschewing the allure of power and position.
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Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba (SAN), reflecting on Ebri’s 70th birthday, aptly described him: “Clem is deep. He is subtle. He is neither loud nor flamboyant but has unmistakable presence.” Ndoma-Egba recalls a governor who would drive himself unannounced and even face gatekeepers unaware of his identity, highlighting Ebri’s humility.
To me, as a journalist, Dr Ebri is not just a mentor but a father figure who has always guided me on matters of state and national interest. He introduced me to his family, further cementing our bond.
With a Second Class Upper in Economics from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Ebri’s career spans roles such as member of the 1989 Constituent Assembly, Chairman of the APC Advisory Council Women’s Progressive Campaign Team, and head of the Presidential Committee on National Biotechnology Development. He also served as National Chairman of the Progressive People’s Alliance, steering the party to govern two states.
In recognition of his service, Dr Ebri has received numerous honours, including Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) in 2011 and an honorary doctorate from the University of Calabar in 2019. Communities across Nigeria continue to celebrate his contributions.
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Seventy-two years ago, the world welcomed a remarkable man whose legacy continues to inspire. For Governor Ebri, December 11 is a day of gratitude—a time to celebrate life, count friends over years, and savour the blessings of a purposeful journey.
On this special occasion, I join countless others in celebrating Governor Ebri. His contributions as a mentor, journalist, economist, humanist, and political leader are immeasurable. It is my prayer, and the prayer of many, that his latter years be filled with vitality and that he continues to share his wealth of experience for the betterment of Cross River and Nigeria.
Happy birthday, Your Excellency!
Rasheed Olanrewaju Zubair, ANIPR, writes from Abuja.
