By Ade Iyamoye
The Catholic community in Abuja, alongside family, friends and well-wishers, on Friday, September 26, celebrated Engr. Sir Emmanuel Mbaka, the Chief Executive Officer of Platinum Mortgage Bank, as he marked his 65th birthday with thanksgiving to God for his life of service, generosity and commitment to humanity.
The celebration, which took place at St. Gabriel Chaplaincy, Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN), began with a Holy Mass presided over by the Deputy Secretary General of CSN, Rev. Fr. Augustine Okochi, who in his homily urged Christians to reflect daily on the question, “Who is Jesus to you?” Drawing from the Gospel, Fr. Okochi stressed that true discipleship requires accepting Christ in His totality – His glory, suffering and resurrection.
“There is nothing like crossless Christianity,” he warned, reminding the faithful that following Christ demands sacrifice, perseverance and faith in eternal life.
Tributes poured in for the celebrant, with Chaplain of St. Gabriel Chaplaincy, Rev. Fr. Michael Banjo, describing Mbaka as “a major pillar of the chaplaincy.”
He recalled how the celebrant singlehandedly built the CSM Resource Centre and the new office complex currently housing Caritas Nigeria, among other contributions to the growth of the Church.
“His generosity and friendship have been invaluable, not just to the chaplaincy, but to the wider Catholic family,” Fr. Banjo noted.
In his remarks, Sir Mbaka expressed gratitude to God for the gift of life, acknowledging that his journey had only been possible by divine grace.
“I am overwhelmed and overjoyed. I can’t express my happiness and feelings as God has given me one more year. I will continue to serve Him as I have always done,” he said.
He urged Christians to find joy in serving God, assuring that God never abandons those who love Him, especially in their moments of need.
The event was attended by priests from within and outside Abuja, including those from Lagos, as well as colleagues, business associates and members of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria.
The Mass was followed by a reception where guests joined in celebrating the life and achievements of the Platinum Mortgage Bank boss, who pledged to remain steadfast in faith and service as he journeys beyond 65.
