Governor Ahmed Ododo of Kogi State has congratulated renowned Nigerian artist and culture ambassador, Nike Davies-Okundaye, on her 75^th birthday.

The governor described her as one of Kogi’s greatest gifts to the world.

Mr Ododo gave the felicitation in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Ismaila Isah on Sunday in Lokoja.

Mr Ododo said Mrs Davies-Okundaye’s life and achievements had continued to bring honour to Kogi and Nigeria through her commitment to the promotion of African art, culture and  empowerment of young people.

The governor noted that from her humble background to becoming a respected global figure in the creative industry, she had remained a shining example of hard work, talent and dedication.

He said her efforts in preserving African culture through textile design, painting, fashion and mentorship from a rare perspective of a quintessential Nigerian have helped to keep the African story alive across the world.

Mr Ododo also praised her role in supporting the growth of arts and culture education in Kogi, especially with the establishment of the Nike Art and Culture Gallery in Ogidi, Ijumu Local Government Area of the state  and the Institute of African Heritage and Museum Studies at the Federal University Lokoja.

According to the governor, the projects and others in different parts of Nigeria will serve as lasting legacies for future generations and further position Kogi as an important centre for culture and learning.

The governor lauded Mrs Davies-Okundaye for remaining proud of her roots and for using her talent and influence to inspire many young Africans to believe in their dreams.

“On behalf of the government and people of Kogi, I celebrate Mama Davies-Okundaye on her 75^th birthday.

“We are proud of your journey, your contributions and the name you have built for yourself and for our state. I pray that God grants you more strength, good health and many more years of fulfilment,” he said.

 (NAN)