By Nosa Omorodion
The birthday anniversary celebration of foremost philanthropist and President/Founder, Pius Alile Coalition Initiative, PACI, Hon. Pius Alile, which began in Benin on the 17th May with an empowerment programme for artisans, women and students, through 18th May with a big birthday party, ended with thanksgiving to God in church by the celebrant, his loving and supportive wife and family.
The church hall was filled to capacity as friends, associates and well-wishers from all walks of life joined the large-hearted Hon. Pius Alile family to thank God for a successful and memorable celebration, highlighted by the appointment of Hon. Pius Alile by President Tinubu as a member of the Governing Council of the University of Port Harcourt.
In his remarks on the occasion, the chief celebrant, Hon. Pius Alile expressed his appreciation of those who came to celebrate with him and his family. He also thanked God for a successful ceremony.
Reviewing the ceremony, Hon. Pius Alile said that he hoped to enlarge the birthday celebration in future in such a way that he would use four days to give empowerment items to people.
Meanwhile, the compulsive philanthropist said that he has been favoured because his steps are ordered by God. He said that God gathers the storms of his life to launch him to favours. He then prayed that God should order the steps of those who came to celebrate with him. Furthermore, Hon. Pius Alile said that celebration is contagious. Therefore, he urged those present to imbibe the culture of celebrating with others so they can contact the grace that goes with it.
The wife of the celebrant and APC National Women Leader, Dr. Mrs Mary Alile, bubbling with excitement, had earlier urged the congregation to have the spirit of celebrating with others so they can also have the favour of celebration in their lives. She ended her remarks by asking the audience to join her in singing her husband’s favourite celebration song, a classic Benin song that expresses one’s appreciation of God’s favour.
At the end of the thanksgiving in church, the celebration moved to the residence of the Aliles for refreshments.