Prominent Niger Delta leader and philanthropist, High Chief Hon. Amb. Sobomabo Jackrich (Egberipapa), has congratulated renowned civil engineer and oil and gas entrepreneur, Engr. Matthew Tonlagha, on the occasion of his birthday, describing him as “a visionary trailblazer and a shining beacon of hope to the Niger Delta.”
In a congratulatory message made available to journalists on Sunday, Jackrich praised Tonlagha’s contributions to indigenous engineering, logistics and technical services in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, saying his corporate career reflects innovation, resilience and forward-thinking leadership.
“Engr. Matthew Tonlagha’s outstanding corporate and business career stands as a testament to excellence and innovation in indigenous engineering and technical services within Nigeria’s oil and gas sector,” Jackrich said.
He noted that Tonlagha’s vision and drive have strengthened local capacity and elevated the role of Niger Delta indigenes in national economic development, while also promoting peace and stability in the region.
According to him, “through clarity of vision and unwavering commitment, he has championed sustainable progress, strengthened local expertise and significantly enhanced the contributions of Niger Delta people to national growth and regional harmony.”
Jackrich also commended Tonlagha’s philanthropic interventions across Ijaw land and the wider Niger Delta, particularly in Benikrukru community of Gbaramatu Kingdom, describing them as impactful and far-reaching.
“His philanthropic footprint is deeply rooted in Benikrukru, Gbaramatu Kingdom, and has touched and transformed countless lives across Ijaw and Niger Delta communities,” he said.
He added that the celebrant’s sustained support for education, skills acquisition, youth empowerment, community development projects and direct assistance to the vulnerable has restored dignity and created opportunities for young people.
“Many young people today stand as entrepreneurs and emerging leaders because of the hope and practical empowerment he has consistently provided,” Jackrich stated, noting that such interventions have helped reduce despair, curb restiveness and promote peace in oil-bearing communities.
Describing Tonlagha as a role model to the younger generation, Jackrich said, “he remains a shining light to young Niger Delta entrepreneurs and emerging leaders, exemplifying resilience, integrity, patriotism and selfless service.”
He prayed that God would grant the celebrant good health, renewed strength and greater opportunities to continue impacting lives and contributing to regional and national development.
Engr. Matthew Tonlagha is widely regarded as a leading indigenous figure in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, with a reputation for community-centered development and youth empowerment. Ali Adoyi
Jackrich pays tribute to Tonlagha, describes him as visionary trailblazer
Jackrich pays tribute to Tonlagha, describes him as visionary trailblazer
