By Vincent Ujumadu
AWKA—GOVERNOR Peter Obi of Anambra State has commended renowned novelist and doyen of literature,  Prof. Chinua Achebe, on his 80th birthday, saying the people of the state would ever remain proud of him.

In a letter to Achebe, who hails from Anambra State, the governor said his administration would always cherish advice and criticisms from the American-based professor in the interest of the state.

Obi’s letter to Achebe read: “Eighty years of outstanding achievements are worth celebrating, especially when you epitomize the Igbo spirit of enterprise, hard work, intellectualism and resilience. You placed our people on the world map by your literary exploits; we shall forever be proud of you and your achievements.

“Coming from your home state of Anambra, we would have loved to shower you with gifts and presents. But we have no tokens worthy of your stature. We, however, assure you that we shall continue to hold you in the highest esteem. We shall continue to look up to you as our worthy Ambassador and a role model for our citizens.

“As you mark these glorious years of achievements, may I take this opportunity to urge you not to relent in your efforts at contributing towards the progress and development of Anambra State and Nigeria, through stimulating activities such as the colloquium you organized last year at Providence, Rhodes Island.

“We also cherish your occasional constructive criticisms of those in authority who stray. I also urge you to continue to assist our dear state, especially by way of offering advice for the good and progress of our dear state.”