Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo has urged Salim Ibrahim, son of the Director-General, Protocol, Government House, and his wife, Sefawu Alfa, to prioritise communication and mutual understanding as they begin their marital life.
The Governor gave the advice at the wedding reception held in Lokoja on Saturday, urging the newlyweds to build their marriage around what works for them rather than blindly following advice from others.
The Governor who was represented by the former Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Right Honourable Umar Imam, noted that the couple came from different homes, backgrounds and experiences, stressing that they must come together as adults to build their own home and determine what works best for their union.
The Governor advised them to listen to counsel from family members, friends and other well-wishers but carefully consider what is suitable for their own circumstances, noting that what works for another couple may not necessarily work for them.
He also encouraged Salim and Sefawu to communicate openly, understand their differences and work together to build a lasting home, while wishing them happiness and success in their marriage.
The wedding ceremonies, which began with the Muslim Nikkah in Ola, Omala Local Government Area, on Friday, brought together family members, friends, government officials, traditional rulers and other well-wishers to celebrate the couple.
The Nikkah was attended by the Deputy Governor of Kogi State, Comrade Joel Salifu, who joined the families and other guests in praying for God’s blessings, peace and lasting happiness for the couple.
The Deputy Governor was accompanied by the Director-General, Kogi State Community Watch and Ancillary Matters, Hon. Muhammed Nasiru Alfa; Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Grassroots Mobilisation, Hon. Gambo Haruna; and Hon. Yahaya Adama, among others.
Speaking at the reception, the Director-General, Protocol, Government House and father of the groom, Alhaji Suleiman Ibrahim, expressed appreciation to the state government, friends, colleagues and other guests who honoured his family with their presence.
He expressed appreciation to friends and associates who stood by him and supported his family over the years, expressing gratitude for their presence and goodwill messages.
Ibrahim also expressed confidence in his son’s ability to build a successful home, saying he had sought to set a good example for his children and believed his son would follow the values and principles he had demonstrated.
The bride’s family also appreciates the guests for their presence and support, while wishing the couple a happy and prosperous married life.
The new couple jointly expressed gratitude to their families, friends, government officials, traditional rulers and other guests for celebrating with them and supporting their union.
The reception was attended by members of the State House of Assembly led by the speaker, Honourable Aliyu Umar, other government officials, traditional rulers and other prominent personalities.
