In a thrilling display of sportsmanship and camaraderie, the Bayelsa and Delta State Houses of Assembly faced off in a novelty football match in Warri, Delta State, to celebrate the 50th birth anniversary of Mathew Tonlagha, Chairman, Maton Engineering Nigeria Limited.
The event was a testament to Tonlagha’s impact in the Niger Delta region, with both Speakers, Rt Hon Emomotimi Dennis Guwor (Delta) and Rt Hon Abraham Ingobere (Bayelsa), serving as Captains of their teams.
The novelty football match, played at the Edjeba premises of SPDC, was watched by top government functionaries, friends and associates of the celebrant, and a crowd of sports enthusiasts across Bayelsa and Delta states, including the Speakers of Anambra and Edo State Houses of Assembly, Rt Hon Somtochukwu Udeze and Rt Hon Blessing Agbomian.
The fun-filled football tournament ended 5-3 on penalty in favour of the visiting Bayelsa State House of Assembly.
Speaking in separate interviews, the two Speakers expressed delight in having so honoured Mathew Tonlagha, a man they described as a pride of Niger Delta and philanthropist par excellence.
Guwor said, “I am delighted to have, together with my colleagues from Delta and Bayelsa states, celebrated my big Uncle, Mr. Mathew Tonlagha’s 50th birthday in such a grand sports event. It is in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the nation.
“His commitment to growth, development and the welfare of others through several empowerment programmes, is a shining example in the society. We are proud to have him as a part of the legislative family in Bayelsa and Delta states.
“Bayelsa and Delta State are big brothers. The novelty match has further strengthened the bond between the two states and will continue to grow stronger in years ahead”, Guwor added.
For his part, Bayelsa State Assembly Speaker, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere, noted, “Mr Tonlagha’s achievements are a testament to his character and vision. We are honoured to participate in this celebration and acknowledge his dedication to the Niger Delta region’s development, even as we wish him many more years of success and impact.”
The wife of the celebrant, Mrs Esther Tonlagha expressed gratitude for the honour done her husband by the two States Houses of Assembly.
She pointed out that attaining the golden age of 50 is a significant milestone, disclosing that the novelty match was part of a larger celebration of the birthday anniversary.
“The novelty football was very special and interesting with both teams giving it their all. I am happy that my husband was so honoured by those who make laws for peace and good governance in the society”, Mrs Tonlagha stated.
The novelty match was part of activities for the golden jubilee celebration, including a birthday praise day in Warri and book presentation also in Honour of the celebrant.
Mr Mathew Tonlagha is a renowned entrepreneur, industrialist and philanthropist with wide knowledge and influence in the oil and gas sector.
He is the Chairman of Maton Engineering Nigeria Limited and will be celebrating his 50th birth anniversary on Sunday 8 February 2026.
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