It was a gathering of family members, friends, captains of industry, clergy, and well-wishers at Okuokoko in Okpe Local Government Area of Delta State on Saturday, Ist of August 2026, as Ambassador Chief Anthony Okoro and wife , Ambassador Mrs. Cecelia Okoro, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in grand style.
The golden jubilee celebration, held at Nezerfort Model High School, Okuokoko, has been described by guests present as remarkable and inspiring occasion that reflects God's faithfulness and enduring strength of marriage.
Speaking during the occasion, the celebrant,Chief Anthony Okoro attributed the success and longevity of their marriage to love, patience, tolerance, mutual understanding, and above all, God's grace.
According to him, many marriages failed because couples lack genuine love, understanding, and the willingness to make sacrifices for each other.
"For any marriage to stand the test of time, there must be love, tolerance, patience, and understanding between the couple. Neither the husband nor the wife should see himself or herself as superior to the other. They must put God first in everything they do," he said.
The celebrant acknowledged the fact that their 50-year marital journey had not been without challenges but noted that their commitment to understanding each other helped them to overcome difficult moments.
"If one partner offends the other, he or she should be willing to apologise. Saying 'sorry' is the tonic of marriage," he added.
He advised intending couples to learn from older generations, remain focused, and build their relationships on peace, mutual respect, and the fear of God.
In her remarks, Ambassador Mrs. Cecelia Okoro said marriage is a lifelong learning process, stressing that no one ever graduates from the "school of marriage."
"In the school of marriage, no one graduates because every day comes with new lessons. The Spirit of God should be the guiding force in every home," she said.
She attributed their success of 50 years of togetherness was possible entirely due to God's grace, noting that, forgiveness and peace can only flourish where God is at the centre of the marriage.
"It takes the grace of God to achieving lasting peace in marriages.When God dwells in your heart, you learn to forgive," she said.
Mrs. Okoro also advised young women preparing for marriage to be respectful, supportive, and committed to their homes, while expressing gratitude to God for sustaining their union over the past five decades.
In his a goodwill message, Bishop Dr. Henry Aghwefada described the couple's marriage as a shining example worthy of emulation. He observed that every successful marriage experiences disagreements, but what distinguishes enduring unions is the ability of couples to resolve their differences with love and understanding.
He thanked God for preserving the couple and prayed for many more years of good health, peace, and marital bliss.
On his part, Alhaji Paxman Ekpuze congratulated the couple on reaching the remarkable milestone, describing their 50-year union as a testimony of God's faithfulness.
He urged families to continue promoting unity, love, and togetherness while wishing the celebrants many more happy years of togetherness
The celebration reached its climax with the cutting of the anniversary cake and a joyous dance session by the couple, family members, and guests- all in thanksgiving to God for five decades of a successful and enduring marriage.