By Edirin Robinson in Kaduna
It was an atmosphere of joy, eating, drinking, dancing, and thanksgiving in U/Maisamari, Malali, in Kaduna North Local Government Area of Kaduna State, as family, friends, and well-wishers gathered to celebrate baby Neriah Bamshak Daniel as he turned one.
The first birthday celebration, which was held at the family residence, attracted neighbors, church members, colleagues, and relatives who came to rejoice with the family of Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Chere Sabo.
The celebrant, baby Neriah, who was beautifully dressed for the occasion, was the cynosure of all eyes as guests took turns carrying him, praying for him, and showering him with gifts.
In his remarks, the celebrant’s father, Mr. Daniel Chere Sabo, expressed gratitude to God for the special day, saying Neriah’s birth seemed like just yesterday. He thanked God for His protection, good health, and mercy upon the baby from birth to his first birthday.
Mr. Sabo also thanked the family members, friends, neighbors, and church members who turned up to celebrate his son, describing their presence as overwhelming and a demonstration of true love. He prayed that God would bless everyone and grant them journey mercies as they returned to their various destinations.
Similarly, the celebrant’s mother, Mrs. Patricia Daniel, expressed profound appreciation to God for seeing her first fruit, whom He opened her womb to, through his first birthday celebration.
Mrs. Daniel, who could not hide her joy, said the past 365 days had been filled with unforgettable experiences and blessings, adding that motherhood had been a blessing to her. She prayed for God’s continued wisdom and grace to nurture baby Neriah in the way of the Lord.
The event also featured a brief thanksgiving prayer session led by church members, who committed the child into God’s hands and prayed for long life, good health, wisdom, and a bright future for him.
Some neighbors who spoke at the event described baby Neriah as a source of joy to the entire community. Mrs. Saratu Ayuba, a neighbor, said, “We thank God for the life of baby Neriah. He has brought joy to this compound. We pray he will grow in wisdom, strength, and in favor with God and man. Happy birthday to our small oga.”
Also speaking, another neighbor, Miss Temiloluwa Oyelola, congratulated the family and offered a birthday message on behalf of her family. She said, “On behalf of my family, we celebrate with Mr. and Mrs. Daniel on the first birthday of baby Neriah Bamshak Daniel. One year has passed; many more years to come in good health and prosperity. May the Lord keep him and make him great.”
The celebration climaxed with the cutting of the birthday cake, group photographs, dancing, and merriment as guests were treated to assorted foods and drinks.