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The Director General of the Edo State Tourism Agency, Lady Vivian Elabor, on Sunday returned to her ancestral home of Ubiaja in Esan South East Local Government Area for a deeply symbolic thanksgiving celebration that blended faith, family, and renewed commitment to community service, marking what many described as a powerful homecoming rooted in gratitude and purpose.

The visit, which took place on December 14, 2025, was framed as a solemn yet joyful expression of thanksgiving to God, appreciation to her people, and reflection on the responsibility of leadership. Lady Elabor began the day with a Thanksgiving Mass at the Catholic Church in Ubiaja, where she publicly offered thanks to Almighty God, whom she reverently acknowledged as El ROI, for life, favour, and the opportunity to serve Edo State and her people.

Following the spiritual exercise, the celebration moved to her father’s compound in Eguare, Ubiaja, where she hosted an expansive reception for members of the community, political associates, family, and well-wishers. The atmosphere was festive as a large and enthusiastic crowd gathered to honour their daughter, whose leadership at the helm of the Edo State Tourism Agency has continued to attract admiration and goodwill.

Addressing the gathering, Lady Elabor spoke emotionally about the role of her people in her journey, describing them as her “pillar of support and strength after God.” She emphasized that her achievements and public service are firmly anchored on the prayers, encouragement, and solidarity of her community, which she said continue to inspire her to do more.

She also used the occasion to express her heartfelt appreciation to the Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Monday Okpebholo, for the confidence reposed in her and the opportunity to serve the state in her current capacity. Lady Elabor noted that the trust bestowed on her by the governor has given her a platform to contribute meaningfully to the growth, visibility, and global appeal of Edo State through tourism development. She described the opportunity as both an honour and a responsibility she does not take lightly.

The event took on added significance as it coincided with the birthday celebration of her father, Elder Prince Francis Elabor, turning the gathering into a dual celebration that merged public thanksgiving with intimate family joy. The convergence of both milestones added warmth and emotional depth to the occasion, further strengthening the bond between family and community.

Throughout the event, Lady Elabor moved freely among attendees, exchanging greetings and words of encouragement while calling on her people to remain united and steadfast in their collective pursuit of progress. She urged them to continue working together to elevate Esan South East, stressing that sustainable development thrives where unity and shared vision exist.

Reaffirming her dedication to the region, Lady Elabor made it clear that her homecoming was not merely ceremonial but a deliberate renewal of her commitment to Esan South East. She pledged to continue using her office as Director General of the Edo State Tourism Agency to draw positive attention, tourism opportunities, and development initiatives to the area.

She declared that she remains determined to be a vocal and active champion for Esan South East, promising to work tirelessly to ensure that the area’s unique cultural heritage and untapped potential receive the recognition and investment they deserve. According to her, tourism remains a powerful vehicle for economic growth, job creation, and cultural preservation, and Esan South East stands well-positioned to benefit from focused attention in this regard.

The thanksgiving event highlighted the enduring connection between leadership and the grassroots, reflecting a shared vision of progress not only for Esan South East but for Edo State as a whole. It also underscored Lady Elabor’s leadership philosophy, which places gratitude, service, and community engagement at the centre of public office.

The Edo State Tourism Agency, under her leadership, remains the government body responsible for promoting the state’s rich cultural heritage, historical sites, and vast tourism potential. With a renewed sense of purpose expressed during her homecoming, the agency continues to work towards positioning Edo State as a premier destination for both domestic and international tourists, while ensuring that local communities such as Esan South East are integral beneficiaries of

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