By Nsan Ndoma-Neji, Calabar
It was an emotional moment on Saturday at Ikot Ushie Town Council Hall, Calabar, as Akparabong-born farmer and entrepreneur, Engr. Dr. Amba Ndoma-Egba, gave out his daughter in marriage.
His daughter, Emilia Amba Ndoma-Egba, was formally joined in holy matrimony to Mr. Israel Emmanuel, Chief Executive Officer of Starry Art Studio, Calabar, in a ceremony that drew family members, friends and business associates.
The hall was filled with joy and thanksgiving as the couple exchanged vows, but all eyes were on the bride’s father who was visibly moved while performing the traditional handing over.
Fighting back tears, Dr. Egba offered prayers for the union, saying, “We thank God. In a union of two people, I am praying that they have a good, successful and blissful marriage.”
He later explained why he hesitated to join the groom’s parents at the high table before the couple’s nuptial dance.
He said, “You won’t understand. I was caught up with that emotional feeling that I needed my daughter to perhaps stay in my house and consolidate more before gaining independence.”
Despite the emotion, he composed himself to give the couple his 3-point marriage nuggets for a blissful home, reiterating, “My daughter, as you enter this new chapter, I want you to remember three things. One, be a wife, but do not forget to be a woman. Keep your dreams alive, your voice, your dignity.
“Two, marriage will test you, it is not every day you will agree, but never let anger sleep in your house overnight. Talk, forgive quickly. Three, respect and cherish each other, you and your husband. That is how a house becomes a home.”
The groom, filled with joy, described his bride as “kind-hearted, obedient and very submissive,” qualities he described as the core attributes any man desires.
On her part, the bride described her husband as “very intentional, supportive and God-fearing” and one who loves her for who she is.
Also speaking, a Lagos-based businessman and cousin to the bride, Mr. Amba Manyor Ndoma-Egba Jr., advised the couple to guard their home.
He admonished, “Try as much as possible to be confidential with issues concerning your marriage, don’t allow any third party to interfere with issues concerning your marriage.”
