By Azogor Ideba
Years before hitting the spotlight as Chief of Staff to governor of Cross River State on June 6, 2023, Hon. Emmanel Ironbar, had since perfected the art of benevolence, not only religiously but also altruistically. Today, his art of giving has become his secret to doors of opportunities and accomplishment; and this according to him, has come with immense fulfilment.
The beauty of life is not analysed by how happy you are but by how happy you can make others. According to Winston S. Churchill: “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give”.
Breathing life into Roy T. Bennett’s supposition that we help others without any reason and give without the expectation of receiving anything in return, Ironbar’s solemn vow, converted to a self-given task, is to achieve greater social impacts on earth while reaching out to hundreds of thousands of indigent and vulnerable members in the society. He has consistently provided immeasurable material and financial support for multitude of people to enable them live a decent life and also fend for their families. His last birthday celebration, for instance, which was marked by thoughtful gestures, including parties for street kids, medical outreach and visitation to orphanages is still fresh in our memory.
With every fiber of his being, he opens his doors and arms to those in need, bringing joy and warmth to countless lives.
Beyond the governor’s office, his home, hitherto a quiet and peaceful space, has become a daily bustling hub, serenaded with sounds of laughter and gratitude. Ironbar’s residence holds no bars. It is ever present with a sea of people across all spectra of the society. Yet, in the midst of the beautiful chaos, he moves through the crowds with calm and a gentle smile, his eyes twinkling with delight as he attends to them one after the other. The scenes are usually nothing short of enchantment; and these scenarios recur daily.
It is always a memorable experience savoring the joy and laughter that lighted people’s hearts and faces as they strolled out with a hand full of goody bags or envelopes to a waiting family whose hope for feeding that day, possibly, had been bleak.
There is nothing more beautiful than going out of our way to make life beautiful for others. He, like Confucius, believes that no act of kindness, however small is ever wasted and whoever secures the good of others has already secured his own good. At the end of the day, it is not about what you have accomplished, but who you have lifted up, who you have made better. There is no better religion than reaching down and helping to lift up others.
When munificence is a way of life, empathy and generosity become the guiding principles of one’s actions and decisions, leading to a life of purpose and impacts.
Humble and unassuming, Ironbar’s benevolence is not a strategy to chase clout or seek either social or political validation like others employ. His, is a way of life.
Admired for his approachable demeanor, straightforwardness, and ability to foster collaboration among government departments and stakeholders, Ironbar over the last two years, particularly, has demonstrated firm commitment to public service, and also, unflinching loyalty to his principal, Governor Bassey Otu.
Recently awarded best chief of staff in Nigeria for the year 2024, this significant honor was summarily to recognize his outstanding contributions to effective governance in Cross River State; his untiring efforts, energetic approach and generosity which have made significant impacts on governance in the state.
As he continues to serve, his impact will undoubtedly be felt for many more years to come.
As we cultivate munificence, we not only uplift others but also discover the true depths of our own humanity May we all strive to spread kindness and warmth on those around us. After all, the true measure of our wealth is the kindness we share with others.
According to Ironbar, it is not what we take but what we give that truly defines us. If nothing else, may our acts of kindness be the legacy we leave behind.