Stella Kragha marks 80th birthday with message of faith, resilience

Stella Kragha, who lost her parents at the age of 12, marked her 80th birthday in Lagos last night with a heartfelt reflection on survival, faith, and gratitude. Born on 4 June 1945, Kragha faced early adversity. Her childhood was marked by multiple relocations following the death of her parents. Despite the instability, she credited […]

Stella Kragha, who lost her parents at the age of 12, marked her 80th birthday in Lagos last night with a heartfelt reflection on survival, faith, and gratitude.

Born on 4 June 1945, Kragha faced early adversity. Her childhood was marked by multiple relocations following the death of her parents. Despite the instability, she credited her long life and strength to divine guidance rather than personal effort.

The birthday celebration, planned by her children, came as a surprise. Though initially expecting a quiet church service, she was visibly moved by the turnout of friends, family, and former mentees. Many of those she had mentored as young people sent her voice notes and messages from around the world to mark the occasion.

Now a grandmother and matriarch, Kragha used the occasion to reflect on how much has changed over the decades.

She recalled that life expectancy in Nigeria during her youth was in the early 40s. Reaching 80, she said, is not something she takes lightly.

Her message was simple: resilience, anchored in faith, can carry people through life’s toughest moments.

She urged younger Nigerians to be grateful for each day, remain hopeful despite the country’s challenges, and trust in God’s ability to transform their circumstances.

Though the evening included moments of humour and light dancing, Kragha’s tone was mostly reflective. She acknowledged her physical limitations at 80 but expressed joy at seeing the fruits of a life built on service, mentorship, and perseverance.

Notable faces at the event were former Group Managing Director of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, founder of Rainoil, Dr. Gabriel Ogbechie, former presidential aspirant on the platform of Peoples Democratic Party, Dr. Sam Ohuabunwa, Mr Sonny Akporokiyamo Ekedayen, Delta State’s Commissioner for Economic Planning, Chairman of Versa-Tech Nigeria Ltd, James Orife among others.