By JOY AKANU

Fans and colleagues of veteran Nollywood actor and lawmaker, Desmond Elliot, have celebrated him as he marks his 51st birthday on Wednesday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the ace actor had earlier made a post on Instagram announcing his birthday.

He said: “Today, I celebrate my 51st birthday with a heart full of gratitude and reflection.

“As I embrace this new year of life, I want to take a moment to honor the memories of those we recently lost: Bukky Coker, Gbenga Adenowo, and Omolara Obatolu.

“In their memory, I dedicate this special day to them, praying for comfort and strength for their families during this difficult time.

“I am truly grateful for the gift of life and the love of my family and friends.

“Here’s to cherishing every moment and holding our loved ones even closer.

“Thank you, God, for the blessings in my life and for the memories that will always remain in our hearts. #BirthdayReflections #InMemory Gratitude #51AndThriving #Blessed #Joyinoverdrive.”

Following the post, his fans, well-wishers and industry colleagues have flooded social media with goodwill messages and prayers for the ace thespian.

Iam_osayandeogiemwonyi posted: “Happy birthday papa. May this new chapter be a new beginning of God’s innumerable blessings in your life.”

25billiondollars said: “This is so amazing, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU SIR. God bless you. We believe you wella. Our future president.”

Olori_Folaademi offered prayers for him,”Happy birthday Hon. DOE. Age with God’s unending grace and increase in all that you do.”

Odamttencharlotte said “Happy birthday my big boss. May God continue to bless you n give you more years. Enjoy to the day to max sir.”

Frankysage wrote “Happy Birthday Sir, Long Life and Prosperity, Good Health, More answers to your secret prayers, Wisdom, Knowledge, and Understanding of God, More Light of God Shine Upon Your Life in Jesus Mighty Name I Pray, AMEN.”

Also, some of the veteran actor’s colleagues in the motion picture industry offered glowing birthday wishes to him.

Ufuoma Mcdermott(ufuomamcdermott), said, “Happy birthday dearest. Blessings unending.”

Chioma Akpotha (chiomakpotha) wrote “Happy birthday Dessy.”

Iniedo said “Happiest birthday Des.”

Nancy Isime(nancyisimeofficial) “Happy Birthday Uncle Des.”

Ace comedian and actor (aycomedian) wrote,”Happy birthday brotherly.”

NAN reports that Desmond Elliot, born Feb. 4, 1974, in Lagos, began his career in television soap operas such as Everyday People, One Too Much and Saints and Sinners.

He later became one of Nollywood’s leading actors, appearing in over 200 films, including Men Who Cheat, Yahoo Millionaire and 30 Days in Atlanta.

The actor has received several major nominations, including African Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role in 2006 and multiple Best Actor nominations at the Nigeria Entertainment Awards.

Beyond filmmaking, Elliot ventured into politics in 2014 where he contested under the All-Progressives Congress and won the Surulere Constituency in the April 2015 Nigerian General Elections.

He is also known for his advocacy work, including involvement in initiatives aimed at addressing child illiteracy in Nigeria and across Africa. (NAN)

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