Public affairs commentator and rights activist Deji Adeyanju has congratulated Niger Delta environmental advocate and businessman Matthew Tonlagha as he turns 50, describing the milestone as a reflection of years of professional and civic engagement.

In a statement issued on the occasion, Adeyanju said Tonlagha’s career in business and advocacy highlighted the impact of private sector leadership in Nigeria’s oil-producing region. He noted that the businessman’s work in the energy and security sectors had contributed to job creation and increased local participation in strategic industries.

Tonlagha is chairman of Maton Engineering Nigeria Limited and Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, firms involved in engineering services and pipeline surveillance operations. Adeyanju said the companies’ activities under Tonlagha’s leadership had supported economic activity and employment in the Niger Delta.

He also referenced Tonlagha’s long-standing involvement in environmental advocacy, particularly around sustainable development and community engagement in oil-producing areas. According to Adeyanju, investments in education, healthcare and local development initiatives have formed part of the businessman’s broader contribution to the region.

Adeyanju extended goodwill to Tonlagha’s family and associates, expressing hope that the new decade would bring continued health and further opportunities for public and private sector impact.

Recall that Tonlagha, a renowned civil engineer, recently marked his birthday with notable Nigerians, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, extending warm birthday tributes to the business leader from the Niger Delta.