I first met Ellis, fondly known as Uncle Nii Anku, in September 2004 during a visit to London. My wife, then a close friend, was also visiting and staying with her uncle, Ellis. The excitement of reconnecting with my friend led to an unexpected but cherished opportunity to meet one of her favourite uncles that very day. From the moment we met, Ellis exuded warmth and sincerity. He was deeply welcoming, creating an atmosphere of comfort and familiarity. His protective nature towards his family was immediately clear, showing the strong bonds he nurtured with his loved ones. One of my most memorable experiences with Uncle Nii Anku was actually on the very first day I met him. That day, I had taken my friend on a tour of central London, eager to explore the city together. However, due to rush hour traffic, we returned to north London later than expected. When we arrived at his residence, I quickly realised that Uncle Nii Anku was a man who did not take his family’s wellbeing lightly. His direct and intense conversation with me that evening about bringing his niece home late was nothing short of commanding. His words were firm, his tone unwavering, and his concern unmistakable. In that moment, it became abundantly clear — this was a no-nonsense uncle who took his role as protector seriously. That conversation was heated, intense, and undeniably intimidating, leaving a lasting impression on me from the very start. Uncle Nii Anku has always been a straight shooter, never one to sugarcoat reality. But what truly makes him special is how he can take the most ordinary day-to-day issues and present them with such blunt honesty that you can’t help but laugh. His words carry wisdom, yet his delivery often turns even simple observations into something unexpectedly hilarious. Whether it’s his sharp take on social dynamics, colourful descriptions of routine events, or his ability to cut through nonsense with striking clarity, he makes everyday conversations feel like a masterclass in wit and humour. His presence guarantees no moment is ever dull, and his unique I first met Ellis sometime in 2008 when Selorm introduced him to me, and from that very moment, his determination stood out. There was something about the way he spoke — focused, driven, and confident. I remember thinking to myself, “This one was meant for Finney Hospital.” Over the years, we’ve shared so many moments, but one that stands out was our little detective mission. We suspected that one of our permanent nurses was also working shifts at Korle Bu. Without enough evidence to act, Ellis and I decided to conduct a discreet stakeout. From about 4 p.m., we positioned ourselves near Korle Bu, waiting patiently. Finally, around 8 or 9 p.m., there she was, reporting for her shift. That confirmation was all we needed, and the next day, we took action. It was a strange mix of serious business and adventure — and it’s still one of my favourite memories with him. One of Ellis’s quirks that never fails to make me smile is how, even in the middle of a serious conversation, he’ll throw in a funny, totally unrelated comment that has everyone way of expressing himself still brings a smile to my face every time I think of him. If I had to use one word to sum up our bond, it would be “fairness.” Ellis embodies fairness not just as an ideal, but as a way of life. His objectivity and impartiality aren’t just qualities he holds — they’re principles he actively teaches, using his own life experience to show why fairness leads to happiness for all. His wisdom is practical, not theoretical, making every conversation with him feel like a lesson in integrity and balance. Uncle Nii Anku, reaching the sixth floor is no small feat; most would take the elevator to avoid the climb. But you, with determination and wisdom, have walked each step, ascending with purpose. Every step has lifted you to greater heights of knowledge, understanding, and insight. May this milestone be marked by abundance — pressed down, shaken together, and running over — in health, finances, long life, and fulfilment. Happy Birthday! Kofi Captain Barning 30 The Birthday Journal D E D I C AT E D
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