I’ve known Ellis all my life! He’s basically my second dad — the one who stepped up as my father figure when my real dad stepped down. A memorable experience was when my mum reported me to Uncle Ellis over a music video I featured in. As an African girl, you’d think I’d committed a federal crime. She expected him to drag me for filth and lecture me. When he called, I braced myself for disappointment... but nope. He just asked, “Did they at least pay you? Please tell me you made some good money!” I couldn’t hold the laughter! Then he said, “Next time you wanna be a video vixen, please pick a proper artist with real money — so you stop calling me for peanuts every time you’re broke!” My mum was furious, but I was thrilled. That’s when he gave me his iconic Ellis logic: “If you say you don’t want to go to school then Chale be the best at what you’re doing because you need to come build your house in Ghana ooo! Yooo!” This is classic Uncle Nii Anku — brutally honest, always hilarious, and still rooting for me in his own sideways way. Uncle Nii Anku is unserious in the best way. He turns every situation into a stand-up comedy show. Whether you’re crying, stressed, or just over it, he’ll find a way to make you laugh — even if it’s at yourself. Life’s already hard enough, and somehow he always reminds us not to take it too seriously. He’s like emotional pain relief… in human form. If I had to sum up my bond with Ellis in one word, it would be Atigbobo! What’s understood doesn’t need to be explained. But in all seriousness — Rooted. Because no matter how far life takes us — different countries, time zones, family madness — I always feel grounded when I talk to him. His wisdom, warmth, and humour are part of my foundation. Atigbobo, may your 60s be filled with the same joy, wit, and energy you’ve brought into all our lives. May your knees cooperate when the highlife hits, may your fridge never run out of chilled beer, and may you feel deeply loved because you are. Happy birthday, Atigbobo! Gracie Lamptey I’ve known Ellis since nursery school — so probably since we were about three years old. That’s a lifetime of friendship! I can’t remember my very first impression (it was that long ago), but for our friendship to have lasted all these years, it must have been a good one. One memory I truly treasure is when he sacrificed his time to oversee some work and painting in my house. That act of kindness really stayed with me. He’s not only a perfect gentleman but a true gem of a friend. What always gets me is how quick-witted he is — he’s literally humour personified. In all the years I’ve known him, I don’t think we’ve ever met without him making me laugh. If I had to choose one word to sum up our bond, it would be Generous. Wishing you more happiness, good health, and prosperity in abundance. I’m truly grateful for your friendship. Enjoy this special milestone to the max. God bless, bro. Florence The first time my siblings and I met Uncle Nii Anku was in the mid1990s when he visited us in St. Louis. But it wasn’t until I travelled to Ghana for a programme at Legon that I truly got to know him. He was the very first person to meet me at the airport and from then on, he made my stay unforgettable. He was always checking on me, making sure I was okay on campus, and on weekends, he’d whisk my colleague and me away from the dorms so we could relax at home. I’ll never forget the rides through Accra and down Spintex Road in his red car, ending at that flat right on the Tema coast. Whether we were out and about or just watching “Esmeralda” on TV, every weekend felt like home thanks to his kindness and humour. Years later, I had the joy of visiting him and the family in London, and again, the hospitality was top-tier. Uncle Nii Anku has always gone above and beyond to make sure everyone around him is comfortable and welcomed. For that, we are sincerely thankful. Funny trait? He used to insist that there were only six people in the whole world named Ellis! Birthday Wish: Uncle Nii Anku, on this special day, we wish you the happiest of birthdays. May God bless you richly — today and always. Wishing you endless joy, peace, and good health. Maame Aba Coleman 42 The Birthday Journal C O M PA S S I O N AT E
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