THREE NIGERIANS HONOURED FOR THEIR OUTSTANDING SUPPORT FOR THE WORK OF THE CHURCH
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Abuja, 29 Nov. 2005 – The Anglican diocese of Abuja on Saturday, 26 November 2005 marked its 16th anniversary in a glorious Eucharist where three prominent Nigerians were honoured for their generous and selfless support to the Church ministry.
Former Nigerian Head-of-State, Chief Ernest Shonekan, Governor of Rivers State, Dr. Peter Odili and former Minister of Defence, Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (rtd) were the recipients of the awards. Chief Shonekan who chaired the visionary process which produced the Church of Nigeria Vision in the year 2000, has continued to provide consistent and valuable support for the church. Governor Odili is noted for his generous support and empathy for God’s people while Gen. Danjuma on his part has severally identified with Non-governmental Organisations whose programmes are geared towards assisting the down-trodden in the society and he has not relented in contributing to the work of the church.
The Primate of all Nigeria, Most Rev. Peter J. Akinola also at the same occasion celebrated his 16th year of episcopacy. Being the pioneer Bishop of the diocese, he has equally climbed the ladder of church leadership since he was consecrated Bishop 16 years ago to his present office now as the incumbent President of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Chairman, Council of Anglican Provinces of Africa (CAPA) as well as the Chair, Global South Anglicans.
In his sermon, the Archbishop of Ibadan Province, Most Revd Joseph Akinfenwa enjoined both political and religious leaders to provide good, honest and transparent leadership to their followers. He advised leaders who have little or nothing to show for their elected positions to honourably bow out as soon as their tenure expires. Quoting from Zech. 3:6, the cleric said that Archbishop Akinola has made a laudable and indelible mark in the church history today because he depended not on his ‘might’, nor his ‘power’ but on the Spirit of the Almighty God.
Many people from different walks of life were present in the service which also attracted dignitaries and Government officials like Chief Uffot Ekaette, the Secretary to the Federal Government of Nigeria who represented the President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and Mrs. Oby Ezekwesili, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development.
