The announcement was made in a statement issued by the Diocese’s Communicator, Revd. Canon Akinwande Okelola, who described the Archbishop’s retirement as the end of a remarkable ministry defined by evangelism, church growth, clergy development and infrastructural expansion.

Borokini was ordained priest in 1982 after studying at Immanuel College of Theology, Ibadan. Over the years, he served in several key positions, including Statutory Canon of the Cathedral Church of St. Stephen’s, Oke Aluko, Ondo; lecturer and Registrar at Archbishop Vining College of Theology, Akure; and Registrar of Bishop Awosika College of Theology, Ondo.

In 2008, he was installed as the third Provost of the Cathedral Church of St. David’s, Akure, before being elected and consecrated as the third Bishop of Akure Diocese in 2013. He was later elevated as the fourth Archbishop of the Ecclesiastical Province of Ondo.

During his episcopacy, Borokini focused on evangelism and missionary expansion, establishing new congregations and creating additional archdeaconries to strengthen pastoral care and church administration across the Diocese.

According to the statement, the Diocese has lined up several activities to celebrate his retirement. These include the Second Session of the Fifteenth Diocesan Synod, a Synod Thanksgiving and Valedictory Service, the public presentation of a commemorative book in his honour, a valedictory visit to the Governor of Ondo State, his 70th Birthday Thanksgiving Service and a grand Retirement Thanksgiving Service.

The Archbishop also embarked on farewell visits to all the archdeaconries in the Diocese, where clergy and laity paid tribute to his years of dedicated leadership, describing his ministry as one marked by faithfulness, wisdom, compassion and selfless service.

Beyond spiritual leadership, Borokini oversaw several developmental projects, including the construction of a diocesan hospital, a sachet water production factory, a modern Bishop’s Office complex and guest house facilities, all aimed at strengthening the Church’s mission and community outreach.

His wife, Mrs. Olufunke Borokini, popularly known as “Mama Akure,” also made significant contributions during her 13-year tenure as President of the Diocesan Women’s Organisation. Under her leadership, the organisation established a retreat and conference centre, introduced an interest-free loan scheme for women, organised spiritual programmes for clergy wives and awarded scholarships to children of deceased clergy.

Archbishop Borokini is expected to officially retire on July 15, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of spiritual growth, institutional development and strengthened ministry within the Diocese of Akure and the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion).

The historic Trinity ordination service was held today at the Cathedral Church of the Advent in Life Camp, Gwarinpa, Abuja.

Of the fourteen newly ordained priests, twelve will serve in the Church of Nigeria’s foreign mission fields across Europe and Francophone countries, underscoring the Church’s continued commitment to global evangelism and missionary expansion.

Delivering the sermon at the bilingual service—conducted in both English and French—the Rt. Reverend Dr. Manasses C. Okere, Bishop of the Diocese of Ukwa, reminded the ordinands and the congregation that Jesus Christ chose them to go out, bear fruit, and ensure that their fruit abides.

Preaching from John 15:16, Bishop Okere urged the newly ordained ministers to submit wholly to God, remain faithful in service, and set themselves apart for the Lord, who chooses, commissions, and sends His disciples to proclaim the gospel of salvation.

The newly ordained deacons and priests will bolster the Church’s mission to expand evangelism, intentional discipleship, and ministry development both locally and internationally.

The Newly Ordained Deacons are:

• Reverend Celestine Uzoma
• Reverend Christian Unegbu
• Reverend Peter Peter Barau Sule
• Reverend Monday Omotugba
• Reverend Uchenna Igboamalu
• Reverend Charles Emerenini
• Reverend Godwin Asev Ikyureke
• Reverend Clement Amarachukwu
• Reverend Obumneme Igwemba
• Reverend Achissan Agoh
• 
  As the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) continues to expand the frontiers of mission and the vision of the Reign of God through evangelism, intentional discipleship and equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, Primate Henry Ndukuba also ordained fourteen priests to serve within Nigeria and across European and Francophone mission outreaches of the Church.
  The Ordained Priests are:
• Reverend Chinenye Azubuike
• Reverend Chidubem Ezenwafor
• Reverend Tochukwu Enetanya
• Reverend Nnamdi Okoli
• Reverend Israel Adamolekun
• Reverend Bimkagni Bombonadje
• Reverend Donatien Egunjobi
• Reverend Yedo Christian Lath
• Reverend Oluwaseun Matanmi
• Reverend Kenneth Orabueze
• Reverend Goodidea Sunday
• Reverend Essossinam Tchalimwissa
• Reverend Matthew Adewale
• Reverend Emmanuel Joseph

The ordination service was attended by several high-ranking church dignitaries, including the Most Rev. Dr. Nicholas D. Okoh, retired Primate of the Church of Nigeria; the Most Rev. B. C. I. Okoro, retired Bishop of the Orlu Diocese; and numerous retired clergy from the Diocese of Abuja.

Assisting the Primate were the Rt. Rev. Praises Omole-Ekun, the Rt. Rev. Ishaya Baba, the Rt. Rev. Titus Alkali, and the Rt. Rev. Dr. Paul Dajur, alongside supervising priests and clergymen of the Abuja Diocese.

The Venerable Dr. Olusegun Akinola, Canon Ministerial of the Cathedral presented the deacons while the priests were presented by the Venerable Oliver Ofoegbu, Canon Missioner and Director of Mission of the Church of Nigeria. The legal team of the Diocese was led by the Registrar, Mrs Kehinde Ajoni.

Following an impactful weekend of Men’s convention at the Cathedral, the service also featured the induction of men into the Christian Men’s Fellowship (CMF) and the inauguration of the newly elected executive officers for the CMF Abuja Diocese chapter. The ceremony was performed by Primate Ndukuba in his capacity as the Bishop of Abuja.

The Cathedral was filled to capacity with worshippers, clergy, family members, and well-wishers. The Diocesan Choir led the congregation in inspiring hymns, psalms, canticles, and anthems, creating an atmosphere of heartfelt worship. In one voice, the congregation proclaimed:

“Yours, Lord, is the greatness, the power, the glory, the splendour, and the majesty.”

This ordination marks another significant milestone in the Church of Nigeria’s ongoing mission to raise faithful ministers for the harvest field, both at home and abroad.

By Ayodele Orekoya
For ACNN TV,
Edited by Korede Akintunde

Ndukuba made the call on Thursday while declaring open the three-day 6th Abuja Christian Men’s Fellowship Convention at the Cathedral Church of the Advent, Life Camp, Gwarinpa, Abuja.

The convention, which began with a solemn Eucharistic Service, is themed “A Man Who Walks in Obedience,” drawn from Genesis 22:1-19, the biblical account of Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son Isaac in obedience to God’s command.

Addressing , church leaders and delegates gathered from across the Federal Capital Territory the Primate said the life of Abraham remained one of the clearest examples of absolute faith and obedience to God despite difficult circumstances.

According to him, Abraham’s willingness to surrender what was most precious to him demonstrated a level of trust that ultimately attracted divine favour and blessings that extended beyond his lifetime.

“Before God’s covenant blessings became evident in Abraham’s life, he was looking to his beloved son as the hope of his future and legacy,” Ndukuba said.

“Yet when God asked him to sacrifice that priceless gift, Abraham obeyed without reservation. Because of that obedience, he became a channel of blessing to generations.”

The Primate noted that Abraham occupied a unique position in religious history, serving as a revered figure not only among Christians but also among adherents of Judaism and Islam.

He said the patriarch’s experience illustrated a timeless lesson for believers-that trials and challenges were inevitable components of life, but can become opportunities for spiritual growth when approached with faith and obedience.

“Trials are part of our earthly journey,” he said. “God often uses them to test and strengthen our faith. What Abraham experienced brought out the very best in him because he chose obedience over fear and faith over doubt.”

Drawing practical lessons from the biblical narrative, Ndukuba told participants that many of life’s difficulties should not be viewed as barriers to progress.

Rather, he said, obstacles could become stepping stones to greater achievements when individuals remain attentive to God’s direction.

He acknowledged the economic difficulties confronting many families and communities, including rising costs of living and growing uncertainty, but encouraged Christians not to lose hope.

“Many people today face hardship and scarcity,” he said. “Yet when we hold firmly to faith and obedience, God remains faithful to provide for our needs. Throughout history, God has consistently used men such as Abraham and Noah to demonstrate that faithfulness and obedience attract blessings that extend to future generations.”

The Primate also warned against allowing distractions to weaken one’s spiritual commitment, urging Christian men to remain focused on God’s voice amid the growing noise and pressures of modern society.

He outlined three essential principles for a life of faithful discipleship.

First, he urged believers to cultivate the habit of listening attentively to God and resisting influences that could divert them from His purpose.

Second, he stressed the importance of consistency in one’s walk with God, encouraging participants to maintain regular prayer lives and family altars.

“Consistency is vital,” he said. “Build your altar and remain steadfast in prayer every day.”

Third, he challenged Christian men to make obedience the cornerstone of their relationship with God, citing Abraham as a model worthy of emulation.

“Let Abraham be your case study,” he said. “Do not allow disobedience to rob you of the blessings God has prepared for you.”

The convention continues through the weekend with Bible teachings, leadership sessions, fellowship activities and prayers focused on strengthening men for effective Christian leadership within their families, churches and society.

Organisers said the gathering seeks to inspire men to live lives marked by faith, integrity, discipline and obedience, particularly at a time when many families and communities are facing significant social, economic and moral challenges.

For many participants, the opening message set the tone for what is expected to be a period of spiritual renewal and reflection on the role of Christian men as leaders, providers and examples of godly living in an increasingly complex world.

Bshop Asilutwa of the Diocese of Maseno North, Anglican Church of Kenya, gave the admonition on Sunday, June 14, 2026, during a homily he delivered at the closing service of the Second Session of the 33rd Synod of the Diocese on the Niger, held at St. Peter’s Anglican Church, Nkpor.

Speaking on the Synod theme, “The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom,” the guest preacher encouraged Christians to diligently seek God through prayer and unwavering faith.
Drawing from Christ’s teaching, he reminded the congregation that those who ask receive, those who seek find, and those who knock will have doors opened unto them, stressing that God’s grace remains available even in difficult times for those who trust in Him.

According to the cleric, the fear of God is the foundation of true wisdom and an indispensable virtue for every Christian.
“Wisdom begins with faith in God. We must therefore submit our entire being to Him. As empty vessels, we should allow God to fill us. In whatever we do, let us put God first. We are truly wise only when we fear the Lord,” he said.
He further described wisdom as the proper application of knowledge for the glory of God, emphasizing that genuine wisdom cannot be separated from reverence for God.

The four-day Synod featured Bible expositions, prayer sessions, Bible studies, musical renditions by the New Covenant Archdeaconry Choir, and the ceremonial cutting of the Synod cake.
In his vote of thanks, the host Bishop, the Rt. Rev. Dr. Owen Nwokolo, expressed appreciation to guests for what he described as their love, patience, and resilience in remaining with parishioners throughout the Synod.

He particularly thanked Bishop Asilutwa and his wife for travelling from Kenya to attend the event and commended the diocesan clergy, workers, and congregations for contributing to the success of the gathering.
Bishop Nwokolo also paid special tribute to the host Archdeaconry and St. Peter’s Anglican Church, Nkpor, for successfully hosting the Synod.
More than 12,000 members of the Diocese, in addition to hundreds of friends and well-wishers from Anambra State and beyond, attended the four-day spiritual summit.

The position was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the second session of the Diocese’s Seventh Synod held at Immanuel Anglican Church, Umunankwo, in Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State.

The communiqué was signed by the President of the Synod and Bishop of the Diocese, Most Rev. Prosper Amah, and the Clerical Synod Secretary, Ven. Edozie Onwunyi.

According to the church, the growing culture of politicians switching allegiance from one political party to another weakens democratic institutions, undermines good governance and reduces public confidence in the political process.

The synod called on political leaders and relevant stakeholders to support electoral reforms, strengthen anti-defection laws and promote ideology-driven politics to safeguard Nigeria’s democracy.

It also urged political parties to uphold internal democracy and encouraged increased voter education and moral reorientation among political leaders to restore trust in governance.

Beyond politics, the synod appealed to governments at all levels to intensify efforts towards combating malaria, describing the disease as a major public health concern that requires sustained intervention.

The church further raised concerns about the implementation of constituency projects, noting that many projects intended to bring development closer to the people are often abandoned, poorly executed or affected by corruption and lack of transparency.

It therefore encouraged citizens to actively monitor projects in their communities, engage elected representatives and demand accountability in the execution of constituency projects.

The synod commended the leadership of the diocese for its contributions to evangelism, education, healthcare delivery and human capital development across communities.

It also praised Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, for efforts aimed at improving security and protecting lives and property in the state.

However, the church urged the state government to sustain youth empowerment and job creation initiatives while also calling for urgent attention to the rehabilitation of the Atani-Ogwuikpele Road.

The event was held at the OSDPC Multi-Purpose Event Centre, First Gate, Ijapo Estate, Akure, Ondo State, on Sunday, May 31, 2026, and attracted several dignitaries from different sectors.

Among those present were Justice Olasehinde Kumuyi, former Chief Judge of Ondo State; Chief (Mrs.) Kosemani Kolawole, former and only female Head of Service in the state; the Oba of Upenmen of Owo; and other notable personalities.

The award was presented in recognition of Bishop Fagbemi’s administrative competence, exemplary episcopal leadership, and consistent contributions to community and societal development. He was described as a leader whose influence spans faith, education, peacebuilding, and humanitarian service.

In his welcome address, the Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Democrat News Magazine, John Alaba Aliu, said the honour was reserved for individuals whose lives continue to inspire development and hope in society.

According to him, “The Rt. Revd. Dr. Stephen Ayodeji Fagbemi is a shining symbol of godly inspiration and development. He has consistently used his administrative and episcopal authority for the advancement of humanity. In every office he has occupied, his impact has been nothing short of phenomenal. He represents leadership with conscience, service with compassion, and influence with divine responsibility.”

The event also featured a public lecture themed “National Peacebuilding as a Strategic Tool for Development and Democratic Stability in Nigeria,” delivered by Mr. James Adekunle of the National Orientation Agency. He emphasized the importance of peacebuilding as a foundation for national development and democratic stability.

He noted that “there can be no sustainable development without peace and no enduring democracy without institutional stability,” while calling for dialogue, justice, and youth empowerment as tools for national progress.

In his acceptance speech, Bishop Fagbemi expressed gratitude for the recognition, describing it as unexpected and humbling.

He said, “Service to humanity must be rightly predicated on the understanding that whatever we are is what God has made of us, and in serving God, we must be available to serve His creation.”

He further encouraged youths to embrace integrity, diligence, and selfless service, while lamenting the increasing monetisation of voluntary service in society.

“We need to encourage the upcoming generation that God rewards when least expected and that nothing goes without a record before God,” he added.

The bishop dedicated the award to God, his family, the Diocese of Owo, the Anglican Communion, his community of Oba-Ile, and his wife, Mrs. Florence Ebunoluwa Fagbemi.

The ceremony concluded with renewed calls for peacebuilding and community development, as guests described the award as a recognition of a life dedicated to service, humility, and leadership excellence.

He made the call while delivering his Presidential Address at the First Session of the 13th Synod of the Abuja Diocese held at St. James Anglican Church, Asokoro, Abuja.

Speaking on the theme, “The Priesthood of All Believers: Equipping God’s People for the Work of Ministry,” the Primate challenged church leaders to examine their spiritual lives and return to authentic worship marked by repentance and a deliberate rejection of sinful practices.

According to him, God values obedience above religious rituals and outward expressions of faith.

“The God we serve desires obedience more than sacrifice, religious observances, or activities,” he said.

He warned that outward religious devotion without genuine commitment to God amounts to spiritual hypocrisy, noting that worship must be rooted in sincerity and truth.

Referencing the words of the prophet Isaiah, he stressed that true worship involves both external devotion and inward transformation.

“These people draw near to Me with their mouth and honour Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me,” he said.

The Anglican Primate further reminded clergy that Christian worship must be guided by truth and the leading of the Holy Spirit.

“God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and in truth,” he stated.

Drawing a distinction between life in the Spirit and life controlled by worldly desires, Ndukuba noted that believers are called to reflect the character of Christ through their conduct and leadership.

He cited Galatians 5:19–21 while warning against behaviours associated with the flesh, describing them as inconsistent with Christian leadership and discipleship.

In contrast, he identified love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control as evidence of a transformed life.

“These are the character of Christ and the mark of belonging to Him,” he said.

The Primate also urged the Church to focus less on positions and titles and more on service and purpose.

According to him, ministry should be driven by the effective use of spiritual gifts for the growth of the Church and the advancement of the Gospel.

“We must move from emphasis on offices we occupy in the Church to function and service within the Church,” he said.

“Every gift, talent and ministry must be seen as an opportunity to serve God and His people.”

The Synod continued with discussions on leadership, discipleship and the role of the Church in addressing contemporary moral and social challenges facing Nigeria.

Text: Luke 1:39-49

1:39  Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah, 

1:40  and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth. 

1:41 And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.

1:42   Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! 

1:43  But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?

1:44  But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?

1:45 Blessed is she who  believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.

1:46  And Mary said: “My soul  magnifies the Lord,

1:47 And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior.

1:48 For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed.

1:49 For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name.

STUDY:

Today we remember and celebrate the annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Annunciation reminds us of the announcement of the birth of Jesus Christ by the angel Gabriel to Mary, the mother of our Lord. Interestingly, Mary was not the only virgin in the land. Virginity was a God-commanded virtue in Israel (Deut. 22:23&24). In other words, it was not virginity that qualified Mary for the honour of being the mother of our Lord. Angel Gabriel stated clearly, “For you have found favour with God” (v.32).

So, it was not human qualifications but Divine favour.
Beloved, while it is a great thing for you to work hard and be resilient, you need Divine favour. God’s favour brings to a man what his strength cannot fetch. When God shines His light of favour upon you, everyone around you will be lost in wonder. What is termed impossible in your life could be made possible by the reason of God’s favour. God has promised that He would arise and have mercy upon you because the set time to favour you has come (Psa. 102:13). As He favoured Mary, so shall He also favour you in all areas of life! You are God’s candidate for Divine favour.

Prayer: 

Father, let your favour rest upon me now and always, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

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Olanipekun made the remark on Wednesday in Ibadan while delivering a valedictory lecture titled, “From the Cross to the Crown: The Travails and Triumphs of Faith,” during activities marking the retirement and 70th birthday celebration of the Bishop of the Ibadan Diocese of the Anglican Communion, Most Rev. Dr Joseph Olatunji Akinfenwa, and his wife, Mrs Comfort Akinfenwa.

According to the senior lawyer, the Church must continue to endure its trials with faith, courage and conviction.

He described Bishop Akinfenwa, who is retiring after 26 years of service as bishop of the Ibadan Diocese, as an exceptional clergyman whose intellectual depth and humility distinguish him.

Olanipekun also praised the bishop’s wife, describing her as a strong pillar behind the success of his ministry and a devoted supporter of the gospel.

In his lecture, the legal luminary spoke extensively on the burden of faith, the trials of the early Church, the Nicene Creed, and the spiritual significance of perseverance in Christianity.

He also reflected on the evolution of the Anglican Communion in Nigeria, noting that the Church has grown into a global ecclesiastical body with shared doctrines and heritage.

Despite the progress recorded, Olanipekun said the Church in Nigeria is still striving toward becoming a better version of itself.

“As we celebrate Bishop Akinfenwa, we still behold a Church that is negotiating and yearning for its own better self,” he stated.

Speaking on the bishop’s legacy, Olanipekun said Akinfenwa carried the burden of ministry with unwavering faith and dedication.

“He passed through the travails of life and his calling unperturbed through his unalloyed faith in the Lord, and his robe remains clean, without stain,” he added.

Also speaking at the event, Justice of the Supreme Court and Chancellor of the Ibadan Diocese of the Anglican Communion, Justice Helen Ogunwumiju, described the lecture as a call for spiritual and moral rebirth within society.

According to her, Christianity teaches that glory often comes through suffering and perseverance.

“Christianity is the only faith and tradition where suffering is not seen as a tragedy, but as the way to salvation,” she said.

Justice Ogunwumiju also highlighted the achievements of Bishop Akinfenwa during his years of service, including the establishment of new archdeaconries, mission fields, churches, youth programmes, scholarship initiatives and a primary healthcare centre.

She described his stewardship as one marked by courage, commitment and service to humanity.

Responding, the retiring bishop thanked the organisers, family members and well-wishers for honouring him.

Bishop Akinfenwa described the lecture delivered by Olanipekun as spiritually and intellectually enriching, adding that the Christian faith requires dedication, compassion and continuous service to God.

He noted that ministry is not a solitary journey and acknowledged the support of many individuals throughout his 26 years as bishop.

The bishop also expressed appreciation to the people of Ibadan, describing the city as rich in history, faith and resilience.

Bishop Akinfenwa was ordained priest in 1986 in Kaduna, became Bishop of Sokoto in 1998, and was later transferred to the Ibadan Diocese in 2000 before emerging Archbishop of the Ibadan Ecclesiastical Province in 2003.

Tribune

Aladekugbe made the call while delivering his presidential address at the First Session of the 10th Synod of the Diocese of Ibadan North themed, “Cast Your Bread Upon the Waters.”

According to the Archbishop, active involvement in politics would give Christians the opportunity to promote righteousness, justice and the overall well-being of society.

He stated that while Christians may participate in politics, their ultimate loyalty should remain with Jesus Christ rather than any political party.

Aladekugbe noted that the scriptures encourage believers to support truth, respect constituted authority and participate responsibly in governance while recognising that true hope lies in God and not in human institutions.

He lamented what he described as the low level of political participation among Christians, saying their absence from the political space has not stopped politicians from making decisions that affect their lives.

“The lack of interest by Christians in politics does not stop politicians from deciding taxes, healthcare, safety, education, religious freedom or the future,” he said.

According to him, Christians have allowed religion to limit their political participation.

“Next to God’s power is political power. Political power is people-given, and we have the people. The seven executive members in the ward determine who governs us. As Christians, you must attend ward meetings to influence those who represent us,” he stated.

The Archbishop encouraged Christians to register as members of political parties at the ward level, remain active in the political process and be prepared to take up leadership responsibilities.

Speaking on insecurity, Aladekugbe expressed concern over persistent attacks in parts of the country, revealing that many communities have been deserted due to violence and insecurity.

He urged the Federal Government to take stronger action against terrorism, banditry and kidnapping instead of relying on rhetoric.

“The government should be able to confront terrorism, banditry and kidnapping headlong in order to end the continued shedding of innocent blood in our country,” he said.

While commending the efforts of security agencies, the cleric stressed the need for greater sincerity and commitment from the government in tackling insecurity.

Aladekugbe also praised Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, describing him as one of the most people-oriented governors since the return of democracy in 1999.

According to him, Makinde’s policies have positively impacted residents and indigenes of the state because of his willingness to listen to the people and implement policies that address their needs.

The Synod was attended by serving and retired bishops, clergy members, legal practitioners, traditional rulers, church leaders and other invited guests.