In a remarkable testament to God’s providence and the rich heritage of Anglican leadership, the year 2024 witnessed an extraordinary moment in the history of the Nigerian Armed Forces. For the first time, the Directors of the Protestant Chaplaincies of the Nigerian Army, Navy, and Air Force are all Anglican priests, a divine arrangement that has inspired both the Church and the nation.
The esteemed officers—Lt. Col. (Ven.) T.E. Ogbonyomi, Director Chaplain Services (Protestant), Nigerian Army; Lt. Cdr. (Rev.) J. Elises, Director Protestant, Chief Chaplain of the Nigerian Navy; and Gp. Capt. (Ven. Dr.) P.D. Otowo, Director Chaplaincy (Protestant), Nigerian Air Force— in November paid a courtesy visit to the Primate of All Nigeria, the Most Rev’d Dr Henry C. Ndukuba, at the Episcopal House in Abuja.
During the visit, the Primate congratulated the chaplains on their appointments, emphasising the unique opportunity they have to serve both God and their nation. He encouraged them to remain steadfast in their faith, diligent in their responsibilities, and committed to the trust placed in them by their superiors. Reflecting on their leadership roles, the Primate charged them to uphold the Anglican tradition of integrity, service, and spiritual excellence.
“Yours is not merely a position of authority but of divine stewardship,” the Primate said. “As Anglican priests in these pivotal roles, you carry the light of Christ to those who defend our nation. Ensure that you keep the trust and confidence reposed in you by those who appointed you and continue to rely on God’s grace as you lead.”
The visit was also a moment of celebration for the Anglican Church, affirming the Church’s legacy of producing leaders of spiritual depth and moral integrity. The simultaneous appointments of three Anglican priests to these top positions underscore the significant contributions of the Church to national development and the Nigerian Armed Forces.
As the Directors returned to their respective postings, they expressed gratitude for the Primate’s guidance and reiterated their commitment to the tasks ahead. They pledged to foster spiritual growth, pastoral care, and ethical leadership within the Armed Forces, ensuring that their ministries reflect the core values of the Anglican faith.
To God be the glory for this remarkable moment in the history of the Anglican Church in Nigeria and for His divine arrangement that has placed faithful leaders in positions to serve both the Church and the nation with excellence.
