The leadership of the Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion, Most Revd Henry Ndukuba, is entering the sixth year of his decade-long primacy, with a big Thank You to the Almighty God.
In an emotional Vote of Thanks delivered at the conclusion of the Eucharist Service celebrating the Fifth Anniversary of his Presentation and Enthronement as the Archbishop Metropolitan and Primate of all Nigeria, His Grace Ndukuba expressed, “This is the day the Lord has made, and we are rejoicing in it. We give Him all praise, glory, and thanksgiving. We express our gratitude for His faithfulness in leading us over the past five years as we step into our sixth year.”
Reflecting on the past, he affirmed, “As we look back over these five years, we are confident that it has been God who has been our constant support. Indeed, this battle is not for the strong, nor is the race for the swift. We have learned that the more we lean on God, the more we witness His support, and we must continuously express our gratitude.”
“We feel the prayers of the saints, and it is only through God’s grace that we are here. It is not by power or might, nor by human wisdom, but by faith and the help of the Holy Spirit. We will continue to seek your prayers, trusting that by God’s grace, His will shall prevail. We are determined to follow Him, no matter how challenging the journey may be. With your prayers and our collective efforts, we believe that God’s will shall be accomplished, and the Church will be blessed.”
In part of his impromptu speech, he warmly welcomed everyone attending the service, saying, “We want to thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedules to worship with us. Your presence means a lot.”
He acknowledged and appreciated several dignitaries, including his immediate predecessor his Grace, The Most Revd Dr. Nicholas Okoh and his wife, Nkasiobi, expressing gratitude for their continuous support. He also recognized his wife Mama Nigeria, Mama Angela Ndukuba, and the following bishops for their attendance and contributions:
– The Most Revd. and Mama Daniel Isa, Archbishop of Lokoja Province and Bishop of Minna Diocese
– The Right Revd. Moses Tabwaye, Bishop of Gwagwalada
– The Right Revd. Festus Nwafili, Bishop of Ndokwa
– The Right Revd. Aloysius Agbo, Bishop of Nsukka
– The Right Revd. and Mama Robinson, Bishop of Lafia
– The Most Revd. Friday Imekhai (rtd) and his wife.
He also expressed gratitude to His Excellency, . Emeka Ihedioha, former governor of Imo State, and his wife, Mrs. Ebere Ihedioha. Additionally, he acknowledged the contributions of Venerable Dr. Gershinen Paul Dajur, Secretary of the Church of Nigeria, and Mrs. Kehinde Ajoni, Registrar of the Diocese of Abuja and the Church of Nigeria.
“We appreciate the members of the Diocesan Board, leaders, elders, and PCC members in our churches for making the effort to be here. God bless you all in the name of Jesus. We extend our gratitude to all clergy and their wives, our pastors, and the diocesan choir for their sacrifices. We also thank the Guild of Stewards of the Diocese of Abuja, the media, and security personnel, especially ACNN, for being here to celebrate with us.”
Primate Ndukuba concluded by expressing profound appreciation to all archbishops and bishops of the Church of Nigeria for their unwavering support, prayers, and collaborative efforts over the past five years. “As we look forward to the next five years, we trust that God will perfect His purpose for His Church, and glory and honor shall be ascribed unto Him.”
He reiterated his gratitude to the officials of the Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion and all delegates to the Standing Committee and in particular commending the contributions of those working at St. Matthias Secretariat. “We thank God for your dedication and sacrifices. May the Lord do great and mighty things in our lives and ministries as we move forward together.”
In closing, he proclaimed, “At such a time as this, what can we say but to give all honor, glory, thanksgiving, and praise to the God of gods and Lord of lords, who is indeed our hope, help, and hiding place. As we look to Him in the days ahead, may His name be glorified and may His Church continue to grow from strength to strength. Thank you all for being here. God bless you!”
