The occasion was commemorated with a solemn Holy Communion Service at the Cathedral Church of the Advent, Life-Camp, Gwarinpa, Abuja. The service, broadcast live on Advent Cable Network Nigeria (ACNN TV), drew an assembly of Bishops, senior clergy, political figures, and worshippers who gathered in thanksgiving and reflection.

Since his enthronement on March 25, 2020, at the height of the global COVID-19 pandemic, Primate Ndukuba’s leadership has been defined by a clear spiritual direction anchored on his vision: “The Decade of the Reign of God.” His tenure has emphasized spiritual renewal, doctrinal faithfulness, and national transformation.

Delivering the sermon, the Rt. Rev’d Dr. Duke Akamisoko, Bishop of Kubwa Diocese, spoke on the theme “Celebrating God’s Goodness,” drawing from Psalm 105:1–6 and Psalm 103:2. He urged the Church to remain grateful for God’s faithfulness, particularly highlighting divine preservation in the life and ministry of the Primate.

Bishop Akamisoko noted that the Primate’s “good health” and “journey mercies,” despite extensive pastoral travels, stand as visible testimonies of God’s sustaining grace. He commended the Primate’s steadfast commitment to advancing the vision of the Reign of God, especially his emphasis on strengthening the family as the bedrock of both Church and society.

The Bishop further praised the Primate’s firm leadership in navigating global ecclesiastical challenges, particularly his defense of orthodox Anglican doctrine in alignment with the GAFCON movement. According to him, the Primate has shown “courage, clarity, and conviction” in preserving the doctrinal integrity of the Church of Nigeria amidst shifting theological trends worldwide.

Highlighting tangible progress under the current leadership, Bishop Akamisoko pointed to the continued expansion of the Church through the creation of new dioceses, describing it as evidence of both spiritual vitality and effective administration.

He affirmed that the Primate’s tenure has been marked by integrity, purposeful leadership, and unwavering commitment to the Gospel, adding that “no Anglican will be ashamed” of the direction of the Church.
The thanksgiving service was attended by several notable dignitaries, Church leaders and Captains of Industry, including The Rt. Rev’d Paul Samuel Zamani (Bishop of Kwoi), The Rt. Rev’d Praise Omole-Ekun (Dean, St. Francis of Assisi Theological College, Wusasa, Zaria), The Rt. Rev’d Moses Bukpe Tabwaye (Bishop of Gwagwalada), The Rt. Rev’d Dr. Benjamin Idume (Bishop of Ozoro), The Rt. Rev’d Dr. Gershinen Paul Dajur (Bishop of the Missionary Diocese of Keffi), Prof. Jerry Gana, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, Chaplains of Nigeria Army, Navy, Airforce, Mrs Kehinde Ajoni (Registrar of the Church of Nigeria), Ven. Bar. Festus Opara (the General Secretary of the Church of Nigeria) among many others.

The anniversary service concluded with a vote of thanks, where the Primate expressed gratitude for the prayers of the saints and God’s sustaining grace throughout his primacy. “We return all glory to God for His faithfulness,” the Primate said.

As the Church reflected on six years of impactful leadership, the anniversary not only celebrated past milestones but also reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to advancing the vision of the Reign of God in Nigeria and beyond, with renewed faith, unity, and purpose.

Ven. Raphael A. Aderinwale
Director of Communications
Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion)
communication@anglican-nig.org

Addressing the Official Opening Ceremony of the Church of Nigeria Standing Committee holding at St. Stephen’s Church, Osumenyi, Anambra State, the Primate decried the serial cases of insecurity that have left lives and properties unsafe. He asserted that the “weaponization of religious and tribal identities” is a fundamental driver of the nation’s intractable violence.

“It is evident that the massacre of Christians and the destruction of local communities are done to advance the interest of political and religious entities,” the Primate stated. He further criticized leaders who deny the reality of these events, noting that such denials send dangerous signals to the international community.

Highlighting an “expansionist land-grabbing agenda” as central to the crisis, Primate Ndukuba expressed concern that the government appears incapable of containing the genocide. He concluded with a direct plea: “We appeal that the international community should come to our aid. After all, Nigeria has served in many international peacekeeping projects”, he added.

Speaking on the theme of the meeting which is holding at St. Stephen’s Anglican Church, Osumenyi, Anambra State, “Serve the Lord: Imperative for the Family under God” (Joshua 24:14-15), the Primate emphasized that serving God with all one’s heart is a non-negotiable requirement for spiritual fruitfulness. Drawing from Matthew 6:24, he warned against the dangers of “double-mindedness” in worship. “No one can serve two masters,” he declared. “You cannot serve God and mammon.”

The Primate also reaffirmed the Church’s stance on traditional biblical values, vowing to protect the sanctity of marriage. He reiterated the Church of Nigeria’s total rejection of same-sex marriage and other sexual perversions, noting that these issues were the catalyst for the birth of GAFCON (Global Anglican Future Conference), which remains committed to defending orthodox faith against revisionist doctrines.

In his closing remarks, the Primate praised the hospitality of the host Bishop, Rt. Rev’d Ephraim Okechukwu Ikeakor, and his wife, Dame Nkem Ikeakor, thanking the entire Amichi Diocese for ensuring a successful and spiritually uplifting gathering of God’s people.

Speaking at St. Stephen’s Church, Osumenyi, during the Official Opening Ceremony of the ongoing Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) Standing Committee meeting, the Governor while commending the Church for its efforts, emphasized that the Church should not leave the burden of governance and societal development to the government alone.

Governor Soludo warmly welcomed the Church of Nigeria delegates to Anambra State, providing firm assurances that the state is safe for the gathering. In a significant policy update, he informed the assembly that the “sit-at-home” order has been effectively abolished in Anambra State.

Sharing context on this development, the Governor revealed that following his inauguration, he visited Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Biafra movement, in the prison and had a conversation regarding violence and civil disobedience in the South East. He noted that Kanu condemned the acts of killing and the enforcement of sit-at-home orders. Governor Soludo described the sit-at-home phenomenon as a form of sabotage designed to cripple the economy of the South East and, by extension, Nigeria.

The Governor highly praised the Presidential address delivered by the Primate, the Most Rev’d Dr. Henry Ndukuba, describing it as “wonderful, thought-provoking, and inspirational”.

He similarly commended the host Bishop, Rt. Rev’d Ephraim Okechukwu Ikeakor, for a timely welcome address that addressed the pressing issues of the moment. He thanked the Bishop for his leadership and for the warm reception accorded to the state’s guests.

Speaking at the ongoing Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) Standing Committee meeting, holding at St. Stephen’s Anglican Church Osumenyi, Anambra State, Obi asserted that this role is imperative as the government is failing to ensure the welfare of the populace.

In a blunt assessment of the nation’s leadership, Obi identified politicians as the primary problem facing Nigeria. He held the government responsible for the widespread poverty currently “tearing the nation to shreds” and condemned the prevailing state of insecurity across the country.

Mr. Obi appealed to the Primate, Most Rev’d Dr. Henry Ndukuba, and the Church leadership to keep the nation in their intercessions, pleading, “Please do remember us in your prayers”.

Furthermore, he advocated for a stronger partnership where the government supports the Church’s developmental efforts financially. He argued that the government should “support the Church with money,” expressing confidence that the Church would use such resources more judiciously for the benefit of the people.

Delivering his Presidential Address at the Standing Committee Meeting of the Church of Nigeria, held at St Stephen’s Anglican Church, Osumenyi, in the Diocese of Amichi, Anambra State, the Primate painted a sombre portrait of a nation under siege from criminality, banditry and insurgency.

He expressed deep concern over what he termed a pattern of violence against vulnerable communities, lamenting what he described as official reluctance in some quarters to acknowledge the scale of the crisis.

In measured but firm language, Primate Ndukuba argued that when a government appears unable to competently contain widespread insecurity, appeals for international support become both moral and necessary. He urged the global community not to remain indifferent, stressing that lives were being lost and communities traumatised.

The Anglican leader referenced high-profile incidents that have shocked the nation, including mass abductions of worshippers in Kaduna State, kidnappings of schoolchildren and teachers in Niger State, and the killing of a cleric following his abduction alongside members of his family. He said such episodes were not isolated tragedies but part of a broader pattern of insecurity that leaves families and communities devastated.

“Nigeria is bleeding,” he declared, warning that denial or downplaying of violent incidents only deepens public mistrust and compounds national grief.

While acknowledging statements and gestures from foreign leaders who have publicly recognised Nigeria’s security challenges, he maintained that temporary responses were insufficient in the face of what he described as a sustained humanitarian and security crisis. He called for coordinated international engagement aimed at saving lives and stabilising affected regions.

The Primate also criticised what he characterised as political correctness and image management before the international community, arguing that such approaches amount to a disservice to citizens confronting daily fear and uncertainty.

In his most forceful remarks, he framed the violence as part of a wider ideological and territorial agenda, warning that unchecked bloodshed could carry grave moral and historical consequences for the nation.

Security analysts note that religious leaders in Nigeria have increasingly assumed advocacy roles amid persistent insecurity, often serving as the moral voice for communities struggling with displacement, trauma and economic disruption. However, government officials have consistently rejected claims of religiously targeted campaigns, maintaining that criminality and insurgency affect citizens across faiths and regions.

As debate continues over the character and drivers of Nigeria’s insecurity, Primate Ndukuba’s address adds to mounting pressure on federal authorities to deliver measurable improvements in safety and accountability.

For many worshippers gathered in Osumenyi, the address was more than ecclesiastical routine; it was a plea born of anguish, reflecting the fears of congregations across the country who seek reassurance that their lives and liberties remain protected.

The Primate, accompanied by his wife, Mrs Angela E Ndukuba, President of the Mothers’ Union (Mama Nigeria), and other distinguished clergy, offered prayers for the Vice-Chancellor’s successful tenure. In his remarks, Most Rev (Dr) Ndukuba drew parallels with the biblical Daniel, Shadrach, Meshack and Abednego, assuring the Vice-Chancellor that his trust in God, the fountain of knowledge and understanding, would ensure triumph.

The Archbishop further assured him of the church’s unwavering prayers for his success. The Primate emphasized the importance of collective effort in supporting the Vice-Chancellor’s mission to transform the University. In response, the Vice-Chancellor expressed gratitude to the Primate for his visit, reaffirming his trust in God. Prof Anyaehie attributed his life’s successes to God’s special grace and pledged to remain steadfast in his faith.

The Vice-Chancellor noted that all University discussions are grounded in Christian principles. Other notable members of the entourage included Bishop Ephraim Ikeakor; Bishop of Amichi, Venerable George Agum; Chaplain to the Primate, Most Rev Blessing C Eyindah; Dean and Archbishop of Niger-Delta Province, Ven Prof Anayo Nkamnebe, Prof Chinonso Achebe and Most Rev Dr Blessing Enyindah; Dean, Church of Nigeria.

In his welcome address, the Primate, the Most Revd Dr Henry C. Ndukuba, expressed great delight that the Governor had come to felicitate with the bishops. He described Governor Sanwo-Olu as a leader who rules with “the fear of God and purpose”, acknowledging his timeliness in attending to situations in the state, whether good or bad.

Drawing from 2 Samuel 23:3–4, the Primate stated that leadership is a sacred trust, noting that the Church is proud that the Governor has carried this mantle with integrity and a heart for the people. He also used the opportunity to commiserate with the state regarding the recent fire incident which destroyed a multiple story building and many other goods and human lives, praying for the restoration of all that was lost and condolences to the families of lives lost.

Reflecting on the historical significance of the venue, Primate Ndukuba noted that it was fitting for the retreat to return to Lagos, as it was here that the retreat began in December 2000 under the leadership of the then Primate, Archbishop Peter Jasper Akinola. He described that inaugural gathering as a period of “deep repentance, restoration, and healing”, where the concept of the “monarchical bishop” crumbled, giving way to the biblical idea of “diaconate episcopacy”. He concluded by expressing the Church’s gratitude for the consistent support received from the Governor.

While responding, Governor Sanwo-Olu called for stronger synergy between the Church and the State, asserting that while the government formulates policies, faith is essential to stabilise and strengthen them.

Commending the retreat’s theme, “Prepared and Useful to the Master”, he noted that in times of anxiety and confusion, true usefulness goes beyond mere visibility.

“Many may be prominent but not necessarily useful,” Sanwo-Olu remarked. Sharing his personal experience in governance, he noted that he witnesses the pain and expectations of the people daily and urged the Fathers of Faith to remain focused, as leadership is fundamentally about stewardship and accountability.

The Bishop of Lagos, the Rt. Rev’d Dr Ifedola Okupevi, while welcoming the Governor, described him as a “committed member of the Diocese of Lagos”. He praised the Governor’s dedication as a member of the Synod and the Guild of Stewards, as well as his strides in healthcare, infrastructure, and education.

The Governor was accompanied by the Chairman of Bariga Local Council Development Area, Hon. Bukola Adedeji, and the Special Adviser on Christian Religious Matters, the Very Revd Bukola Adeleke Adebiyi.

The Dean of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), the Most Revd Dr Blessing Enyindah, offered prayers for the Governor. This was followed by prayers for the nation and the Church led by the Primate.

The service which started by 9:00am featured an orderly procession by the choir, lay readers, priests, wardens, legal officers,  Bishops and Archbishops, Registrar and General Secretary of the Church of Nigeria, the Dean and the Primate. 

The only lesson for this service was taken from the book of Matthew 16: 13-20.

The inaugural sermon was delivered by The Rt. Rev’d Duke Akamisoko, the Bishop of Kubwa Diocese, who spoke on the theme: “The Power of the Gospel,” drawing from Romans 1:16. 

He emphasized that the primary purpose for the creation of this new diocese is to bring the transformative message of Christ to the people of Takum and its surrounding villages. “The reason why this new Takum Missionary Diocese was created is to bring the gospel to the people,” he stated, highlighting the inherent power of Christ to save and renew communities.

Bishop Duke identified three core pillars of the Gospel’s power that will define the mission in Takum. He asserted that no other instrument on earth can grant salvation from sin and the operations of the devil except the name of Jesus.

Quoting Romans 10, the Bishop noted that people cannot believe in whom they have not heard. He praised the Primate for sending The Rt. Rev’d Rika Garba Ibrahim as a “dynamic bishop, full of energy and strength” to lead this charge. 

He emphasized that the Gospel is for everyone “to the Jew first and the Greek” and declared that the Takum Diocese would preach to all tribes and people groups without hindrance.

Recounting the journey from Jalingo to Takum, Bishop Akamisoko described passing through numerous villages that will now fall under the jurisdiction of the new diocese. He noted that many inhabitants in these remote areas would be hearing the Gospel with newfound intensity.

“Some of these villagers are going to hear the gospel for the first time, second time, third time, until they believe,” he said. He challenged the new Bishop and his team of clergy to place evangelism at the “front burner” as their number one project.

The Bishop called upon the sons and daughters of Takum to embrace the “crusade mantle” and support the new leadership through prayer and cooperation. He expressed confidence that wherever the Gospel is accepted, “there is change, there is renewal.”

Shortly after the message, the representatives of the various archdeaconries being carved out as a diocese namely; Donga, Takum, Baissa, Bali, Serti, and Gembu Archdeaconries, presented their petition to create the missionary diocese before the Primate who accepted the petition and called for the deeds (relinquishment and acceptance) to be read and executed. 

The primate thereafter inaugurated the Missionary Diocese of Takum with a great applause and fun-fair from the congregation and lead prayers for the new diocese and the bishop and the people of Takum. Thereafter, the relinquishing diocesan, the Rt. Rev’d Foreman Nedison and his wife processed out with his crozier as a ceremonial signing out of his authority over the said geographical area.

The service was conducted by the Bishop of Pankshi Diocese, The Rt Rev’d Olumuyiwa Ajayi and attended by Archbishops, all bishops in the Jos Province, clergymen from various dioceses, Church of Nigeria officials among other dignitaries.

Takum Missionary Diocese was created from Jalingo Diocese as part of the 15 newly created dioceses in the Church of Nigeria at its last Standing committee meeting held at Ekiti Diocese in September.

Shortly after the inauguration which was marked by the processing out of the Primate and his entourage, the enthronement service commenced.

It was a landmark service gathering the Christain communiry of Zuru land on the 13th of December, 2025 at the Cathedral Church of St. Matthias, Rikoto, Zuru.

Declaring the diocese inaugurated after all processes and legal documentation were executed, the Primate urged the all in attendance to work with and pray for the bishop and his wife, The Rt.Rev Dr. and Mrs Ayuba Kanta for the grace to carry the mission work at hand which has been placed on them to develop the new missionary diocese; spreading the gospel of Christ. 

The service which started by 11:00am featured a procession by the choir, lay readers, priests, wardens, legal officers,  Bishops and Archbishops, Registrar and General Secretary of the Church of Nigeria, the Dean and the Primate. 

The only lesson for this service was taken from the book of Matthew 16:13-19.

In the sermon delivered by The Rt. Rev’d Joseph Musa, Bishop of Idah Diocese, called for aggressive evangelism as the primary weapon against rising insecurity and spiritual opposition in Nigeria.

Preaching from Matthew 16:18, “I will build my church and the gates of hell shall not prevail,” Bishop Musa addressed the unique challenges of establishing a diocese in an environment where the Church has faced physical and spiritual attacks.

Bishop Musa did not shy away from the harsh realities facing the region, noting that while the “gates of hell” used to manifest as abstract spirits, they have now taken the form of men who seek to extinguish the Church through violence and the burning of houses of worship.

“Of recent, the gates of hell have moved their headquarters to Nigeria,” the Bishop stated. “But they shall not prevail. It doesn’t matter how many churches they have burnt; the Church is a militant body covered by the blood of Jesus.”

The Bishop emphasized that the creation of new missionary dioceses is not merely an administrative act but a strategic military maneuver in the spirit. He argued that the only way to combat the “wickedness of the devil” and silence principalities is through the consistent preaching of the Gospel.

Key charges given to the pioneer Bishop, the Rt. Rev Ayuba Kanta, and the congregation included:

1. Evangelism as Confrontation: Standing on the truth and preaching the Gospel is the only force capable of confronting the “gates of hell.”

2. Fearless Leadership: The Bishop was urged to visit every “nook and cranny” of the diocese without fear, serving as a mentor to the clergy and a shepherd who builds without rest.

3. The Nehemiah Model: Leadership must be characterized by passion, zeal, and a commitment to building even when things are tough.

4. The Sword of the Spirit: The Bible must remain the primary weapon of the diocese to ensure that the enemy is driven back to where they came from.

Bishop Musa also admonished the Primate of All Nigeria, to continue the expansion of missionary dioceses into even the most dangerous territories, including the Sambisa forest.

“That is our weapon,” he remarked. “If 10 or 20 people of my kind [converts] are saved in the forest through the Gospel, they can take that message and overtake the enemy from within.”

The Bishop concluded with a plea to government authorities, including the Governor of Kebbi State and the President of Nigeria; While acknowledging the importance of physical security agencies, he insisted that leaders must allow the Gospel to thrive, as it is the “truth that will save Nigeria.”

He reminded the congregation that the strength of the new diocese lies in the personal salvation of its members. “Whosoever is here and doesn’t know Jesus Christ, you don’t know life,” he cautioned, urging clergy, wives, and youth to be truly converted so they can effectively join the Bishop in this new missionary frontier.

After the message, the representatives of the various archdeaconries being carved out as a diocese namely; Zuru, Elembelu and Rivah Archdeaconries,  presented their petition to create the missionary diocese of Zuru before the Primate who accepted the petition and called for the deeds (relinquishment and acceptance) to be read and executed. 

The primate thereafter inaugurated the Diocese with a great sound of joy from the congregation and lead the prayers for the new diocese, the bishop, clergy and laity.

The relinquishing diocesan, The Most. Rev. Dr. Edmund Akanya and his wife ceremonially moved out with his staff of office as a sign of signing out his jurisdiction  over the said area now inaugurated.

The service was conducted by the Archbishop of Kaduna, The Most Rev’d Dr. Timothy Yahaya and attended by bishops of the Church, clergymen from various part of Kaduna province, Church of Nigeria officials, among other dignitaries.

Zuru Missionary Diocese was created from Kebbi Diocese as part of the newly created 15 dioceses in the Church of Nigeria at its last Standing committee meeting held in Ekiti last September, 2025.

At the close of the inaugural service, the enthronement service commenced.