…Hails Bishop Obi for spiritual, physical growth as CSO Azubuko expresses joy
By David Onwuchekwa
The Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of Nnewi and Archbishop Emeritus of the Province of the Niger, Rt. Revd. Godwin Okpala, has lauded the Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, Rt. Revd. Ndubuisi Obi, for sustaining the spiritual and physical growth of the Diocese as it marked 30 years of existence.
Preaching at the grand finale of the 30th anniversary celebration held at the Cathedral Church of St. Mary, Nnewi, Archbishop Okpala described the Diocese as a “child of evangelism,” emphasizing that its journey over the past three decades reflects God’s faithfulness and mercy.
Reflecting on the early days of the Diocese, the Archbishop went down memory lane, recounting how it was established and how he emerged as its pioneer Bishop.
He described his emergence as miraculous and expressed gratitude for the progress recorded from its inception through the transition to Bishop Obi’s leadership.
According to him, the Diocese has remained vibrant and committed to spreading the gospel of Christ.
Archbishop Okpala commended the priests and laity of the Diocese for their dedication, noting that their commitment is a testament to the quality of leadership provided by Bishop Obi and his wife, Mrs. Ukamaka Obi.
He urged the clergy to renew their strength, uphold integrity, and remain obedient to the demands of their divine calling.
He also praised Bishop Obi’s early morning devotional programme, describing it as unique and spiritually enriching. The Archbishop revealed that he follows the programme regularly and derives joy from meditating on its messages.
In his response, Bishop Obi expressed deep appreciation to Archbishop Okpala for the inspiring sermon and fatherly guidance. He described the Archbishop as a peaceful and calm servant of God whom the Lord used for 23 years to build and nurture the Diocese.
The celebration was further enlivened with the presentation of awards to distinguished personalities and illustrious members of the Diocese.
Among those honoured were Archbishop Okpala, Mr. Humphrey Ngonadi, the late Isaac Asomugha, and Barr. Unoaku. Some of the awards were posthumous.
The Chief Security Officer of the Diocese, Hon. Nnamdi Azubuko, expressed delight at the rapid spiritual and infrastructural growth of the Diocese under Bishop Obi’s leadership.
He noted that God has been using the Bishop to implement sound development strategies for the advancement of the Church.
Hon. Azubuko assured members of the Diocese of his commitment to safeguarding lives and property, adding that he would remain steadfast in discharging his responsibilities.
He added that the 30th anniversary celebration has once again demonstrated Bishop Obi’s dedication as the chief shepherd of the Diocese.
