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.

Watch Today’s Anglican Daily Fountain Devotional:

Watch the devotion on ACNNTV YouTube Channel

Partner with ACNNTV

Help us reach the world with the undiluted Word of God. Make Donations through our website or via the details below:

Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion ACNN Account

Account Number: 1016868363 (Zenith Bank)

Thank you for joining the Kingdom Partners today

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.

Jonathan spoke on Saturday at the first session of the 13th Synod of the Anglican Diocese of Abuja, held in Abuja.

In his goodwill message, he called for national reflection, spiritual renewal, and responsible leadership in addressing the country’s worsening social and security challenges.

According to him, many Nigerians have become desensitised to bloodshed and destruction, unlike in the past when such incidents triggered widespread outrage and collective grief.

“As someone who has spent many years in public life and politics, I must confess that moments like this provide an opportunity for sober reflection on the state of our society,” he said.

He noted that violence, insecurity, moral decline, and the erosion of human values have become deeply troubling realities in the country.

“What is even more painful is how society sometimes appears to normalise these tragedies as though they are ordinary occurrences. In times past, such incidents would shake the conscience of the nation. Today, people are killed, communities are destroyed, and life continues as though nothing has happened,” Jonathan said.

He stressed that Nigeria urgently needs moral direction, spiritual guidance, and a restoration of values.

The former President also emphasised the role of the Church in shaping society, urging religious leaders to continue speaking truth, defending righteousness, and guiding citizens through faith-based leadership.

Jonathan further warned about the negative influence of modern technology and information systems, saying they have contributed to the spread and glorification of harmful behaviours.

“That is why the role of the Church remains indispensable. The Church must continue to stand as the conscience of society,” he said.

He added that leadership remains critical in moments of national crisis, calling for integrity, courage, and vision in public office, as well as prayers for leaders and collective efforts toward peace and national renewal.

Also speaking at the event, former Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Peter Akinola, described the conference as symbolic and strategic, noting that the global Anglican Communion is currently facing what he called a “revisionist agenda.

He made the call during the first session of the 13th Synod of the Anglican Diocese of Abuja held at St. James Anglican Church, Asokoro, on Saturday.

His reaction follows the recent Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and two Chinese firms for the rehabilitation, operation and maintenance of the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries.

The agreement has continued to attract criticism from stakeholders in the oil and gas sector, with concerns over transparency, accountability and Nigeria’s growing dependence on foreign partners.

Speaking at the Synod, The Primate said the Federal Government should instead consider handing the refineries to capable Nigerian investors who would revive the facilities and reinvest profits into the nation’s economy.

According to him, allowing foreign firms to dominate the sector could expose the country to further exploitation.

“The recent handover of the national refineries to China must be reconsidered so that some are given to competent Nigerians who will plow back their gains into Nigeria,” he said.

The Anglican Primate acknowledged that President Bola Tinubu inherited serious economic challenges but noted that some reforms introduced by the administration were beginning to stabilise key economic indicators.

However, he lamented that many Nigerians were yet to feel the impact of the reforms, citing the rising level of poverty across the country.

“With millions of Nigerians living in multidimensional poverty, macroeconomic gains have not translated into relief for ordinary citizens,” he stated.

Ndukuba also expressed concern over Nigeria’s rising debt profile, high lending rates and persistent electricity challenges, warning that the country’s dream of achieving a $1 trillion economy may remain difficult without stable power supply.

On the political situation in the country, the cleric accused politicians of focusing more on preparations for the 2027 elections instead of governance and citizens’ welfare.

He further urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to remain neutral and ensure credible elections in 2027.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan, who also spoke at the event, decried the increasing level of moral decline and violence in society.

Jonathan said Nigeria would overcome its current challenges with committed leadership and collective effort, adding that national development requires discipline and consistency over time.

By Raphael A. Aderinwale and Korede Akintunde
in ABUJA, Nigeria — Saturday, 16 May 2026

The Diocese of Abuja, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), has opened the First Session of its Thirteenth Synod with a call on the whole people of God to rediscover their identity as a royal priesthood and take their place in the mission of the Church and the transformation of society.

The Synod, holding at St. James’ Anglican Church, Asokoro, Abuja, from Thursday, 14 to Sunday, 17 May 2026, has its theme: “The Priesthood of All Believers: Equipping God’s People for the Work of Ministry,” drawn from 1 Peter 2:4–5, 9–10.

The Presidential Address, also known as the Bishop’s Charge, was delivered by the Archbishop, Metropolitan and Primate of All Nigeria, and Bishop of Abuja, His Grace, The Most Rev’d Dr Henry C. Ndukuba.

In his address, Primate Ndukuba called the Church to recover the biblical meaning of the priesthood of all believers, stressing that ministry belongs to the whole people of God and not the clergy alone. He reminded Christians that their priestly identity is “not titles to be claimed but a calling to be fulfilled.”

He urged the Church to move beyond titles and offices to become a functional body where every believer is equipped to serve God in the Church, the family, the workplace and society.

Speaking on the state of the nation, the Primate called for moral and national rebirth, noting that Nigeria’s challenges require sincerity, justice, accountability and the fear of God.

He expressed concern over hardship, unemployment, insecurity, corruption, drug abuse, cultism and moral decline, urging the Church, government, families and communities to work together for national restoration.

The Synod was graced by distinguished national and ecclesiastical leaders, reflecting the significance of the Diocese of Abuja in the life of the Church and the nation.

Among those present were former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon; former President of Nigeria, Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan; former Primate of the Church of Nigeria, The Most Rev’d Nicholas Okoh, the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, who was represented by Senator Ireti Kingibe, former Archbishop of Bendel Province, The Most Rev. Friday Imeakhia, Archbishop Emeritus of Lokoja Province, The Most Rev’d Dr. Emmanuel Egbunu, Archbishop of Kaduna Province, The Most Rev’d Dr. Timothy Yahaya, Archbishop of Enugu Province, The Most Rev’s Sosthenes Eze. Also present were over twenty bishops and other revered Fathers of the Church, senior clergy, diocesan officials, delegates, captain of industries, politicians and special guests.

Goodwill messages were received from dignitaries present at the Synod, including former President Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and former Primate, The Most Rev’d Nicholas Okoh, both of whom spoke warmly of the Diocese and its leadership, state of the nation and church.

A major highlight of the goodwill messages was that of former Primate, The Most Rev’d Peter Jasper Akinola, which was delivered by Venerable Titi Ogbonyomi, who commended Primate Ndukuba for the successful hosting of GAFCON G26 in March and for his courageous defence of biblical orthodoxy in the face of revisionist pressures within and outside of the Anglican Communion.

A notable moment during the Synod was the preferment of some clergy in recognition of their service to God and the Church. The Rev’d Thomas Marcus, The Rev’d Victor Musa and The Rev’d Nathan Haruna were preferred as Honorary Canons, while Canon Kosygin Ezeugbor was preferred as Venerable.

Primate Ndukuba expressed warm appreciation to the Vicar, the Parochial Church Council and the entire membership of St. James’ Anglican Church, Asokoro, for their sacrifice, generosity and wholehearted commitment in hosting the Diocesan Synod.

He prayed that the Synod would refresh, empower and reposition the Diocese of Abuja for greater mission, ministry and service to God and humanity.

The Synod continues with worship, Bible teaching, deliberations and the consideration of matters affecting the mission, growth and administration of the Diocese.