Anglican Diocese of Orlu on Sunday conferred a special recognition on Imo state governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma in recognition of his visionary leadership and infrastructural transformation across the eastern heartland. Uzodimma at the end of the synod, went home with “Professor of Road Network and Infrastructure.” award.
The 3rd session of the 14th Synod of Orlu Diocese held at St Barnabas Church Okwudor, Njaba Council Area of Imo state.
Presenting the award to Governor Hope Uzodimma, Bishop of the Diocese Rt Rev Benjamin Chinedum Okeke remarked that Uzodimma’s administration has prioritized massive infrastructure expansion particularly road networks culminating in the construction and reconstruction of over 100 kilometers of road in Imo state.
Bishop Okeke singled out Owerri-Orlu road, Owerri-Okigwe road, Owerri-Mbaise-Umuahia road among many others as commendable strategic high ways with good quality built for the present generation and posterity by Gov Hope Uzodimma that prompted the diocese to recognize him at the synod convocation.
Representing the Governor and receiving the award on his behalf, the Deputy Governor, Lady Chinyere Ihuoma Ekomaru thanked the church for the honour.
She described Governor Uzodimma as the “Road Master and Infrastructural Governor” and pledged that his shared prosperity administration would continue to deliver more dividends of democracy to the people.
Lady Ekomaru explained that the Governor’s exemplary leadership had changed the narrative of the state, restored peace, and opened up opportunities for both local and foreign investments.
Reflecting on the significance of the synod, Lady Ekomaru noted that synod is highest and largest annual spiritual gathering of every Anglican Diocese, and urged the faithful to always take it seriously. She reaffirmed her belief in the Holy Trinity—God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—and said that God’s power directs leadership.
The deputy governor later announced Gov. Uzodimma’s donation of ₦100 million towards various ongoing projects in Orlu Anglican Diocese.
The Deputy Governor was accompanied by her husband, His Excellency Chief (Barr.) Chukwuma Ekomaru, SAN, Registrar and Clerk of the Anglican Diocese of Owerri.
Delivering the sermon on the theme of the synod”The Power of Trusting God,” Bishop of Ohaji/Egbema, Rt. Rev. (Dr) Chidi Collins Oparajiaku, said accepting the power bestowed by the Holy Spirit is the beginning of trusting God.
Anchoring his message on Acts 1:8, the prelate stressed that anyone – teacher, lawyer, doctor, businessman, or politician – who receives the power of God with the accompanying Holy Ghost will do great things for God and humanity in any role even as he urged everyone to be open to receiving God’s power for a better society.
In his address to the 3rd session of the 14th synod, Bishop Benjamin Okeke had earlier on Saturday tasked christians to always trust God no matter the situation or circumstance.
“Trusting God offers numerous benefits, including inner peace, strength in difficult times, and a stronger relationship with God”.
Flanked by his wife and President of Women Ministry in the Diocese Nneobioma Uloma Okeke, Archbishop of Owerri Province/Bishop of Okigwe South Most Rev’d David Onuoha, other visiting bishops and Diocesan officials, Bishop Okeke said; “When we trust in God, we can find freedom from fear and anxiety”.
The host Archdeacon, Ven (Barr) Obum Onyirioha and his parishioners showed manifest capacity in hosting the synod particularly in the areas of security, coordination, lunching of the Bishop’s charge.
The Chancellor of the Diocese, Hon Justice Goody Anunihu, Deputy Chancellor Hon. Justice Grace Chukwunyere, Legal officer of the Diocese and Chair, Nigeria Bar Association NBA Orlu branch, Sir Obodozie Okolie, Knights and Ladies from within the diocese led by Sir (Barr) Austin Otuokere and those from Owerri Province led by Dame Ugoeze Asor, attended the synod.
Over 10 bishops from Owerri Province led by Archbishop David Onuoha alongside emeritus Archbishop of Owerri Province and former Bishop Orlu Diocese, Most Rev’d Bennett C.I Okoro and his wife Nneoma Dora Okoro also attended the four synod convocation.
