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Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has congratulated the newly inaugurated executives of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Abia State Chapter, urging them to regard their new positions as a divine call to service and an opportunity to contribute to the spiritual and moral development of the state.
Governor Otti, who was represented by his Special Assistant on Religious Matters, Apostle Kenneth Wiper, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to partnering with the Christian community, acknowledging its significant contributions to peace, good governance and the overall development of Abia State.
The Governor conveyed his goodwill and prayers to the new executives, describing their inauguration as more than a leadership transition but a sacred responsibility to serve the body of Christ and the people of the state.
“This is a divine call to serve. It is not merely a change of office or a transition; it is a sacred mandate to lead the body of Christ at a time like this,” he stated.
Governor Otti highlighted the important role of the PFN in the development of the state, noting that the prayers, counsel and moral guidance of Christian leaders remain valuable to his administration.
He recalled that his administration had consistently acknowledged the importance of divine grace and the prayers of the Church, particularly during the recently held State Solemn Assembly and Covenant Renewal Service, where Abia State was rededicated to God.
The Governor urged the new PFN leadership to sustain its partnership with the government by offering constructive advice, providing moral and spiritual guidance, and mobilising citizens to uphold righteousness and good values.
“We need your prophetic voice to keep us on our toes, to keep us on watch, and your counsel to guide our policies, because one policy can affect the entire Church overnight,” he said.
He further emphasised that sustainable development requires cooperation between the Church and government in promoting truth, equity, the common good, and the welfare of the poor and vulnerable.
Governor Otti also disclosed that the Abia State Government had allocated land to the PFN for the construction of its state secretariat. He described the gesture as part of his administration’s commitment to supporting the growth and activities of the Christian community.
He assured the PFN leadership that the state government remained open to continued engagement and collaboration, describing the Church and government as “co-labourers in the vineyard” working towards a better Abia State.
Earlier, the Abia State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Rev. Ojo Ojo, congratulated the newly inaugurated PFN executives and urged them to lead with the fear of God.
Rev. Ojo expressed delight at the growth of the PFN leadership in the state, charging the new executives to be shining examples in their respective positions and to live exemplary lives worthy of emulation.
Delivering a sermon titled “The Vessel That Will Not Be Used,” Rev. Dr. John Eze warned that one of the most painful experiences for a servant of God is to be called by God but fail to remain useful in His service.
He encouraged Christians to be intentional about their service to God, stressing that every level of responsibility is valuable when properly utilised.
“Every level is valuable when it is used,” he said, urging the newly inaugurated leaders not to abuse the opportunities entrusted to them but to remain vessels of honour and faithfully advance the work of God in their respective local government areas.
Rev. Dr. Eze further charged the executives to demonstrate God’s grace through practical service, sacrifice and renewed commitment, noting that grace should not merely be displayed outwardly but should prepare believers for greater responsibilities.
He urged the new leaders to put God first and conduct themselves as faithful ministers and ambassadors of Christ, particularly at the grassroots level.
