…Calls for constructive engagement at Nigeria’s 66th Independence Thanksgiving

Founder and President of Christian Central Chapel International (CCCI), a.k.a Faith Mansion World, Calabar, Archbishop Emmah Gospel Isong, has warned Nigerians against resorting to wicked, destructive and malicious criticism of those in positions of authority, urging instead constructive criticism that builds the nation.

Archbishop Isong handed down the warning on Sunday in Calabar while delivering an exhortation during an interdenominational Thanksgiving Service organized to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.

The service, held at the Faith Mansion World auditorium, drew top government functionaries, judicial officers, security chiefs, traditional rulers and faithful from across denominations.

Preaching on the theme, “Using Your Past Testimonies To Get Your Future Miracles”, drawn from Exodus 15:22-25, the renowned cleric said the nation’s journey, like Israel’s journey through the wilderness, demands thanksgiving, reflection and trust in God for greater exploits ahead.

According to him, Nigerians must learn to appreciate God’s faithfulness in the past as a spiritual strategy to unlock future miracles.

He said: “Do not engage in wicked criticism against those in authority. Constructively criticize them. There is a difference between wicked criticism meant to pull down, and constructive criticism meant to build up. God expects us to honour authority while also holding it accountable in love and truth.”

Archbishop Isong also charged those in positions of authority not to forget God’s past blessings and testimonies upon their lives.

“Those in authority must not forget where God picked them from. When you thank God for yesterday, you provoke Him to do more tomorrow. Ingratitude closes the heavens, but thanksgiving opens the future,” he declared.

He noted that despite Nigeria’s challenges, the country has enormous reasons to thank God for preservation, unity and progress at 66.

The Thanksgiving Service was attended by Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, who was represented by the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem.

Also present were members of the State Executive Council, the Chief Judge of Cross River State, Justice Akon Ikpeme, members of the State House of Assembly, former Deputy Governor of the state, Prof. Ivara Esu, Service Commanders, traditional rulers, and leaders of various Christian blocs.

The high point of the service was special intercessory prayers for the nation. Prayers were offered for the unity, security and prosperity of Nigeria; for the full manifestation of God’s glory upon Cross River State; for the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; for the Governor of Cross River State and his administration; and for all arms of government.

In his remarks, the representative of the Governor, Rt. Hon. Ayambem, thanked the Church for its consistent role in upholding the state and the nation in prayers, assuring that the Otu-led administration remains committed to the People First agenda and to building a Cross River that reflects God’s glory.

Archbishop Isong later led the congregation in a prophetic declaration for Nigeria, expressing optimism that despite present economic and security pains, the nation’s best days are ahead if leaders and citizens return to God with a grateful heart and responsible citizenship.