Obiano fetes Anglican Communion Bishops

THE governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano, has taken steps to strengthen the existing relationship between his administration and religious organisations, especially the Anglican Communion, in the state.

Governor Obiano, at a dinner he organised for Archbishops and Bishops of the Anglican Communion at the Banquet Hall of the Governor’s Lodge, Amawbia, described the Church and government as partners in progress in the task of changing lives and building a virile society.

The governor expressed the belief that a healthy relationship with all denominations will avail his administration of the much-needed peace and spiritual backing to actualise its lofty dreams for the state.

According to him, a clear understanding of the roles of the church would guide religious leaders in pursuing peace and unity with one another as pre-requisite for development of society.

The Governor observed that the state is presently reaping dividends of its partnership with the church in key sectors of the economy and assured that such engagements will be sustained.

While assuring the church of his administration’s continued support towards their evangelistic strides, Governor Obiano called for fervent prayers for the nation and its leaders in the task of administering the affairs of the nation.

Archbishop, Metropolitan and Primate of all Nigeria, Anglican Communion, the Most Reverend Nicholas Okoh, described Governor Obiano as a visionary leader and great crusader, whose dogged efforts are already yielding results towards breaking barriers created by the acrimony that hitherto existed among the various religious denominations in the State.

Commending the governor for his efforts in repositioning Mission-owned Schools and health institutions in the state, Okoh assured him of the prayers and support of the church towards the success of his administration.

In the entourage were 167 Anglican Prelates and their wives who were in the State for the consecration service of three new Bishops — Moses Tabwaye for Gwagwalada Diocese, the Johnson Ekwe for Niger West and the Isaac Oluyamo for Ijesa North Diocese — at the All Saints Cathedral, Onitsha.

The dinner guests were later thrilled with performances by the famous Mkpokiti Dance Troupe from Umunze, and the State NYSC Dance and Drama Troupe.