Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, has eulogised the virtues of the outgoing Bishop of the Niger Delta Diocese, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Rt. Rev. Ralph Cornelius Ebirien who has retired from active service having clocked the mandatory retirement age of 70.

The governor who was represented by his Deputy, Dr. Ipalibo Harry Banigo at the retirement Thanksgiving and 70th Birthday Service for the Bishop, called on the church to emulate the humility and spiritual lifestyle of Bishop Ebirien, whom, he said, brought tremendous changes to the Diocese. He also thanked the church and Bishop Ebirien for their prayers for the state.

In his sermon, the Bishop of Niger Delta North Diocese, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Rt. Rev. Wisdom Budu Ihunwo, expressed gratitude to God for preserving the life of the outgoing Bishop, adding that the best thing that could happen to a man is to retire when still alive.

The outgoing Bishop thanked God for attaining the age of 70 and retiring after 40 years of serving the Lord.

Archbishop Ecclesiastical Province of Niger Delta and Bishop of Ikwerre Diocese, Most Rev (Dr) Blessing Enyindah, represented the Primate, Most Reverend Henry Ndukuba. Enyindah used the platform to announce Rt. Rev. Wisdom Budu Ihunwo, as the Supervising Bishop of the Diocese.

Some of the dignitaries that graced the event included the Chairman of Andoni Local Council, Barr. Erastus C. Awortu; Bishop Gberegbara of Ogoni; Bishop I. U. Ordu; retired Archbishop of Methodist Church, Port Harcourt; Bishop of Okrika, Rt. Rev T. R. Abere; Rt Rev Precious O. Nwala and Mrs. Chinyere O. Elenwo.