Governor Umo Eno (R) in a handshake with the Prelate and Moderator of the General Assembly, His Eminence, Ekpenyong Akpanika.
By Anietie Akpan
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno has charged the Christian community to intensify prayers for Nigeria as it was critical to get the country out of its current socio- economic challenges.
The Governor gave the charge during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, led by the Prelate and Moderator of the General Assembly, His Eminence, Ekpenyong Akpanika, at the Governor’s Office, Uyo.
He noted that the Bible admonishes Christians to pray for leaders, adding that the country was at a very low ebb and requires God’s grace and mercy for a reversal of the current situation.
Gov. Eno noted that the state and the church have enjoyed robust relationship over the years, and will continue to partner with the church to bring the much needed succour to the people particularly at this critical moment.
He commended the Presbyterian Church for its laudable contributions to the development of the state especially with the Mary Slessor’s story and its general contribution to the good of the people in the areas of education, agriculture, health and others.
The Governor who noted that the request of the church cuts across different ministries, said the relevant Ministries will partner with them where necessary.
He assured that the state will continue to support the church’s pursuit to ensure that the people are not only emancipated spiritually but in every ramifications.
Earlier in his address, Prelate Akpanika commended the governor for his different developmental and humanitarian strides including payment of arears of gratuities and other benefits to workers, the compassionate homes, and others, and assured of continuous prayers and support for his administration.
He said the church was engaging in different enterprise including education, agriculture, and health services, and therefore appealed for partnership to expand the Presby farm, develop and promote Mary Slessor chapel for tourism, and others.
In the team were; Rt Rev Aniefiok Victor Ekop (Deputy Clerk), Rt. Rev. Dr. Theophilus Bassey (Moderator of Akwa Synod) Rt. Rev Ofonime Udo (Clerk, Akwa Synod) Very Rev. Itoro Johnson (Clerk Abasi Ibom Synod), Elder Mrs. Rita Ekanem (Trustee) and Elder Barr. Akanimo Asuquo among others.