Monday August 3, 2026
www.thenewsdesk.ng
Akwa Ibom Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has challenged Christians to emerge as compelling voices of truth, integrity and righteousness in an era increasingly shaped by fleeting social trends, urging them to counter negative influences through exemplary character, purposeful leadership and an unwavering commitment to godly values.
The Governor made the call on Sunday, August 2, 2026, while delivering the keynote message at the Special Leadership Sunday Service of Shepherd’s House Assembly International, Apo Resettlement, Abuja, where he spoke on the theme, “Becoming the Voice of Influence.”
Addressing a congregation of worshippers, leaders, parents and young people, Governor Eno urged believers to embrace lives defined by purpose, humility, integrity and service, warning against the growing influence of social media, entertainment and fashion trends which, he said, too often promote distraction rather than transformation.
While acknowledging the immense power of digital platforms in shaping public opinion, the Governor observed that many of the voices dominating today’s landscape amplify confusion instead of offering solutions. True influence, he noted, inspires hope, promotes peace and transforms lives through truth and righteous living.
Declaring that God raises men and women in every generation to serve as agents of positive change, Governor Eno reminded Christians that influence is both a divine calling and a personal responsibility.
“You are the voice of influence for your generation,” he declared, urging believers to stand firmly for truth, integrity and righteousness despite prevailing societal pressures.
The Governor described an influential person as one whose values and conduct positively shape the thoughts, decisions and actions of others, stressing that genuine influence begins at home. He therefore charged parents to intentionally raise their children with sound moral values and godly principles, noting that many attitudes displayed in adulthood are formed during childhood.
He further challenged the Church to remain steadfast in its divine mandate of raising a generation anchored in God’s purpose and equipped to provide principled leadership in society.
Governor Eno also underscored humility and good character as indispensable foundations for enduring influence, observing that God prepares individuals in private before entrusting them with positions of public responsibility. He encouraged aspiring leaders to embrace faithful service, resist the temptation to complain and allow life’s experiences to refine their character.
Concluding his address, the Governor urged Christians to measure influence not by popularity or public acclaim, but by the positive impact their lives make on others. He also advocated constructive engagement over agitation, maintaining that lasting influence is built on wisdom, service and purposeful leadership.
Earlier, the Senior Pastor of Shepherd’s House Assembly International, Apostle Dr. Joshua Talena, preaching on the theme, “Month of Spiritual Influence,” described spiritual influence as the unseen atmosphere that shapes a person’s life and ultimately determines outcomes.
According to the cleric, every individual carries a spiritual atmosphere that either attracts or repels opportunities, relationships and divine blessings. He warned against negative spiritual influences manifested through stagnation, rejection and spiritual dryness, and prayed for God to replace every atmosphere of limitation with divine favour, grace and positive influence.
The service featured praise and worship, special musical renditions, the presentation of offerings, and a cultural dance performance by Akwa Ibom indigenes in the church, who were later joined by members of the Women Wing of the Akwa Ibom Community in Abuja.
Dignitaries in attendance included the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah; former Senator Effiong Bob and his wife; members of the House of Representatives, including Engr. Uwem Okoko; the Managing Director of the South South Development Commission, Usoro Akpabio; the Permanent Secretary, Akwa Ibom State Liaison Office, Abuja, TPL Aniekan Akpan; and other distinguished guests.
