Friday October 16, 2026
By thenewsdesk.ng
The African Church, founded in 1901, began on Thursday its synod to mark 125 years of existence, with its leadership urging Akwa Ibom State Gov Umo Eno to extend development projects to neglected communities.
Archbishop Ime Brownson, who spoke at a news conference in Uyo, said the anniversary would celebrate the church’s legacy of faith, resilience, sacrifice and service to God and humanity.
He said the church had grown over the years, establishing more than 235 branches across Akwa Ibom State in three provinces: Uyo, Annang and Hallelujah.
According to Brownson, the church remains committed to preaching the gospel, promoting moral discipline, supporting community development and contributing to the spiritual and social well-being of residents.
He said the 2026 Diocesan Convention, themed “Total Recovery,” was drawn from 1 Samuel 30:18-19, which recounts how David recovered everything taken by the Amalekites.
Brownson described the theme as a message of hope, restoration and renewal, adding that individuals and communities could overcome difficult circumstances through faith, courage, wise leadership and collective action.
The archbishop commended Eno’s administration for its achievements in infrastructure, social welfare, health care, education, rural development and economic empowerment but called for greater attention to neglected areas.
He praised the delivery of more than 1,500 kilometres of roads, the clearance of pension and gratuity arrears owed to retired civil servants, the development of model primary schools and health care centres, and the rehabilitation of erosion-affected areas into productive public spaces.
He also highlighted the ARISE Palm Resort and road projects linking communities across the state, noting that improved rural roads connect residents to markets, hospitals, schools and other essential services.
Brownson said the church would use the convention to offer prayers, fasting, healing and spiritual guidance. The event would also feature a farewell for three former diocesan bishops who served before his leadership.
He urged residents to participate in the activities and called on government, religious institutions, traditional leaders, civil society, the media and citizens to promote unity, fairness, inclusion and peaceful coexistence.
“Unity must be more than a slogan. It must be reflected in mutual respect, fairness, inclusion, tolerance and a willingness to work across differences,” he said.
He added that Akwa Ibom’s progress depended on the collective contributions of residents, regardless of political affiliation, religion, ethnicity or social status.
(DayBreak)
