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Governors Bassey Otu of Cross River and Alex Otti of Abia, alongside the Obong of Calabar, His Eminence Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi-Otu V, have hailed the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria (PCN) on its 180 years of existence and its impact on education, health, and nation-building.
The grand finale of the 180th Anniversary Celebration and 27th General Assembly, held at the historic Hope Waddell Parish, Calabar Synod, drew dignitaries from across the country to honour what church leaders described as “the mustard seed planted in 1846.”
Representing Governor Otu, Deputy Governor Peter Odey said the Presbyterian story in Nigeria began in Cross River with the arrival of missionaries led by Reverend Hope Waddell and the establishment of the first congregation at Creek Town in 1846.
He commended the PCN for establishing institutions that shaped generations, listing the Hope Waddell Training Institution in Calabar, Eja Memorial Joint Hospital in Itigidi, Presbyterian TB and Leprosy Hospital in Mbembe, Obubra, Mgbeke Farms in Yakurr, and Obubra Farms in Mbembe.
“Beyond preaching the Gospel, the church built the schools that produced our leaders, the hospitals that healed our people, and the farms that fed our communities.
“That legacy must continue in peacebuilding, youth development, and social cohesion, especially amid today’s security challenges.”
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He reaffirmed the Otu administration’s commitment to partnering with faith-based organisations in education, health, youth empowerment, and social welfare and assured the church of continued government support.
Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, was represented by the Rector of Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Aba, Dr Christopher Kalu Okoro, who congratulated the PCN on the milestone and praised its “enduring contributions to humanity.”
The Obong of Calabar, His Eminence Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi-Otu V, lauded the pivotal role of the church in instilling values and transforming lives.
He urged members to remain united in service to God and humanity and called on religious, political, and traditional leaders to strengthen collaboration for peace, unity, and development.
In his address, the Prelate and Moderator of the General Assembly, His Eminence Ekpenyong Akpanika, PhD, described the 180th anniversary as a historic milestone and a call to preserve the church’s spiritual heritage while embracing reforms in discipleship, youth development, and mission.
The high point of the event was the presentation of awards to Governor Otu, his wife, Bishop Eyoanwan Otu, the Obong of Calabar, and other eminent personalities for their contributions to the church.
