From Okey Sampson, Umuahia
Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, has commended the Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Church for investing in education and in other areas in Abia.
Governor Otti gave the commendation at the climax of activities marking the centenary anniversary celebration of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Eastern Nigeria Union Conference, held at the Enyimba International Stadium, Aba.
Otti who said it was imperative for his administration to explore proper channels of partnership with the church to add value to the lives of Abia people, added that such partnership would be aimed at expanding the frontiers of learning for millions of young Abians whose future he said he was passionate about.
“Our government, just like the church, is very much interested in education, which in my experience and conviction, presents the surest path to overcoming the burden of poverty and the bondages that come with ignorance.
“Our government will also be keen to partner with the church in social service areas, particularly health and poverty alleviation, especially for our women in rural communities.”
The governor reiterated his commitment to serve Abia people with the fear of God, and ensure alleviation of poverty among the people.
He appreciated God for His immense blessings to the church and thanked the church for sustaining the efforts of the early fathers of the faith who brought the church to Eastern Nigeria.
He said the journey for the next 100 years for the church has begun and advised the members to reconsider their priorities, especially in the light of the theme of this centenary celebration, “Almost Home.”
Otti who is an Adventist added: “It is our duty as Adventists to be conscious of the time we are living in and always mindful of eternity because the earth, with all its attractions and glory, is not our home.”
Preaching at the event with the theme, “Almost Home”, drawn from Philippians 3:12-13, the world leader and General Conference President of the SDA, Pastor Ted Wilson, urged Christians to focus on the mission of Jesus Christ and ensure they make it to heaven in the end.
He reminded the Adventist members as they celebrate the centenary anniversary they should know Jesus may not wait for the next 100 years to come, hence the need for them not to allow anything including, political differences, economic challenges or social violence to distract them from the gospel of Jesus Christ.
“Don’t let the devil distract you from your mission, for we are almost at home. Do not allow anything to distract you from your mission or your goal,” he charged them.
Pastor Wilson praised Otti for giving special attention to the beautification of the Enyimba International Stadium for the event.