Rivers State Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, has commended Hon. Chijioke Ihunwo, the immediate past Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, for investing in the development of the Church.
Prof. Odu gave the commendation during the dedication of the parsonage, the 10th memorial thanksgiving service for the late Mrs. Justina Ihunwo, and the birthday thanksgiving of Hon. Chijioke Ihunwo at St. Philip’s Anglican Church, Oro-Igwe District, on Sunday, September 20, 2026.
Describing the dedication of the new parsonage as a worthy act of service to God, Prof. Odu said the Bible teaches that those who sow into the house of God and fertile spiritual ground would reap abundant blessings.
The Deputy Governor congratulated Ihunwo on his birthday and commended him for honouring the memory of his late mother through the memorial thanksgiving and construction of the parsonage.
She also pledged her support towards furnishing the new building, while urging other well-meaning individuals to join her in supporting the project, stressing that the benefits would extend to their families and future generations.
Prof. Odu expressed appreciation to the Bishop, clergy and choir for their contributions to the celebration and prayed that God would continue to bless all those who support the Church.
She expressed optimism that the support would be sustained, stressing that it should not be a one-off gesture but an ongoing commitment to the work of God.
In his sermon, the Bishop of the Diocese of Evo, Rt. Rev. Innocent Ordu, urged Christians to always acknowledge God’s faithfulness and celebrate the gift of life with gratitude.
Speaking from Psalm 71, the cleric said birthdays provided an opportunity for people to recognize God as the author and sustainer of their lives.
He noted that from conception and pregnancy through childbirth and the challenges of life, human survival remained dependent on God’s mercy and grace.
According to him, the Psalmist acknowledged God as the One who had sustained him from the womb, declaring, “My praise shall be continually of thee.”
Rt. Rev. Ordu further said grateful and wise people should acknowledge God’s role in their lives and celebrate their milestones in a godly manner.
He prayed for the celebrant to continue to enjoy God’s protection, grace and strength as he begins another year of life and service.
Also speaking, the celebrant, Hon. Chijioke Ihunwo, said the parsonage was constructed in memory of his beloved mother, who was a dedicated worker in the vineyard of God.