Gov. Alex Otti Lauded as CAN Abia Dedicates State to God at 2026 New Year Thanksgiving

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Abia State Chapter, on Sunday held its 2026 New Year Thanksgiving Service at the Wesley Methodist Church, Umuahia, drawing Christian leaders, government officials, and worshippers from across the state.

The solemn interdenominational service was aimed at dedicating Abia State to God at the beginning of the new year and offering prayers for peace, progress, and divine guidance for leaders at all levels.

Speaking at the event, the Deputy Governor of Abia State, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, FNSE, who represented the Executive Governor, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, conveyed the Governor’s warm greetings to CAN and the entire Christian community in the state. He explained that the Governor was unavoidably absent due to other official engagements but considered the CAN Thanksgiving Service significant enough to be officially represented.

The Deputy Governor described the service as timely and symbolic, noting that beginning the year with thanksgiving and prayers underscores the collective dependence on God for guidance, strength, and success. He expressed profound gratitude to God for preserving Abia State through the previous year despite its challenges and called for sustained prayers for peace, unity, and development.

Engr. Emetu commended the leadership and members of CAN, Abia State Chapter, for their steadfast prayers, moral guidance, and commitment to unity and godly values. He reaffirmed the determination of the Abia State Government to build a new Abia anchored on transparency, accountability, justice, and inclusive development, stressing that sustainable progress must be rooted in moral leadership and the fear of God.

“As a government, we recognize the Church as a critical partner in nation building, particularly in shaping character, promoting peace, and strengthening the moral fabric of our society,” the Deputy Governor stated.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Bishop of Item, Methodist Church Nigeria, Archdiocese of Umuahia, Rt. Rev. Dr. Ikechukwu Emezi Nkulo, who represented the Archbishop of Umuahia, Most Rev. Dr. Chibuzo Raphael Opoko, emphasized the biblical injunction to pray for those in authority. He noted that the annual thanksgiving service, now in its third year, reflects gratitude to God for the positive changes being witnessed in Abia State.

According to him, the Church has every reason to continually intercede for the state and its leaders, stressing that prayer remains central to sustaining good governance and societal transformation. He appreciated the presence of government representatives and clergy and acknowledged the Wesley Methodist Church for consistently hosting the annual gathering.

Special prayers were offered for the Governor, the Deputy Governor, other public office holders, and the continued peace and prosperity of Abia State and Nigeria at large.

The event was attended by the Special Assistant to the Governor on Religious Matters, Apostle KC Wiper; Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth Development, Comrade Onyebuchi Chukwu; Chairman, Abia State Pilgrims Welfare Board, His Eminence Apostle General Dr. E.O. Agomuo; senior clergy from various denominations, CAN executives, state appointees, and members of the Christian community across Abia State.

Sir Cyril Chukwudi Eke Mba
Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor of Abia State
11th January, 2026.