Former Taraba State Governor Darius Ishaku, former Imo State Governor Rt Hon Emeka Ihedioha, wife of former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, Titi Abubakar, and other prominent Nigerians on Saturday joined the Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), the Most Rev Dr Henry Ndukuba, to celebrate his 65th birthday in Abuja.
The Thanksgiving service and book presentation, held at the Cathedral Church of the Advent, Life Camp, Gwarimpa, drew an array of dignitaries, including former Inspector-General of Police Sunday Ehindero, former Anglican Primate Archbishop Nicholas Okoh and former Minister of Power, Prof Chinedu Nebo, who reviewed the newly unveiled book.
Addressing journalists after the service, Archbishop Ndukuba thanked God for preserving his life and ministry, saying he felt stronger and more energised despite advancing in age.
“The Lord has always been there for us, and I don’t feel grumpy; rather, I feel energised,” he said, adding that his prayer was for continued strength, good health and spiritual vitality to serve God and humanity.
The Anglican Primate reaffirmed his commitment to serving the Church and society, stressing that growing older should inspire greater wisdom and dedication to helping others.
“We pray that the Lord will help us to be of service to Him, to His people, to the Church of God and to our world. I believe there is still much more to be done, and today we offer ourselves back to God and pray for His enabling grace,” he stated.
Ndukuba urged leaders at all levels to embrace humility and selfless service, emphasising that leadership is a responsibility rather than a platform for personal glory.
He described Jesus Christ as the perfect example of servant leadership, noting that genuine greatness is reflected in humility and compassion for others.
Quoting the late Kenyan bishop Festo Kivengere, he likened a productive life to a mango tree heavy with ripe fruit that bends low, saying true leaders become more humble as they carry greater responsibilities.
The Primate also described his emergence as head of the Anglican Communion in Nigeria as an act of divine grace rather than personal merit.
“There are a thousand and one people God could have chosen. I am not the best, but for God to put His finger on me is purely His grace. I have not earned it,” he said.
The celebration featured prayers, thanksgiving and the unveiling of Ndukuba’s new book, with guests paying glowing tributes to his impactful leadership and contributions to the Church and national development.
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