Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has commended the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria (PCN) for 180 years of faith, service and transformative contributions to the development of Cross River State and Nigeria.
Otu, who was represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, stated this on Saturday at the grand finale of the 180th Anniversary Celebration and 27th General Assembly of the church, held at the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, Hope Waddell Parish, Calabar Synod.
The Governor described the anniversary as a celebration of the church’s resilience, service and enduring impact, noting that the Presbyterian story in Nigeria began in Cross River State with the arrival of missionaries led by Reverend Hope Waddell and the establishment of the first Presbyterian congregation at Creek Town in 1846.
He commended the church for its pioneering contributions to education, healthcare, community development and human capital formation, particularly through institutions such as the Hope Waddell Training Institution, Calabar, which he said had contributed significantly to shaping generations of Cross Riverians and Nigerians.
Otu further acknowledged the church’s enduring contributions across the state, citing the Eja Memorial Joint Hospital in Itigidi, Presbyterian Tuberculosis and Leprosy Hospital in Mbembe, Obubra, Mgbeke Farms in Yakurr and Obubra Farms in Mbembe as notable interventions that have advanced healthcare, agriculture and community development.
The Governor urged the church to deepen its contributions to peacebuilding, conflict resolution, youth development and social cohesion, particularly amid contemporary security challenges. While security remains the primary responsibility of government, he said faith-based organisations have an important role in shaping responsible citizens, promoting tolerance and dialogue, and preventing conflicts within communities.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to partnering with faith-based organisations, including the Presbyterian Church, in advancing education, healthcare, youth empowerment, peacebuilding and social welfare across the state, assuring the church of continued support and collaboration in building a safer, more peaceful and prosperous Cross River.
Otu congratulated the Moderator, General Assembly and the entire Presbyterian family on the historic 180th anniversary, expressing confidence that the church would continue to play a vital role in the spiritual, social and economic development of Cross River State and Nigeria.
Earlier, the Prelate of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria and Moderator of the General Assembly, His Eminence Ekpenyong Akpanika, PhD, described the anniversary as a historic milestone and an opportunity to honour the sacrifices of missionaries, indigenous leaders and faithful members whose commitment laid the foundation for the growth of the church.
Akpanika acknowledged the pioneering roles of the Jamaican missionaries, the Church of Scotland and the visionary Kings of Old Calabar, particularly King Eyo Honesty II and King Eyamba V, whose efforts opened the way for the Presbyterian mission in the region.
He charged the church to preserve its rich spiritual heritage while responding faithfully to changing societal realities, stressing the need for visionary, accountable and sacrificial leadership. He also called for greater investment in discipleship, youth development and missionary work, while urging delegates to embrace constructive reforms that would strengthen the church’s mission.
In a goodwill message, Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, represented by the Rector of Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Aba, Dr. Christopher Kalu Okoro, congratulated the Presbyterian Church on its 180th anniversary and commended its enduring contributions to humanity.
Similarly, the Obong of Calabar, His Eminence Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi-Otu V, lauded the church for its pivotal role in instilling values and transforming lives. He urged members to remain united and committed to the service of God and humanity, while calling on religious, political and traditional leaders to strengthen collaboration for peace, unity and development.
The high point of the celebration was the presentation of awards to Governor Otu, his wife and other eminent personalities in recognition of their significant contributions to the development of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria and the society in general.
By Ukongikwen Adie
