In a landmark election held at the Methodist Church Cathedral in Owerri, the head of the Baptist Conference in Imo State, Rev Dr. Uzoma Uzoechi has emerged the chairman of the Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN).
This significant event marks the first time a Baptist leader assumes the prestigious role of guiding the CCN in the state.
Speaking with journalists immediately after the election, the Chairman of the Electoral College, Barr Oluchukwu Green Ijere Nnabugwu disclosed that CCN holds a distinguished position as the foremost ecumenical body in Nigeria, preceding the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).
In his words, “It is the body coordinating all Orthodox churches in Nigeria, including the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Methodist Church Nigeria, Presbyterian Church Nigeria, AME Zion Church, the Salvation Army among others. CCN is the oldest ecumenical body but when CAN was formed, they became part of CAN, hence it is presently one of the five blocks of CAN”.
He added that the election underscores the importance of collaboration and inclusivity within the religious landscape of Imo State, and stressed that Rev. Dr. Uzoechi and his leadership have a big task of uniting all the big leaders of the church and it’s millions of numbers in the state under one umbrella.
“The challenges ahead are formidable, but with determination, humility, and a steadfast commitment to the organization’s mission, I am certain that Rev. Dr. Uzoechi is poised to lead CCN Imo State Chapter towards a future of greater harmony and cooperation among its member churches”, he affirmed.
Handing over to the newly elected executives after gracefully serving for two tenures, the outgoing chairman, Bishop Godson Ukanwa, PhD, Anglican Bishop of Isi-mbano Diocese, urged them to remain steadfast and dedicated in fostering unity among Orthodox churches in Nigeria, reiterating that a solid foundation has already been laid for them to build upon.
The host, Rt. Rev Jacob O.Onwukwe, Methodist Bishop of Owerri, further noted that Rev. Uzoechi’s ascension to leadership signals a pivotal moment for the CCN in Imo State. He therefore charged the new leadership to transcend individual denominational interests as well as prioritize the collective welfare and spiritual growth of all member churches.
Other dignitaries that graced the historical transition included the head of Presbyterian church in Imo State, (the Moderator) Most Rev. Dr. Thompson Ogbu(PHD) and by the election, he was made the Vice Chairman of CCN, Imo State chapter. All the denominations that made up the great council were also in attendance to ensuring a transparent and credible electoral process.
In his acceptance speech, Rev. Dr. Uzoma Uzoechi expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve as the chairman of CCN Imo State Chapter. He pledged to uphold the principles of servant leadership and work tirelessly towards fostering unity among Orthodox churches in the state. He also promised to preserve the spirit of ecumenicalism which reflects the core values upon which CCN was founded.
Other members of the newly elected executives are Ven. KC Okoronkwo, Secretary; Assistant sec Captain Guios Ezenazie; Mr Rosita Onwuegbulam, Treasurer;
Financial secretary Rev B.C Ozuruigbo
PRO..Mr Moses Uvie Odeghe, Director of Ecumenism, Rev Dr Godwin Adaka; and Rev Emmanuel Okereke as Director Youth, Women and Education.
