BY IKENNA ORIOHA
The family members of Rev. Dr. Bennett Uchegbulam Enyioha were filled with profound happiness as they celebrated God’s goodness, faithfulness and favour in the life of the former President, Baptist Theological Seminary, Kaduna and Chairman, Nigerian Baptist Convention who retired from active service within the Nigerian Baptist Convention in May 2015 who also marked his 72 years birthday anniversary.
The event which took place on Sunday at Enyioha’s Compound, Obinze, Owerri West local government area, Imo State, saw people from across board gracing it. Live band, hymns, special song renditions by Baptist Church Choir, Ihiagwa and cutting of cake added more spectacular to it.
Identifying Enyioha as a great teacher and worthy leader who devotedly served God in various dignifying capacities within Africa, America, Europe and Asia, President, Nigerian Baptist Convention, Rev. Dr. Israel Akanji, thanked God for the gift of Enyioha to Baptist Church and humanity in general.
According to Akanji, “Enyioha is a committed servant of God who distinguished himself in many ways which I personally witnessed. He directly imparted great divine knowledge in me. Hence, we are here to celebrate an icon while he is alive. A good leader should be humble just as he exemplified himself in all leadership positions he held. The entire Baptist Church is thankful to God for his life and work”.
Praying for God’s continued blessing, guidance and direction for the Enyiohas, President, Imo Baptist Conference, Rev. Uzoma Uzoeshi, wished the family well as they forge ahead in all life endeavors.
While assessing the celebrant as a good uncle, the Interim Management Committee Chairman, Owerri West Council, Hon. Okechukwu Enyioha, mentioned that he has been very supportive to their family in all ramifications, saying his devotion to God’s work has endeared him to greatness and excellence, vowing that he will always accord him due recognition for being a good, peaceful, intelligent kinsman.
Among personalities who graced the occasion were: former Secretary to Imo State Government, Barr. Uche Onyegucha, Chairman, Imo Baptist Conference, Rev. Lucky Okoroafor, Rev. Dr. John Onoje, Senior Pastor, First Baptist Church Owerri, Rev. Dr. Kenneth Enyubara, Rector, Baptist College of Theology, Obinze, who wished the celebrant well, long life, more financial prosperity and divine comfort.
Thanking God for showing him goodness, protection and direction, the celebrant, Rev. Dr. Bennett Uchegbulam Enyioha, noted that from childhood to age 72, God’s grace has continued to uphold him, remarking that the testimony and narrative of God’s goodwill and love also apply to his family even as he specially eulogized his wife for being a good wife and a caring mother. “God loves me so much despite my sin. He has always made ways for me and my family”.
“Therefore, we are gathered here today in a token or symbolic expression of thanksgiving to God for His goodness, answered prayers, favor to Rev. Bennett Uchegbulam Enyioha and family and to all who look up to Him. May God’s name be praised forever and ever. To Him be all the glory, Amen. I appreciate you all for coming from near and far to celebrate with us”, he said.
Enyioha used the opportunity to dedicate his new house as President, Nigerian Baptist Convention, Rev. Dr. Israel Akanji and President, Imo Baptist Conference, Rev. Uzoma Uzoeshi prayed to God to multiply his riches.
The highpoint of the event was an offertory made by attendants and members of the celebrant’s family to support his charitable foundation to helping the needy, the poor and the less privileged children in the society.