By Asuquo Cletus, Calabar
The Cross River State Indigenous Gospel Ministers Forum, has held the second edition of the State Thanksgiving Service.
The well-attended which took place on Saturday in Calabar, brings together people from diverse backgrounds to thank God for His grace and blessings upon the State.
The interdenominational service aimed to foster unity among residents, promote a culture of thanksgiving and seek divine intervention for the state’s progress.
Speaking in a sermon, the State Chairman of the Forum Evang. Stephen E. Atukanre said the solemn assembly is put together to seek for forgiveness, atune for sins, and chat a new year in dedication to God, for all he will be doing for the people and the State.
He appreciated God for giving the State Governor, Prince Bassey Otu, the wisdom to run the State in His fears and other leaders for a time like this.
“Today is a solemn assembly to firstly, seek for forgiveness and atune for our sins.
“Secondly, to chat a new year in dedication to God for all we will be doing as a people and a State, bringing before Your Throne, our dear Governor, His Excellency, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, his family, his Administration and the State in general for Your blessings.
“And thirdly to offer sacrifices in thanksgiving for prayers answered and those yet to be requested for that You already know; Oh Let’s Give Thanks To The Lord.
“Today is no day of political talks, but permit me to appreciate our dear Governor, His Excellency, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, in whom God have decided to dwell in, to prosper Cross River State. We thank God for the gift of Prince Otu for giving him the wisdom to run our State in His fears and other leaders for a time like this; were we now sleep with our eyes closed for we enjoy peace, progress and prosperity. “-Evang Stephen said.
He disclosed that that Cross River State is revolutionizing towards food security and self sufficiency.
“Let me without equivocal state that, Cross River is on the part of Agricultural revolution and headed towards food self sufficiency and security.”-He added.
Also speaking, from Psalms 116 vs 18 Apostle Dr. Trinity Ogar emphasized the importance of living a life centered on God’s principles, saying “Let us not live a life that is far from God. Let us continue to seek Him and His righteousness, for it is in Him that we find true peace, progress and prosperity”.
Apostle Trinity encouraged the congregation to prioritize their relationship with God, seeking his guidance and wisdom in all aspects of life, urging congregants to recommit themselves to the faith.
Highlights of the event were prayers, choir performances, testimonies, and attended by top government officials, including Representatives of the Governor, Commissioner of Police, Nigerian Airforce Commander, Nigeria Security Civil Defence Corp, Paramount Ruler of Abi Local Government Area, Religious leaders, amongst others.
