As we celebrate five years of the impactful leadership of the Most Reverend Henry Chukudum Ndukuba at the apex of the Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion, it’s apt to reflect on a remarkable tenure that has not only revitalized the Church but has also inspired countless lives across the nation and abroad.
His journey to the zenith of the church commenced on March 20, 2020, amidst the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, what could have been a moment of despair transformed into an opportunity for divine intervention, as he came in, in a low-key inaugural service at the Cathedral Church of the Advent, Life Camp, Gwarinpa, Abuja, with faith and determination.
Primate Ndukuba’s first television interview on Advent Cable Network Nigeria Television (ACNNTV) on May 1, 2020, set the stage for a revolutionary agenda he aptly titled “The Decade of the Rule of God.” This bold declaration was not a mere slogan; it was a rallying cry for a renewed commitment to living out the teachings of Christ and transforming society. As soon as he came out of the Cathedral that day, I, as one of the worshippers, could see a reinvigorated Ndukuba hitting the ground running.
In my published article on 20 September, 2020, I emphasized how Primate Ndukuba would be committed to Church of Nigeria’s transformative evangelical revival over the next decade. This initiative is to equip church members to lead lives that not only please God but also actively engage in the world around them.
I further underscored the fact that he envisions a community of intentional disciples of Jesus Christ, empowered to combat social vices and embody the teachings of the Gospel in every aspect of life.
I further wrote: “Primate Ndukuba’s passion for this mission is infectious. He recognizes that the call to action has been given to all Christians, yet many have settled into complacency, focusing solely on personal survival. He boldly declared during his inauguration that his ten-year mandate would be “a decade of God’s reign,” emphasizing the urgent need for a reawakening of faith, evangelism, and discipleship. His clarion call during the eleventh synod of the Diocese of Abuja in July resonated deeply: the Church must prepare for a revival that transforms families, communities, and every sector of national life.”
And truly, Primate Ndukuba has not just talked the talk; he has walked the talk with energetic fervor, leading an unprecedented wave of gospel outreach that has ignited passion across every diocese in Nigeria. His accomplishments to date are not mere statistics; they represent lives changed and communities uplifted.
Here are just a few highlights:
- Youth Empowerment: The Joshua Generation International Youth Conference (JGIYC) has become a beacon of hope, reversing youth attrition from the Anglican Church. The creation of the Anglican Football Team, Music Team, Drama and Movie Team, and the National Youth Mission’s N5 Billion Investment Fund demonstrate a commitment to engaging and uplifting the next generation.
- Church Growth and Evangelism: Ndukuba has prioritized evangelism with fervor, leading to remarkable growth. During his time as Bishop of Gombe, the diocese expanded from 18 to over 150 churches, a testament to his dedication to spreading the Gospel and nurturing new faith communities.
- Social Responsibility through ACADI: The Anglican Compassionate and Development Initiative (ACADI) has launched impactful projects like NAWADA2, CHE, and GBV prevention, exemplifying the Church’s commitment to addressing pressing social issues.
- Innovative Liturgical Resources: As chairman of the Liturgy and Spirituality Committee, Ndukuba has ensured the continuous production of vital church materials, fostering spiritual growth and enhancing worship experiences across the Communion.
- Inclusive Bible Translation: Collaborating with organizations like the Nigeria Bible Translation Trust, he has made the scriptures accessible to diverse linguistic groups, ensuring that the message of Christ reaches every corner of society.
- Global Outreach through CONNAM: Under his guidance, the Church of Nigeria established the Church of Nigeria North American Mission (CONNAM), expanding its influence and providing a vital Anglican presence in the U.S. and Canada.
- Advocacy for Good Governance: Primate Ndukuba has been a steadfast advocate for ethical leadership and social justice, addressing the critical issues of corruption and underdevelopment that plague our nation.
His unwavering commitment to evangelization was powerfully articulated during his recent address to delegates at the biannual Standing Committee in Port Harcourt. He emphasized that living for God is about “calling and walking with God,” and he challenged believers to embody the character of Christ and spread the Gospel to every corner of the globe.
Moreover, Primate Ndukuba’s vision extends to education and human development. The forthcoming Church of Nigeria Education Policy, spearheaded by Professor Olugbemiro Jegede, promises to elevate educational standards, while the Church of Nigeria University of Technology in Kweita is set to launch within the next 18 months, marking a significant milestone in our commitment to education.
The Church of Nigeria Conference Centre, once completed, will serve as a hub for major conferences, further solidifying our role as a leader in both faith and community engagement. Additionally, the Church’s Health and Medical Mission is being revitalized to ensure comprehensive healthcare for members, alongside a dedicated Healing Ministry.
In summary, the last five years under Primate Ndukuba’s visionary leadership have been nothing short of transformative. The Church of Nigeria is not merely surviving; it is thriving, spreading the Gospel like wildfire and making a profound impact in the lives of countless individuals. As we look to the future, let us unite in prayer and action, championing the mission of Christ and embracing the incredible journey ahead. Together, we can ensure that this decade truly becomes a testament to the reign of God in our lives and communities.
