The Early Visioner – Papa Sir O. Ekwere Ekanem
As at 1981 before Methodist Church Nigeria arrived the Federal Capital Territory, (Abuja) through Bro O. E. Ekanem, the Abuja Community was occupied by the Gbagys as it was only the Evangelical Church of West Africa (ECWA) and Catholic Church that were known in Abuja and its environs.
However, the Sudan Interior Mission (SIM) came in through Kano from Zaria (Zau Zau) and went through Lafia, Akwanga and Karu. The Sudan Interior Mission (SIM) now known as the Evangelical Church of West Africa had physically advanced especially in the old Garki Village and as such became the first Church in Abuja, the next was the Roman Catholic Church at Karu and St. Kizito in Kuje. It was followed by the Anglican. Both Catholic and Anglican Churches have no Worship Centre like ECWA. Their Priest and Ministers operated from different locations. In retrospect, the principal location was Suleja where they were firmly established and commuted to and from the city.
The Dumex Hall experience at Area 1 was a hall built by Dumex Construction Company as a Canteen for their workers in Area 1, Section 1. On Sundays, the Catholic would gather for Mass at 7:30am – 9:30am, the Anglicans would gather immediately after the Catholic at 10:00am-12:00am. The Labour Transport terminus was built within the premises of their Hall. On weekdays, Church Meetings were held in the Hall.
This continued until later part of 1983 when Catholic moved to thier Permanent Site at Area 3. The Anglican became sole occupants of the Hall until they moved to Wuse Zone 5. According to Papa Ekenam, there was no presence of Methodist and he worshiped with the Anglicans. It was on basis of this challenges that he made up his mind to start a House Fellowship for Methodist Adherent.
Papa Abuja as he was fondly called (now Sir Ekenem), was among the civil servants transferred to the FCT in preparation for the Independence Celebration of 1982 under the leadership of the then President Shehu Shagari. His residence was at Block 10, Flat 11, Area 11, Garki, Abuja.
A former staff of the National Planning Commission, Sir Ekanem was not only a devout Methodist but also a fully accredited Lay Preacher. Inspired by the Holy Spirit, he started a Methodist Fellowship on 16th January 1983 with only nine members in his sitting room at flat 11 block 10 Area 11 Garki Abuja, with his wife and children. That Fellowship later extended to some other Methodist members in Abuja who he personally reached out to. Some of the pioneer members were Co. Bola Ogunsawo (then PSO to late Maj. Gen. Maman Vatsa, Minister of the FCT), Bro. Vincent Asuquo (now a Presbyter), Bro. E. O. Adeyinka (now a Presbyter), Sir and Lady Daniel Okereke, Bro E. Andy (first steward) and Sis. Patricia Ogedengbe (first Property Steward).
When Papa Ekanem’s sitting room could no longer accommodate members, the fellowship venue was later moved to the Old Parade Ground along Festival road, Garki 19 February 1984.
Among the first few members who started this fruitful journey with Pa (Sir) O. E. Ekanem were late Sis. E. Edeke, late Bro. Nwachukwu, Bro. Bob Oguwbike (now a Knight) Sis. Esther Kalu, Sis. Uyim Enyenighi, late Sis. Dorcas Thompson (first Women Fellowship President), late Owoicho and Bro E. Udodong (first Choirmaster) Steward, Sis.Patricia Ogedemgbe (first Property Steward), Bro. I. E. Edeke (late), Bro. S.S. Nwachukwu, Sis.Dorcas Thompson (first Women Fellowship President) Sis. Esther Kalu, Bro. and Sis. Owoicho, Bro Onesimus Egbunu, Bro Bob Ogubuike, Sis. Uyim Akpabio, Bro and Sis. E. Udondong (first Choir Master). Others include Bro. Saviour Udoh, Bro. and Sis. H. Isiguzoro, Sis.H. Okoh, Bro. and Sis. E. Enokela, Sir and Lady Ikenna Ekeledo, Sis. G Moma, Bro. Precious Agwu, Bro. Obike Elijah, Bro and Sis. John Iroha, Bro. Dr. Amba and Bro. Kehinde Adebayo. (Major Rtd)
Our activities at the Parade ground were conflicting with the inconsistency of Government policies. Hence, Sir Bola Ogunsawo worked hard to secure us the present site of the Church at Wuse zone 3, -3,500msq.
MISSIONER 1: Very Rev’d O. U. Usoro. (1984-1985)
The encouraging influx of members made Papa O. E. Ekenem to write the Secretary of Conference for particular appropriate action; this led to the acquisition of land at Wuse Zones 3, through the singular effort of our beloved Bro (Sir) Col. Bola Ogunsamo (rtd).
The Bishop of the North. The RT Rev’d. D. O. Adubi was charged to nurture the new or virgin special Area. This mandate was later shifted to RT Rev’d. B. A. Achigili the Bishop of Benue till 1989 when Conference placed Abuja as a special Area under the S. O. C. the Rt. Revd. A. Abidiodum Omodumbi. In the Annual Conference of MCN at Ilesa in 1983 Very Rev’d. Okon Udo Usoro (now late Archbishop of Calabar) was posted to Abuja as the first Resident Minister.
On 9th January 1984, Very Revd Usoro when sent to Abuja there was no accommodation for him; he stayed in the congested house of Papa Ekenam. The FCDA Administration was yet to consider allocating houses to Religious groups until 1985.
On Sunday 19th Feb. 1984, the Church moved from Papa Ekenam to Parade Ground. The Very Revd O. U. Usoro preached the sermon with 30 members and the offering collected was N20.10k. This was encouraging because the Minister has come. As Enugu Diocese was mandated to provide accommodation for a Minister in Abuja could not be actualized in time, hence Very Revd Usoro could not stay longer.
MISSIONER 1: Very Rev’d O. U. Usoro. (1984-1985)
1.In The annual conference of MCN held at Imo State University Okigwe from 3rd – 10th August 1989 resolved to send a minister to Abuja.
2.At the conference, a nine members Committee for the Methodist Church building at Abuja was created. The Committee was inaugurated on Wednesday 5th July 1989 by the Patriarch then S.C. Mbang. The committee presented its report to the conference which recommended that Abuja be placed under the Patriarch instead of attaching to Benue Diocese or any other Diocese.
3.It was also agreed that individual donation (N1.00) for Abuja is collected yearly throughout the conference area. At the Ifaki conference in 1991, it was resolved that the sum N 1.00 was too small; hence the contribution of N500 per Diocese was approved for the building project in Abuja.
MISSIONER II: Rev’d S.I.O. Agwu. (1985-1989)
In the MCN Conference held in 1985, Very Rev. S. I. O. Agwu was posted to Abuja to replace Very Revd Usoro. In the same year, the Federal Capital Territory Administration allocated a 3-bedroom flat at Ikot Abasi close in Area 11 Garki to the Methodist Church Nigeria, Abuja. The Abuja Circuit as it was then furnished the apartment for Rev. Agwu to move into.
Determined to make a great impact Rev’d S. I. O. Agwu embarked on an aggressive Church planting with the likes of Bro Vincent Asuquo then a NITEL Engineer and Bro. E.O. Adeyinka a staff of Federal Ministry Internal Affairs. The two gentlemen were his assistants. Lady Okereke and her husband Sir. Dan Okereke, Sir. Arc. I. K. Ekeledo and his late wife Lady Grace Ekeledo were equally handy with funds.
When Rev’d Agwu took over from Usoro at the Parade Ground Pavilion F, an event saddening though stimulating to remember in 1986; a National Event Independent Celebration of 1986 was to take place at the Parade Ground and Julius Berger Construction Company was commissioned to upgrade, the ground for the celebration and before the sunshine our particular place of worship was dismantled.
That challenging development forced out all Churches worshiping at the parade ground out, we had no option than to worship under a tree and had our Holy Communion there near the Fire Service at Area 10.
This singular event forced the small Methodist Assembly out of Garki District to Wuse District where a batcher was hurriedly put in the present land secured for us by Col. Ogunsumo the principal staff officer (PSO) to the then late Major Gen. Mamman Vasta.The land measuring 3,500ms was indeed a milestone achievement that fast-tracked the gathering of the Methodist Faithfuls.
Rev’d S. I. O. Agwu who came from the East with Honda Motor –cycle was criss-crossing the length and breadth of the territory under sun, dust and rain to preach sermons putting theological training to work we were inspired to open up more preaching stations such as Bwari, Suleja, Karmo, Kubwa and so on.
Among his achievements were the buildings of the 5BedRoom Duplex on the existing land with the supervision of Sir.Arc. I. K. Ekeledo and Sir.Arc. Ndubuisi Onwudike. However there was a serious challenge in completion of the Manse in terms of funding.
In 1986 as Catholic, Anglicans, Methodist and other Churches were beginning to clamour for space and members an event within the Catholic Pro-Cathedral end of the year Bazaar Harvest our Revd Agwu was invited, he could not attend but sent Bro. Vincent Asuquo to represent him. In our Local Church Meeting of January 20th 1987. Bro Asuquo reported on how Catholic Church was raising much money, the leaders present debated on ideas of harvest Bazaar. On the idea of beginning Harvest with Bazaar like Catholic, as we were very few at Wuse, we opted to revive the class meeting. After few months the arrangement collapsed.
Efforts were made by nearly all Ministers posted to Abuja on the need to continue with the Class Meeting system but to no avail. In 1986, it was observed that the manner at which Catholic Church raised funds to support Church buildings and other projects was through the establishment of groups (Church Societies) and in order to emancipate the Methodist Church members effectively, Bro Vincent Asuquo suggested that there was need to group the few members of the Church into Societies.
Since the Methodist Church members were already familiar with the class meeting, Rev. S.I.O. Agwu agreed with the idea and later proposed it to the Leaders Meeting that was scheduled for Snr. Society steward’s residence (Bro. E. Andy). Leaders kicked against it at the first instance. Through further contacts and consultation even to the then Bishop of the North, Rt. Rev.B. A. Achigili who had an Episcopal oversight to Abuja Special Area before it was approved.
However, the second Leaders Meeting held at Major K. Adebayo’s residence in March 1987 ratified the idea of forming Societies in the Church at Wuse. Names for Societies were sought and the first set Societies were:
- Wesley Guild
- Trinity Band
- Men’s Christian League
Today, the Church has gone beyond these groups to further establish other groups such as; Fountain of Hope, Ladies Progressive, Christian Sisters, Ambassadors for Christ. Along with these self-sustaining societies are the Church own established groups, example. Men’s Fellowship, Women’s Fellowship, Youth Fellowship, Methodist Evangelical Movement, Girls Fellowship, Boys Brigade, Choir, Drama Group, Praise Team, Ushering Department and so on.
In summary, the major roles of Societies in the Church particularly at the Cathderal of Unity are;
a)To help the Priest when the Congregation has grown large
b)To bring the laymen closer to themselves for better care and attention.
c)The societies in our Cathedral have indeed been the pillars of the Church growth and development in terms of physical structures and equipment.
d) It serves to correct an erring member and restore the backsliding ones.
e)It serves also as a means to promote healthy competition amongst believers who are spiritually gifted.
MISSIONER III: Rev S. Onadipe assumed duty as a Deacon.
He took over from Agwu as a result of non-resumption of Very Rev. S. Olu Alaran who was on official assignment to Gambia. Revd. Onadipe took over Abuja Circuit as Priest in-charge. In a few months of his stay, he made great impact with the few members of Methodist Evangelical Movement to nurture all 15 Churches planted. He travelled as much as he could with the Lay Member of MEM and was later redeployed after a successful spiritual impact in 1991. Rev’d. Sunday Onadipe was redeployed to Suleja Church.
MISSIONER IV: VERY REVD S. OLU ALARAN (1991-1993).
He assumed duty to begin his missionary work with existing structure of about 18 Churches fostered. He began to put finishing touches to the duplex manse in waiting for a possible posting of a Bishop. He was a man of sound administration and doctrinal skill. He had a great deal of human persuasion and motivation beyond boundaries. He presided over the 9 year old preacher that stormed Abuja though he was physically frightened when he saw men and women falling under the anointing without any hand laid on them.
He was a highly fulfilled Presbyter of Abuja Circuit. He was later made a Bishop of Ikorodu and Archbishop of Ilesa where God called him home to rest.
THE MAKING OF THE DIOCESE OF ABUJA
At the Methodist Church Nigeria Conference held in Abeokuta Ogun State in 1992, Abuja Special Area consisting only one Circuit Wuse Circuit was accorded a Diocesan status. Rt Rev. S. Ola Makinde became the first Bishop of the Diocese. The Diocese was inaugurated in January 1994 by the Prelate Emeritus, Dr. Sunday Coffi Mbang. It was a diocese of one circuit with four Ministers to nurture it. The new Diocese was the first Methodist denomination in the Federal Capital Territory (F.C.T.).
The Bishop was faced with myriads of challenges such as his personal and family’s welfare/ accommodation. A selfless man that he is, he had mattresses brought in by church members. He ensured that the foundation of the Cathedral Building was laid by the Prelate Emeritus as his first major assignment on assumption of duties in1993.
He went further to look for a landed property which was acquired for further development of the Diocese. His spiritual development of the Diocese had no bounds. His faith in the Lord had no limit. He demonstrated this during the Lenten services, where he conducted Holy Communion in the open, at the spot where the altar is now located. This step of faith manifested in positive result almost immediately after the Lenten season as the construction of the church building progressed at a very fast rate.
THE HISTORY OF THE CHURCH BUILDING
The achievement in the Diocese within the first five years of his leadership in the Diocese of Abuja was immeasurable as new churches were built within the FCT with more members joining the Church and Methodist Church became a choice denomination within the FCT Christendom. With the creation of Abuja Diocese in 1993 and after inauguration in January 1994, it became very urgent to have a befitting cathedral.
To achieve this goal, the conference of Methodist Church Nigeria set up Abuja Cathedral Building Committee headed by Chief Dr. Oluwasola Coker and was charged with the responsibility of building the Abuja Methodist Cathedral of Unity. The architectural plan of the Cathedral had already been drawn by Arc. Ikenna Ekeledo. The foundation of the Cathedral was laid by the then Prelate Methodist Church Nigeria, His Emeritus Dr. Sunday Coffi Mbang in 1993.
The Methodist Cathedral Diocese Building Committee of the Cathedral which had earlier been inaugurated by the Diocesan Bishop Rt.Rev. (Now Prelate Emeritus). Dr. Sunday Olatunji Makinde was mandated to supervise the work through direct labour. The Diocesan Quantity Surveyor Bro. Boye Oyewande, now Knight of John Wesley, quantified the job and the Diocesan Cathedral Building Committee was chaired by Bro. Emmanuel Nduonofit of blessed memory. Vice Chairman was Bro. Kehinde Adebayo, Bro. Micheal O. Babatunde was the Treasurer and Bro. Ekwere F Ekwere was Secretary.
Other members of the committee were Bro. Ikenna K. Ekeledo, Bro Boye Oyewande and Barr. A Egbatehinmiro of blessed memory, Ambassador A Emenyi of blessed memory, Rev. Vincent Asuquo (now Very Rev.), Sis Ify Nwaji, Very Rev. I. Soyege(deceased), iyabo E Coker, Rev. E.O.Adeyinka (now Very Rev.), Bro O. Okeagu, Bro. E. Ugo, Dame Kate Okon and Bro Musgrave (a Briton).
The Diocesan Building Committee and the Conference Committee worked together assiduously to ensure that a good job was done. The Abuja Cathedral members took the bull by the horn and ensured that enough money was contributed to prosecute the building project. Proceeds from the Primary and Nursery Schools coupled with a Conference authorized contribution of N1.00 (One naira) each by every Methodist nationwide ensured that sufficient funds were on ground to make good progress in the project.
On 20th October 1998, then Sir Etim Inyang led Conference Abuja Cathedral Building Committee was inaugurated with the mandate to ensure the completion of the Abuja Cathedral. His Vice Chairman was Sir Emeka Omeruah of blessed memory, while Mr. John A. Brown was the Secretary. Mr. John Brown visited Abuja several times and was always liaising with the Diocesan Building Committee to ensure that the Conference standard was maintained. Saturday, May 3rd 2003 was the day the Lord set aside for the dedication of the Cathedral Church built at a cost of about N50,000,000.00 (Fifty Million Naira) .
The building was Christened “Cathedral of Unity” to reflect the spirit of national unison with which the funds for erecting the building was generated. Very important dignitaries attended the dedication which was performed by the Prelate Emeritus, His Eminence Dr. Sunday Coffie Mbang on 3rd May 2003. This included the then Methodist Arch-Bishop of Abuja, Dr. Sunday Ola Makinde, the then Secretary of Conference, Bishop (now Most Rev.) Kehinde Stephen, other Methodist Arch-Bishops and Bishops. The Conference Committee of Abuja Building Project, Sir Etim Inyang was unavoidably absent. The old Abuja Diocese used to comprise of the following Circuits; Wuse Cathedral, Suleja, Nyanya, Kubwa, Lokoja, Gwagwalada, karmo, Minna, Gwarimpa, Trinity, The Diocese became an Arch-Diocese(Special) on 24th January,1999.
THE MAKING OF THE ARCHDIOCESE OF ABUJA
To enhance the status of the Diocese in the Christian’s Community in Abuja, the 1998 Conference of Methodist Church Nigeria elevated the Diocese to Archdiocese, which was inaugurated on January 24th 1999. It’s hard working Bishop. Rt. Revd (Dr. S. Ola Makinde was elevated and translated as the first Archbishop.
The churches in Minna and Lokoja later joined the Diocese and later became sections. Suleja and Nyanya section also were elevated to become circuits in 2000 and 2001 respectively.
The REMODELLING OF THE CATHEDRAL
The Cathedral Of Unity Before Renovation
The idea to renovate and remodel the Cathedral Building was envisioned in his era by a sister with a clear vision and love for building magnificient edifices for the service of God, Lady (Barr.) Offon Akpabio.
Between 2003 and 2021, the Cathedral Building served the Congregation for 18 years, with attendant stress and strain occasioned by multiplicity of members leading to overstretching of the existing facility. Many new Circuits and Two Diocese were created to de-populate the Centre and widen the spread of the Church Frontiers.
Consequently, approval was sought by the Harvest Committee 2021-2023 and approved The Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Oche Job, to renovate, remodel and restructure the internal and external design of the Cathedral Building. Further consultation was made to His Eminence, Dr. Samuel Uche for consent. This process was unanimously endorsed.
This was in line with the vision and agend of the incumbent Presbyter and Cathedral Administrator, Very Rev’d. Nosa Nosayaba who at his induction service message stated this policy thrust to include a desire to renovate the Cathedral Building and enhance the facility of Worship among others visionaries. The Cathderal Church has been endowed with notable and noble women of substance to drive the vision project of the Church in recent past.
i. Dame Ekanem Bassey became the Chairperson of Cathedral Harvest Committee and performed excellently well in the raising fund for the acquisition of a large parcel of land at Jahi for the Church investment project.
ii. Yet another noble Knight Dame Yewande Usman took over as a Chairperson of the Cathedral Harvest Committee. Her six year tenure witnessed tremendous income turn-over for the Church. The Church through her collective mobilization effort raised so much funds to acquire two 2 Bedroom flat and some shops for the benefits of the Church.
iii. And now the big one, our Noble Lady Mrs. Offonbuk Charles Akpabio, of immense dignity and profound large heart for God was appointed to actualized the dream of re-modeling the Cathedral Building. On Inauguration of the Harvest Committee 2021-2023, she mobilized her Committee Members with a clear mandate to drive the vision into a mission for accomplishment.
Various creative fund raising strategies were adopted ranging from encouraging Members to contribute generously, she put her extensive social networks in Government Corporate Nigeria and beyond, behind the project and millions of Naira was generated to aid quick completion of the project which was started and competed at a record breaking time of five months.
Lady Akpabio, organised the first ever interfaith Roundtable on Building a Culture of peace, in our country. The great event, Chaired by Lt General Azubuike Iherjirika. (Rtd) CFR, was held on the 9th of October, 2021 at Transcorp Hilton with the Prelate.
His Eminence, Samuel Chukwuemeka Uche, Arch-Bishop Joseph Oche Job and many to Government Functionaries, Politicians, Legislators, Military Brass, Leaders of thought, Industry Captains and Traditional Rulers led by the revered Emir of Bichi, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Nasir Ado Bayero, in attendance.
The Keynote address was delivered by Bishop Sunday Onuoha, President Vision African and Co-Chair Interfaith Dialogue Forum for peace, while Sheik Haliru Abdullahi Maraya, Northern Coordinator Global Peace Foundation Nigeria, Fr. Prof. Cornelius Omonokhua, Executive Secretary Nigeria Inter-Religious Council, AVM Ibrahim Shaffi, Partner Olaniwon Ajayi LP, Prof (Mrs. Felicia Etim, served as panel discussants.
The historic event put our Church on the National map permanently and gave the Building Project a heavy boost, as huge amount of money was raised to support the Cathedral Remodeling Project.
The Prelate, His Eminence Dr. S. C. K. Uche and His Grace Arch-Bishop J.O. Job gave their express approval for the renovation work to begin aggressive remodeling work kicked off by mid February, 2022. The Harvest Committee and worked with a Technical Committee headed by the Chief Project Supervisor Arch Ugo Onwuka to fulfill the task at hand Day and Night they toiled with attendant inconveniences to the worshippers. On Sunday 3rd July, 2022, the remodeled Cathedral was Re-Dedicated by the Prelate, His Eminence, Dr. S.C.K. Uche and is currently in good condition.
The Remodelled Cathedral Of Unity
PAST ARCHBISHOPS AND THEIR ACHEIVEMENTS
Haven been a Diocese for the past 30 years, we have been led and guided by by a succession of visionary Archbishops, each leaving their mark on the spiritual and physical landscape of the church. In their section, we shall explore their contributions to the Methodist Cathedral of Unity.
Rt. Rev. Dr. S. Ola Makinde –Arch-Bishop (1993-2003) (now Prelate Emeritus, Methodist Church Nigeria)
1. Establishment of Wesley Nursery/Primary School at Wuse Zone 3. It started with 4-11 pupils in 1995 and has a population of 800 pupils.
2. Acquisition of funds for the building of churches in many satellite locations of the FCT, such as Kado, Idu, Asopada, Gwarimpa, Nyanya (Christ) Nyanya (Wesley), Apo, Lugbe, AMAC etc.
3. Acquisition of hectares of land for a proposed secondary school at Gwagwalada/Kwali axis.
4. Completion of the cathedral building project, whose foundation was laid on the 23rd of October 1993, dedicated by the Prelate His Eminence (DR.) Sunday Mbang on the 3rd May 2003.
5. The Diocese in 1994 was elevated to Arch-Diocese in January 1999.
6. Inducted its second Batch of 12 Lay Preachers in 2000.
7. Ordained its first Batch of Tent-Making Ministers: REV. V. E. Asuquo, Rev. E.O. Adeyinka, Dec. Nwachukwu, Dec. Soyege, and Rev. Ikanga.
8. Lokoja Section in Kogi State joined the Arch-diocese of Abuja.
9. Minna Section in Niger State joined the Arch-Diocese of Abuja.
10. Acquired a 60KVA generator set for the Cathedral through Wesley Guild Society.
11. Acquired two 16-seater buses: one bought and another donated by the Trinity Band Society.
12. Created two additional Circuits and two additional Sections: Nyanya Circuit, Suleja Circuit, Karmo Section, and Kubwa Section.
13. Two of its Ministers became Bishops: Rev. Oliver Abbah (APA Diocese) and Very Rev. E. O. Udofia (Bishop of Uyo).
14. Maintained the Chairmanship of Christian Association of Nigeria FCT (1996-2003).
15. Recommended and confirmed different levels of awards to its outstanding members (see list of beneficiaries).
16. Approved scholarship awards to the children of the late (Mrs.) Dr. Nkere and many more such children.
17. Promoted long-serving Ministers as Presbyters: Rev. Chindo I. K. and Rev. I. Y. Chiroma (Suleja and Nyanya Circuits) respectively.
18. The Bishop’s House at Gwarimpa district was completed with a borehole.
19. Formation of more Societies in the cathedral, which have been the tools for fast physical development of the Arch-Diocese (from 3 to 7 Societies).
20. Introduction of compulsory fasting and prayers every 1st - 3rd of every month in the Arch-Diocese, which helped in averting untimely death of members then.
His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Ebere Nze (2003 -2007)
1. On Assumption of duty, he inducted three Presbyters which are:
i. Very Revd. I. Y. Chiroma of Suleja Circuit
ii. Very Revd. U. U. Nmeregini of Nyanya Circuit
iii. Very Revd. B. A. Taiwo of Wuse Circuit
2. He undertook official visits to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Olusegun Obasanjo, the Director General of NTA, Dr. Tony Iredia, and Dr. Eddy Iroh of the Federal Radio Corporation.
3. In January 2004, he conducted a leadership seminar for all levels of Church Leadership in the Archdiocese.
4. He established an Evangelistic Task Force for church planting.
5. He presided over the 10th Synod, where he proclaimed, "Others have planted, let us water and add solid blocks on the foundation that has been laid."
6. He mandated that each Circuit plant at least two churches every year.
7. He inaugurated the following sections into Circuits:
- a) Kubwa Section
- b) Karmo Section
- c) Lokoja Section
- d) Minna Section
These actions were undertaken in preparation for the Creation of a Diocese.
8. He also worked to open the Wesley Medical Clinic within the Church premises in partnership with Zankli Hospital led by the late Professor Loveth Lawson.
His Grace Most Rev'd Chimaroke Iweha (2007 - 2013)
The Rt. Rev. Chimaroke Iweha was consecrated and invested Archbishop at the Service of Consecration of Bishops which took place at the Methodist Church of the Tinubu, Lagos on Sunday 11th November, 2007. His Service of Enthronment as the Bishop and the Arch-Bishop of Abuja, Arch-Diocese took place at the Cathedral of Unity Wuse, Abuja on 3rd February, 2008 while the Lay President of the Arch-Diocese, Barr. Samuel Osahon was presented at the same service which was conducted by the Prelate Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence Dr. Sunday Olatunji Makinde.
Two other Lay Presidents worked with this visionary leader namely: Sir O.J Solowale (who died after only one year in office) and Sir David Olatunji Fadairo took over and served till 2022. His other notable achievements are as listed below:
1. He hosted and celebrated the 25th Anniversary (Silver Jubilee) of Methodism in Abuja on September 21st, 2009, with several awards presented. During this celebration, Senator Bassey Ewa Henshaw's Committee raised ₦50 million for the creation of two Dioceses.
2. In 2011, he played a key role in the creation of the Diocese of Nyanya, with Very Revd. Solomon A. Adegbite (Presbyter of Cathedral) Abuja serving as the pioneer Bishop.
3. He further spearheaded efforts to establish the Kubwa Diocese in 2012. Once again, Very Revd. S.A. Adegbite played a crucial role in providing the foundation for this new Diocese.
4. Under his leadership, the Wesley Estate Land was acquired and made available for sale to church members. This project was overseen by a board of directors led by Very Revd. S. A. Adegbite and supervised by His Grace Most Revd. C. A. Iweha. Sir Arc. Chinedu Eke served as Chairman, Evang. E. A. Omoware as Coordinator, and Very Rev'd E. O. Adeyinka as a member.
5. He recommended the promotion of deserving ministers: Revd. Victor Agor and Revd. I. C. Nwade to Presbytership (2012) and Revd. Vincent Asuquo and Revd. E. O. Adeyakan to Presbytership (2013).
6. During the 25th Anniversary celebration, he recognized and awarded deserving members with the distinction of "Friend of the Church."
7. He led the Archdiocese to participate in the 170th/50th Anniversary celebration of Methodism in Nigeria held in Lagos. The Archdiocese achieved a commendable third position in the singing competition.
His Grace Most Rev'd Chimaroke Iweha (2007 - 2013)
The Rt. Rev. Chimaroke Iweha was consecrated and invested Archbishop at the Service of Consecration of Bishops which took place at the Methodist Church of the Tinubu, Lagos on Sunday 11th November, 2007. His Service of Enthronment as the Bishop and the Arch-Bishop of Abuja, Arch-Diocese took place at the Cathedral of Unity Wuse, Abuja on 3rd February, 2008 while the Lay President of the Arch-Diocese, Barr. Samuel Osahon was presented at the same service which was conducted by the Prelate Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence Dr. Sunday Olatunji Makinde.
Two other Lay Presidents worked with this visionary leader namely: Sir O.J Solowale (who died after only one year in office) and Sir David Olatunji Fadairo took over and served till 2022. His other notable achievements are as listed below:
1. He hosted and celebrated the 25th Anniversary (Silver Jubilee) of Methodism in Abuja on September 21st, 2009, with several awards presented. During this celebration, Senator Bassey Ewa Henshaw's Committee raised ₦50 million for the creation of two Dioceses.
2. In 2011, he played a key role in the creation of the Diocese of Nyanya, with Very Revd. Solomon A. Adegbite (Presbyter of Cathedral) Abuja serving as the pioneer Bishop.
3. He further spearheaded efforts to establish the Kubwa Diocese in 2012. Once again, Very Revd. S.A. Adegbite played a crucial role in providing the foundation for this new Diocese.
4. Under his leadership, the Wesley Estate Land was acquired and made available for sale to church members. This project was overseen by a board of directors led by Very Revd. S. A. Adegbite and supervised by His Grace Most Revd. C. A. Iweha. Sir Arc. Chinedu Eke served as Chairman, Evang. E. A. Omoware as Coordinator, and Very Rev'd E. O. Adeyinka as a member.
5. He recommended the promotion of deserving ministers: Revd. Victor Agor and Revd. I. C. Nwade to Presbytership (2012) and Revd. Vincent Asuquo and Revd. E. O. Adeyakan to Presbytership (2013).
6. During the 25th Anniversary celebration, he recognized and awarded deserving members with the distinction of "Friend of the Church."
7. He led the Archdiocese to participate in the 170th/50th Anniversary celebration of Methodism in Nigeria held in Lagos. The Archdiocese achieved a commendable third position in the singing competition.
His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Oche Job (2014-2022)
The Era of His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Oche Job (2014-2022) was an embodiment of spiritual activism. Through his drive and exemplary Leadership style, He punctuated his excellent human relationship with UFUK International Fellowship an Islamic outfit set to practice the love of God on contemporary matters of the hetoregenous worshipping community.
1. Upon arriving in Abuja on September 1st, 2013, he initiated the establishment of Methodist College, Abuja AMAC, located along Airport Road.
2. He launched the Ufuk Dialogue initiative and participated as a member. Through this platform, he secured scholarships for seven members of the Methodist family to pursue postgraduate studies and Master's degrees.
3. Over the past nine years, he successfully nominated 32 members for Knighthood Awards, all of which were promptly approved by the Conference.
4. He actively encouraged young men and women to enter the ministry by offering substantial scholarship support from his Archbishop's office.
5. Preaching posts in Kontagora, Mokwa, Bida, Abaji, and Itobe (Kogi State) inherited during his tenure received a boost in funding.
6. He hosted a Catholic/Methodist Ecumenical Conference, with the Prelate presiding over the event.
7. He served as host for the Methodist Discipleship and Evangelism Regional Conference.
8. He facilitated the acquisition of two new vehicles: a Jeep and a Sienna car.
9. He oversaw the remodeling of the Cathedral building after 19 years.
10. In 2022, His Grace, Most Rev. Joseph Oche Job (JP) promoted/preferred twelve of his pastoral staff members from the rank of canonical priesthood to Presbytership. These include:
- a. Very Rev. Dapo Gbadamosi
- b. Very Rev. Rufus Ampitan
- c. Very Rev. Darlington Ani
- d. Very Rev. Mirabel Daniel
- e. Very Rev. Simon Oyigwu
- f. Very Rev. Goodseed Ekeleme
- g. Very Rev. Amaka Ani
- h. Very Rev. Olabisi Daini
- i. Very Rev. Samuel Oloche
- j. Very Rev. Job Agbo
- k. Very Rev Marcus Onuoha
- l. Very Rev. Engr. Egbo
11. A handing-over service was held on January 15th, 2019, for the Lokoja Circuit, which was previously under the Abuja Diocese. Rt. Rev. Jacob Bamidele Ibikunle, Bishop of Okun, assumed control from His Grace, Most Rev. (Dr) J. Oche Job.
12. In 2019, Rev. Iyabode Soyege was elevated to the rank of Presbyter (now Very Rev. Iyabode Soyege) and appointed as the Diocesan Women Fellowship Coordinator. (Please note: She is now deceased.)
His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Michael O. Akinwale (2023 - Present)
He is an Evangelist to the core; a public Motivational Speaker; a seasoned Educationist; a seasoned Administration. He has an outstanding passion for the Kingdom. He believes in internalized spirituality which is the strength of a verile Church.
He strongly believes in the philosophical dogma which states that leadership is a component of character and strategy and if you must do away with one do away with strategy and not character. This has trailed his style of administration within the last 39 years of his ministry. He is diligent, tireless and a fearless Preacher who believes in the whole truth and nothing but the truth.
His Achievements in the Methodist Cathedral of Unity So Far will be compiled and uploaded soon. In the mean time, read more about his past achievents hereCathedral Administrators (1983 - Present)
Very Rev’d. O. U. Usoro: 1984 – 1985
Rev’d. S. I. O. Agwu, 1985 – 1989
He planted many Churches using the people like Bro Vincent Asuquo, Surveyor Dan. Okereke & the wife, Arc. Ekeledo & the wife,Bro Emmanuel Adeyinka, Late Major K. Adebayo, Bro E. Okon (Life camp FCDA) and Bro E. Andy(1st Steward). At the most critical point, he led the Church to relocate from Parade Ground to a Make – shift building at zone 3, Wuse this permanent site acquired for the Church by the PSO to late Major General Mamman Vatsa, Col. Ogunsanwo (Rtd).
He eventually mobilized a few members to build the 5 room’s Duplex as Manse for an expected Bishop. He assisted in planting many Churches. Revd.S.I.O. Agwu left for further studies at the University of Calabar. Before now a 3-Bedroom apartment at Ikot Abasi close, flat 16, Garki Area 11, has been given to Methodist Church Nigeria by FCDA.
Rev’d S. O. Onadipe 1989-1991
Very Rev’d. S. Olu Alaran 1991-1993
Baba Alaran arrived from Gambia and was well received by Revd Onadipe and Church leaders he moved straight to complete the 5 bedroom manse started by Revd. S. I. O Agwu. Very Revd. S. Olu Alaran was an exemplary, Visionary leader with a high sense of care and humane Pastoral visitation. He grouped the local Churches into Sections. He was a man of great sense of humour and honour.