•••As Bishop Ihunwo leads Niger Delta North Diocese delegation to Obio/Akpor Council Secretariat ahead of Synod 2026The Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Hon. Dr. Gift Worlu, has called for stronger collaboration between the church and government in addressing Nigeria’s growing social and economic challenges.
Worlu made the call when he received the Bishop of the Diocese of Niger Delta North, Rt Rev. Wisdom Budu Ihunwo, alongside his wife, Dr. Mrs. Mercy Oluchi Wisdom, other clergymen, and members of the Diocese at the Council Secretariat.
The visit was part of activities leading to the 2026 Synod scheduled to hold at St. Peter’s Anglican Church Rumuepirikom Deanery.
Speaking during the courtesy visit, the Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Hon. Dr. Gift Worlu expressed appreciation to the Bishop and his delegation, describing their presence as a privilege. He emphasized that both the church and government must work hand-in-hand to confront pressing societal issues.
Highlighting his administration’s priorities, Gift Worlu underscored the importance of basic education over excessive emphasis on certificates.
“Government owes the people quality basic education—primary and secondary. We must begin to emphasize technical skills, values, and productivity rather than just academic titles,” he stated, warning against what he described as a “false sense of brilliance” in the current education system.
He further advocated long-term financial planning at all levels of government, proposing the creation of a local government sovereign wealth fund through consistent savings to secure future development.
Reaffirming his support for the church, Gift Worlu pledged to attend the upcoming synod and contribute to its success.
In his remarks, Bishop Wisdom Ihunwo congratulated Gift Worlu on his emergence as Chairman and prayed for divine wisdom in leadership, describing governance as a complex responsibilty
The Bishop formally informed the Chairman of the Diocese’s 13th Synod scheduled to hold from May 13 to 17, 2026, at the Rumuepirikom Deanery, with the theme centered on advancing God’s kingdom.
He extended an invitation to Obio/Akpor Chairman, Gift Worlu to participate actively in the synod, emphasizing the importance of spiritual support for leadership.
Bishop Wisdom Ihunwo also highlighted ongoing efforts by the Diocese to establish a secondary school in the Greater Port Harcourt area, noting that the project aims to restore quality moral and academic training reminiscent of mission schools.
The visit concluded with prayers for the Chairman, his administration and the continued peace and development of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area.
Signed:
Goodluck Nsirim
Chief Press Secretary, Obio/Akpor LGA
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
