Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has commissioned a newly built ultra-modern Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church building at Umuehim-Nvosi in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area of the state.
The commissioning ceremony was held on Saturday, September 19, 2026, with Governor Otti commending members of the church for their collective efforts and commitment towards completing the project.
The church building was constructed through contributions from Governor Otti and members of the SDA Church, Umuehim-Nvosi, both within Nigeria and in the diaspora.
Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Otti urged the church leadership and members to properly maintain the new edifice and preserve it for the glory of God and the benefit of future generations.
He also encouraged the congregation to continue promoting faith, unity and service to humanity.
Earlier in his sermon, the President of the Aba North Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Pastor Henry Emeka Nwankwo, challenged members to see the dedication of the new building as an opportunity for personal transformation.
Speaking on the topic, “Old People in the New Church Building, How Will You Cope?”, and drawing from Psalm 92:13-14 and Ephesians 4:22, Pastor Nwankwo said the new church building should represent more than a physical change.
He urged worshippers to abandon behaviours associated with their former lives and embrace renewed hearts, attitudes and commitment to Christian values.
The cleric specifically cautioned members against backbiting, quarrelling and other actions capable of creating division within the congregation.
He also called on members to appreciate the sacrifices made by individuals who contributed to the construction of the church by living lives that would justify the investment.
Pastor Nwankwo commended Governor Otti and his wife, Mrs. Priscilla Chidinma Otti, for their contributions to the project and prayed for God’s blessings upon them.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the offering of prayers for Governor Otti and members of his cabinet, seeking God’s protection and favour, including in connection with the governor’s re-election bid.
Governor Otti was accompanied by the First Lady of Abia State, Mrs. Priscilla C. Otti; Labour Party Senatorial candidate, Senator Darlington Nwokeocha; Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Hon. Ikechukwu Monday; SA on Media and Publicity, Hon. Ferdinand Ekeoha; SSA Transport, Dr. Obioma Nwaogbe; SA on Investment Promotion, High Chief Green Amakwe; Director-General, Bureau of Public Communication, Bar. Onyebuchi Ememanka, among other government officials.
The ceremony brought together church leaders, worshippers, government officials and members of the Umuehim-Nvosi community to celebrate the completion and dedication of the new church edifice.
