The United Church of Christ (UCC) has inaugurated Apostle Chimaobi Egbo as its new Bishop and General Overseer, with church leaders calling for spiritual renewal, unity, evangelism and greater Christian participation in nation-building.
The colourful ceremony, held at the Faith Cathedral, Fountain of Peace, Enugu, attracted worshippers, clerics, political leaders and dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond. The event was presided over by the Presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), .
In his charge, Bishop Okonkwo urged the new church leader to remain faithful to his divine calling, uphold integrity and resist undue external influence, stressing that Christian leaders must shine as examples of righteousness and excellence in society.
In his inaugural address, pledged to restore unity, love, trust and spiritual discipline within the church, describing his emergence as a divine assignment aimed at rebuilding and strengthening the ministry.
He unveiled an ambitious vision to expand the church’s global outreach and win one billion souls for Christ by the year 2035 through evangelism, discipleship, revival and strategic engagement.
The new bishop also pledged to promote peace within the church, support widows and strengthen transparency, accountability and uniformity in church administration worldwide.
Church leaders and guests at the event charged him to uphold the legacy of the church’s founder, the late Apostle Samuel Egbo, while prioritising the welfare of church workers and maintaining sound spiritual leadership.
Speaking on national issues, Bishop Okonkwo urged Nigerians to make informed electoral choices ahead of the 2027 elections, emphasizing the need to prioritize competence, integrity and capacity over ethnic or religious considerations.
The ceremony concluded with a thanksgiving service, recognition of outstanding church members and prayers for the growth of the church and the nation.
