Anglican Diocese of Warri Held at the Cathedral Church of St. Andrew, Warri | 3rd –7th May 2025
The First Session of the Fifteenth Synod of the Anglican Diocese of Warri commenced with the Diocesan Board on the 3rd; a grand opening service on Sunday, 4th May 2025, at the Cathedral Church of St. Andrew, Warri. The service featured a colourful procession of the choir, legal luminaries, clergy, and was presided over by the Diocesan Bishop, The Rt Rev. Christian Ide, JP.
The guest preacher, The Rt Rev. Festus Uzorka Nwafili, Bishop of Ndokwa Diocese, delivered a powerful sermon titled “Christ’s Forgiveness: A Call to Forgive Others.” He emphasized the necessity of forgiveness as a Christian duty, urging believers to model Christ’s mercy and reject unforgiveness.
The Synod was honoured by the presence of the King of Agbarha Warri Kingdom, who offered goodwill, made donations, and reaffirmed the strong relationship between the Church and the traditional institution. The Archbishop of Bendel province, the Most Rev’d Dr Odutemu, and other invited bishops also graced the occasion, with the Archbishop leading a time of prophetic prayers and blessings.
During plenary sessions, the Synod received and deliberated on detailed reports from various arms of the Diocese, covering areas such as evangelism, theological education, youth development, infrastructure, and finance. Elections were held for key diocesan positions in a peaceful and transparent process, and the newly elected officers were charged with faithful and diligent service.
The Bishop’s Charge called for spiritual revival, unity, forgiveness, and the pursuit of holiness among clergy and laity. The Charge also highlighted the need for youth empowerment and practical Christian living.
In its communiqué, the Synod expressed:
Gratitude to God for His faithfulness and to all who contributed to the Synod’s success.
Concern over the worsening state of national insecurity, criticizing the government’s failure to protect its citizens, particularly Christian communities.
A call for a new Nigerian constitution to address foundational issues hindering national unity and development.
Commendation of the Delta State Government’s M.O.R.E. Agenda, especially infrastructural projects in Warri and Effurun, while urging equitable development across the state.
Caution regarding the reactions to ward delineation in the Warri Federal Constituency, calling for peaceful resolution and avoidance of past crises.
The Synod concluded with a joyful thanksgiving service and reaffirmed its commitment to biblical authority, Anglican tradition, and the Great Commission. It charged all Christians to embody the message of Christ’s forgiveness and become agents of peace and reconciliation in the Church and society.
May God grant you grace to *grow your mustard-seed-like faith, so that you may move mountains* (Matthew 17:20), in Jesus Christ’s name. Your new month is blessed+
His lordship, the Rt Rev’d C E Ide, JP, the lord Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Warri today transferred Ven. Benson Ejedegba from St Barnabas, Urhuoka to St. John’s Church, Okpara inland as Vicar and Archdeacon. The Canon Dr Faith Aghe was transferred from St Peter’s Church, Igbudu Warri to St Barnabas, Urhuoka, as Vicar. The Revd Favour Esada was transferred from St James’ Church, Ojabugbe to St Peter’s Church, Igbudu Warri as Curate. This posting is with immediate effect.
This was done today at the retirement service of the VEN. JACOB OBOVWOGHO (AWOLOWO) LUYA who clocked 70years today. The service started with a processing in hymn C.N.H. 397 at about 11.15 am with The Rt Rev’d Christian E. Ide, JP as the chief celebrant.
The Ven. Friday O. Ejemrae took the ante-communion; Ven. Jacob O. Luya took the O.T. Reading while Canon Dr Joseph J. Arowore took the Epistle with Rev. Andrew Atevure taking the gospel.
His lordship, Rt. Rev. John U. Aruakpor took the sermon. He took his text from Gal.6:9
And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart
and 1Cor.15:58
Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.
The topic of the sermon was ‘let us not grow weary in doing good”.
He started by telling the story of how the Ven. Jacob O. Luya was the architect to him answering the call into the ministry. He said that he had a dream that he was unable to interpret which Ven. Jacob Luya help to interpret and also encouraged him (Bishop John Aruakpor) to collect a form for ordination course while he (Jacob Luya) was attending a Catechist training. He said Jacob Luya did not mind if the Bishop becoming a priest mean a superior to him, and that singular act made him to become the harvest of the seed he once sowed. He them advised ministers to always use the opportunity they have to help others to discover their gifts and become the harvest of their seed sowed. He concluded with fundraising in which many were touched and donated handsomely to support the retiring Cleric.
This was closely followed with the book launch which the retiring Ven. Luya wrote.
The holy communion service was closed with a processing out Hymn C.N.H.418.
As 2024 ends and 2025 begins, may the strength of God sustain you; may the power of God preserve you; may the hands of God protect you; may the way of God direct you; and may the love of God go with you forever. In Jesus’ name!
It was another glorious and joyful day yesterday, during the Diocesan Board meeting held at the St. Matthew’s Anglican Church, Ogunu, Warri, as his lordship, the Rt Rev’d C E Ide, JP, the lord Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Warri graciously pronounced the preferrement of 14 clergymen as Archdeacons and Canons.
The ultimate measure of true leadership is not to maintain followers but to produce leaders.
Over six decades ago, at about 3 am. on Monday morning, precisely September 21, 1959, a church leader was born into the family of Jude Ofodidun Ide. He was thus christened, Christian Esezi Ide.
Today, we felicitate with an accomplished leader,a rare gem, and an unblemished symbol of humility and piety.
My lord, your robust contributions to the development of the Anglican Diocese of Warri are fascinating; Your impeccable attention to details in every matter before you is alluring; your unquantifiable services to the Church of Nigeria and Anglican Diocese of warri are well noted in the historiography of the church.
Today, we celebrate a man of vision, mission, reliable, prudent, dependable, and faithful to constituted authorities, a pastor of pastors; a listening Bishop to both young and old; your participatory leadership style has led to the abundant discovery of hidden talents among Clergy and lay people alike in the Diocese, indeed, you see people as people, knowing fully well that human value is not measured in materials terms. A bishop who is fully committed to the overall welfare and well-being of both his clergy and parishioners, our lord Bishop, on this your special day, may the very joy of the Lord follow you and your household now and always in Jesus Mighty Name. Happy birthday!
Dearly beloved, receive grace to respond with prayer and worship whenever you are faced with adversity, and may deliverance follow (see Acts 16:25-40). In Jesus Christ’s name.
Welcome to September of your blessings, in Jesus name! +
His lordship, the Rt Rev’d C E Ide, JP, the lord Bishop of the Diocese of Warri at the Appointment Board meeting today announced the transfer of some clergymen across the Diocese.
These includes the following:
1. Ven. Paradise Onoriose from St. Matthew’s Church, Okpara Waterside to St. Matthias’ Church, EKU as Archdeacon/Vicar.
2. Ven. Oghenerume Ophikale posted to Christ the King Church, Egbokodo as Vicar.
3. Ven. Lawrence Odechemu from Christ the King Church, Egbokodo to St. Matthew’s Church, Okpara Waterside as Archdeacon/Vicar.
4. Rev. Canon Dr Cajethan Otti from St. James’ Church, Uti Road, Effurun to St. Paul’s Church, Edjeba as Vicar.
5. Rev. Canon Innocent Ereridjere from St. Paul’s Church, Edjeba to the Cathedral Church of St. Andrew, Okere-Warri as Canon Residential.
6. Rev. Barr. Peter Odie from St. Stephen’s Church, Off Jakpa Road to St. James’ Church, Uti Road, Effurun as Vicar.
7. Rev. Elijah Odjugo from St. Luke’s Church, Ifiekporo to St. Paul’s Church, Umeghe-Abraka as a Curate.
8 Rev. Daniel Etaoghene from Christ Church, Effurun proceeds on Sick Leave.
9. Rev. Dr. Wisdom Akpoviri from Cathedral Church of St. Andrew, Okere-Warri to Church of the Ascension, Warri as Vicar.
10. Rev. Michael Akakasi from St. Paul’s Church, Umeghe-Abraka to Ezekiel College of Theology, Ekpoma as a Lecturer.
11. Rev. Jonah Ejowoh from The Good Shepherd Church, Igbudu to Church of the Redeemer, Warri as a Curate.
12. Rev. Young Iyomih from St. Peter’s Church, Igbudu to Christ Church, Effurun as a Curate
13. Rev. Ubiomo Ezimeruwe from the Church of the Redeemer, Warri to the Cathedral Church of St. Andrew, Okere-Warri as the Bishop’s Chaplain
14.The Revd Bernard A. Omoko from St. Peter’s Anglican Church, Igbudu Warri to St. Matthew’s Anglican Church, Ugbomro as Assistant Priest ( N/S)
N.B. The Ven. (Engr) Dennis Nnamani is appointed as Supervising Archdeacon of Warri South East. Note that he remains the Vicar of All Saints’ Church, Airport Road.
The posting takes effect from Sunday, September 1, 2024.
We wish them all a successful ministry in their new stations.
Our life may be the only version of Jesus that someone sees(Galatians 5:13b).
May the Holy Spirit continue to work in and through you; and bear fruit in you that reveals God’s love and goodness to others in Jesus Christ’s name. Happy New Month. Bishop Ide
St Luke’s Church was agog as the third Session of the Fourteenth Synod kicked off with the Diocesan Board meeting, presided over by the Diocesan and President of Synod, His lordship, the Rt Rev’d C E Ide, JP. In attendance were our beloved mother in Israel, Mrs Patience O. E. Ide, the Chancellor, Justice Z Smith and the legal team, Diocesan Officials, Clergy and Laity.
Quote Overcoming requires complete dependence on God’s directions, for a purposeful living, for fulfilment and strength – Bp Ide
Synod theme His lordship announced that the theme and text for the Synod is *Overcoming: The birthright of Christians (1 John 5:5).
This shall be fully explored in the sermons, bible studies and in the the Bishop’s Charge.
Highlights Highlights of the Board included the presentation of various reports, which were duly discussed. His lordship called for prayers about the Igbudu land, which is still in court.
Decision was taken on how to sponsor more of our youths to the Joshua Generation International Youth Conference, as its impact have been tremendous.
His lordship also announced his daughter’s wedding coming up June 1, 2024,
To round off the events of the day, the lord Bishop announced it was the Chancellor’s birthday, today. He led the board to sing for him. A cake was presented in his honour with refreshments distributed to all. After which the Ven. Friday Ejemrae, was asked to pray for him.
When we walk through a season of uncertainty in life and God seems silent, we need to remind ourselves that God has good plans for us (Jeremiah 29:11).
It’s my prayer that whenever you feel blinded by fear and uncertainty, may you remember God’s promises over your life, and may testimonies follow. In Jesus’ name. Happy New Month. +Bp
When people look for evidence of the resurrection of Jesus Christ in your life, may they find it (cf 2 Cor. 3:2), in Jesus Christ’s name. Happy New Month +
As you lift up your soul unto the LORD, may you triumph over your enemies (Psalm 25:1-2); and may they lose their self confidence (Nehemiah 6:16) as the LORD grants you success in your life’s endeavours. In Jesus Christ’s name.
People of God, this time six years ago, our ever faithful God removed sorrow from us all by preserving the life of our father, the Rt Rev’d C E Ide, JP in a ghastly motor accident on his way from a national assignment.
We must count this blessing and return every glory to the King of kings.
Drop your words of thanksgiving section to appreciate the great I Am that I Am
It’s my prayer that whatever challenging situations you may currently be facing, may the Lord help you to lean on Him so as to bounce back (Acts 14:19-20). In Jesus Christ’s name! +Bsp
On the 18th day of November 2023 will go down the history books as a memorable day for Diocese of Warri as she held a one-day synod, at St. James’ church, Oviorie Ovu.
The synod started with a Holy Eucharist service at 10am, with the Diocesan and President of Synod, His lordship, the Rt Rev’d. Christian Esezi Ide, JP, presiding. His lordship also delivered the sermon. Theme: The Upward Way Text: Genesis 28:12ff
He emphasized the need for the Diocese to move forward. He charged Synod delegates to resolve to be led by the Holy Spirit in the various areas we need to decide on today as the Diocese has no other option than to move to the next level.
“After the Eucharistic service, the plenary section immediately followed with the President of Synod presiding.”
The President of Synod informed the house of the need to gather for a day synod which is a practice in the Church of Nigeria, when there is an urgent issue that only synod can resolve.
Firstly, was the vacant office of the synod clerical secretary – this need arose due to the fact that the former synod clerical secretary in person of Ven. Dr Robinson Orido, has relocated to the United Kingdom with his family.
Secondly, the future of the Diocese in respect of having a sustainable investment that will benefit her.
His lordship also informed Synod that in line with the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) directive, all Dioceses are to be identified with the words ‘Diocese of’ preceding its name. As such, a resolution is needed to register the Diocese with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) as the “Diocese of Warri” (Anglican Communion). Following a voice vote, Synod unanimously voted in support of the ratification.
The President of synod, made it known to synod that synod cannot continue, without the synod clerical secretary, who also is a principal signatory and an incorporated trustee of the Diocese. An election was conducted and the Rev’d Canon Peters Agamugoro, Ph.D was elected the new synod clerical secretary.
The next concern, focusing on the Diocese’s future and its pursuit of a sustainable investment for the benefit of the Diocese, involved a proposal to establish a Microfinance Bank. Numerous discussions and informative sessions were conducted on this matter. After an extensive deliberation, both the houses of clergy and laity unanimously agreed to proceed with establishing the Microfinance Bank.
The Rt Rev’d & Mrs C. E Ide, JP
The proposed name for the bank is ‘Divine Stairway Microfinance Bank, as given by the Diocesan and President of Synod. The Bishop charged the committee to proceed with the preparations and set out the modalities for the bank to swiftly takeoff.
May the Lord give you godly wisdom that will bear fruit in the lives of others (1 Kings 3:28) in Jesus Christ’s name! Enjoy fruitfulness in August. Happy New Month Bishop
Every temptation we face is often laced with a lie to deceive us that God is not good, not trustworthy, and does not have our best interests at heart (cf Matthew 4:6:11).
May God help you to identify the lie behind any temptations you face, so that you may emerge victorious from them. In Jesus Christ’s name! Happy New Month +
Today, his lordship, the Rt Rev’d C E Ide, JP, our lord Bishop, transferred 10 clergymen and one proceeding on retirement leave, at the Appointment board meeting of the Diocese.
The Rt Rev’d C E Ide, JP
Those affected are:
1. Ven. I. D. Umukoro – proceeding on retirement leave from Ugborikoko Archdeaconry.
2. Ven. Paradise Onoriose – Agbon Archdeaconry
3. Ven. Isaac Itomu – Ugborikoko Archdeaconry
4. Ven. Sunday Ikpesa – Abraka Archdeaconry
5. Ven. Reuben Obegor – Agbon West Archdeaconry
6. Ven. Endurance Otobrise – Effurun East Archdeaconry
7. Ven. Terry Olokor – Warri Central Archdeaconry
8. Canon Stephen Ojukoko – Administrative Secretary
The Chairman of the Governing Council, Adam Igbudu Christian Institute, Emevor and the Bishop of Warri Diocese, Anglican Communion, the Rt. Rev’d Christian Esezi Ide, JP, paid a Courtesy visit to the Vice Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt Professor Owunari Abraham Georgewill on Friday, 9th December 2022.
The solemn visit was to show appreciation to the Vice Chancellor and his management team for the good works they are doing since his assumption of office, especially on the wonderful relationship between the University and Adam Igbudu Christian Institute Emevor.
It could be recalled that earlier this year, a team of experts from the National University Commission (NUC) paid a resource verification visit to Adam Igbudu Christian Institute Emevor and subsequently made public the success of the exercise and the Commission’s approval of the affiliation of both schools.
The action of the regulatory agency on the affiliation of AICI to the UNIPORT was akin to a crown on the astounding efforts of both Institutions as attested to by the NUC officials….
Photo speak:
His lordship and the Vice Chancellor The Bishop, Vice Chancellor and the entourage From us in UNIPORT to our lord Bishop.Let this word of God, guide you in all you do.
His lordship addressing the Vice Chancellor and his management team stated that, “we are not unaware of the common saying that ‘appreciation is application for an application for more’ but rather, we have come to say, in the serious of Cecilia Ahern, ‘thank you for the Yesterdays, today and the tomorrows that we await’ “. – Rt Rev C. E. Ide.
The Bishop leading prayers in the office of the DAP UNIPORT, Prof Ngozi Iheanacho.His lordship addressing the Vice Chancellor and his management team.The DAP UNIPORT, Prof Iheanacho, welcoming the Bishop and his team to the VC’s office and introducing the UNIPORT’s management team.The Vision and the Mission …
May the Lord help you to love Him, not only when life is going well, but also when life is difficult (John 21:15-19); and may breakthroughs follow. In Jesus’ name. Happy New Month! Bishop C E Ide, JP
God is about to visit His people again! In MANIFEST 2025, the Lord is about saying something to you to settle your crises. He is about to speak to your situation, don’t miss it.
GABRIEL OKEOGHENE EVRU
DATE OF BIRTH: 9TH MAY, 1983
NAME OF SPOUSE: MRS OGHENERO FAITH OKEOGHENE EVRU
HOME DIOCESE: OLEH
HOME TOWN: EMEVOR
DATE BAPTIZED: 31ST JULY, 1983
DATE CONFIRMED: 29ST SEPTEMBER, 2002
LGA/STATE OF ORIGIN: ISOKO NORTH DELTA STATE
HOME ADDRESS: ST. MICHEAL’S ANGLICAN CHURCH EMEVOR
HOBBIES: MUSIC, SINGING, FOOTBALL, READING, PRAYING AND EVANGELISM
POSITION HEAD IN CHURCH:
1. LAYREADER – 2012-2020
2. PCC SECRETARY – 2009-2019
3. VICE – PRESIDENT – WARRI SOUTH WEST ARCHDEACONRY
4. SECRETARY (AYF) – ST. PAUL’S EDJEBA
5. PRESIDENT (AYF)UNIT – ST. PAUL’S EDJEBA
6. CHOIRMASTER/ORGANIST – ST. PAUL’S EDJEBA
7. SECRETARY (AYF) – WARRI SOUTH ARCHDEACONRY
8. EVANG. ASST. CO-COORDINATOR – WARRI SOUTH ARCHDEACONRY
9. ASSISTANT SECRETARY AAPS – ST. PAUL’S EDJEBA
VISION FOR MINISTRY – TO RECONCILE MEN TO GOD THROUGH
EVANGELISM
