Governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano, is leaving no stone unturned in his commitment to establish cordial relationship with various religious denominations in the state, believing such bond will avail his administration the much-needed peace and spiritual backing to realise its lofty dreams for the state.

Governor Obiano, who spoke on Saturday at a dinner he organised for all Archbishops and Bishops of the Anglican Communion at the Banquet Hall of the Governor’s Lodge, Amawbia, described the Church and government as partners in progress in the task of changing lives and building a virile society.

He said a clear understanding of the roles of the church will guide religious leaders in pursuing peace and unity with one another as a pre-requisite for the development of the society.

The Governor observed that the state is presently reaping dividends of its partnership with the church in key sectors of the economy and assured that such engagements will be sustained. While assuring the church of his administration's continued support towards their evangelistic strides, Governor Obiano called for fervent prayers for the nation and its leaders in the task of administering the affairs of the nation.

In his remarks, the Archbishop, Metropolitan and Primate of all Nigeria, Anglican Communion, the Most Reverend Nicholas Oko described Governor Obiano as a visionary leader and great crusader whose dogged efforts are already yielding results towards breaking barriers created by the acrimony that hitherto existed among the various religious denominations in the State.

Archbishop Oko, while commending the Governor’s support towards repositioning Mission-owned Schools and Health institutions in the state, assured him of the prayers and support of the church towards the success of his administration.

In the entourage were 167 Anglican Prelates and their wives who were in the State for the consecration service of three new Bishops Venerable namely, Moses Tabwaye for Gwagwalada Diocese, the Venerable Johnson Ekwe for Niger West and the Venerable Isaac Oluyamo for Ijesa North Diocese, slated to hold at the All Saints Cathedral, Onitsha..

The dinner guests were later thrilled with performances by the famous Mkpokiti Dance Troupe from Umunze and the State NYSC Dance and Drama Troupe.

•Photo shows Governor Obiano.

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