The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), South-South Zonal Directorate of Agriculture and Empowerment, has congratulated Rev. Abili Samuel Abili on his election as Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Bayelsa Chapter.

The Zonal Director, Apostle Dr. Kiyaramo G. Timiebi, conveyed the congratulatory message in a statement, describing Abili’s emergence as “a divine placement at a critical time for the Church and society in Bayelsa.”

Timiebi said the new CAN chairman assumed office at a time when the Church was expected to provide strong moral leadership and contribute meaningfully to societal development.

He commended the immediate past chairman, Rev. Fr. Joseph Opelema, for his efforts to promote unity among Christians in the state and speak truth to power.

“We have observed the exemplary leadership of your predecessor, particularly in his efforts to unify the Body of Christ in Bayelsa State and his forthrightness in speaking truth to power.

“We trust that you will build upon this foundation,” the statement said.

The PFN directorate prayed God to grant Abili wisdom, grace and courage to provide effective leadership and address issues of corruption, injustice and inequality.

Timiebi said the directorate was committed to supporting initiatives that would promote food security, economic empowerment and community development in the state.

He pledged the directorate’s partnership with the new CAN leadership to support farmers, strengthen agricultural training and promote food production across Bayelsa and the South-South region.

“We will collaborate with your office to support farmers, encourage training and promote food security initiatives across Bayelsa State and the South-South region,” he said.

Timiebi also prayed for divine protection and wisdom for Abili as he assumes the leadership of the Christian community in the state.

“May God, who has lifted you to this exalted office as the number one Christian leader in the state, preserve you.

“May wisdom be your defence and honour. May truth embolden you for justice, and may God’s holiness shield you from shame and disgrace,” he said.

The PFN South-South Zonal Directorate of Agriculture and Empowerment is the agricultural and empowerment arm of the fellowship in the zone.

It focuses on equipping farmers, youths and women with skills, resources and faith-based support to promote food security, job creation and rural development.