The Primate of All Nigeria, The Most Rev’d Dr. Henry C. Ndukuba, his wife, Mrs. Angela Ndukuba (Mama Nigeria), and a distinguished entourage of Archbishops and Bishops, paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Governor of Ondo State, His Excellency, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, to congratulate the government and people of the state on the historic Golden Jubilee (50th Anniversary) of the creation of Ondo State.

During the visit at the Government House in Akure, the Primate described leadership as a “divine mandate and a sacred trust,” emphasizing that whether in the Church or the State, leaders are ultimately accountable to God. Drawing inspiration from King David, Primate Ndukuba exhorted the Governor with a charge of righteousness:

“The God of Israel said, the Rock of Israel spoke to me: ‘He who rules over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God. And he shall be like the light of the morning when the sun rises, a morning without clouds, like the tender grass springing out of the earth, by clear shining after rain.’” — 2 Samuel 23:3-4

The Primate noted that leadership in current times is one of the most challenging tasks—politically, spiritually, and socially—but expressed confidence in God’s grace for the Governor to lead with justice. He further highlighted that the visit coincided with significant missionary activities, specifically the Inauguration of the Missionary Diocese of Idanre, aimed at expanding the gospel.
In his response, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa expressed deep gratitude, noting that the Primate was the state’s first official visitor following the 50th-anniversary celebrations. The Governor shared a moving testimony of his journey to office, attributing his position to “divine orchestration” rather than personal ambition. He further lauded the historical partnership between the Church and State in education and social welfare.

“The Church and the Government remain indispensable partners,” the Governor stated. “We appreciate the prayers and moral values the Anglican Communion continues to instill in our citizens. Our administration remains committed to working with the Church to ensure the Sunshine State remains a beacon of progress.”

The visit concluded with a special session of prayers led by the Primate, Archbishops and Bishops for the continued peace, security, and prosperity of Ondo State under Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership.

Signed:
Ven. R.A. Aderinwale
Director of Communication,
Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion)
February 5, 2026