It was a momentous occasion at the Archbishop Vining College of Theology (AVCOT), Akure, on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, as the Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), The Most Revd. Henry Ndukuba, accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Angela Ndukuba, paid his maiden episcopal visit to the institution. During the visit, the Primate delivered a stirring charge to the students and staff, anchoring his message on the urgent need for diligence and holiness in ministry.

Taking center stage to respond to the reception, Primate Ndukuba set a solemn and spiritual tone by singing from the Church of Nigeria Hymnal 546 (1), “A charge to keep I have.” Drawing from 2 Timothy 2:14-16, he admonished the future clerics to remain focused on the essence of their calling. He emphasized that the nation is in dire need of genuine spiritual leadership, declaring, “Nigeria is waiting for you,” and urged the students to deal decisively with anything contrary to the Word of God.

In a move to foster excellence within the institution, the Primate announced the establishment of the Primate’s Award. He instituted a cash prize of ₦500,000 for recipients in three categories: the Best Student in Morals and Character, the Best Academic Student, and the Most Improved Student.

Reflecting on the history of the Church, Primate Ndukuba extolled the “Supra West” board for its leadership in theological training. He paid tribute to the “unsung heroes”—laymen who discipled others even without being ordained—and honored the legacy of fathers of the faith like Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther, who nurtured the Church during its humble beginnings. He also corrected historical misconceptions regarding the charismatic movement, noting that the first recorded instance of speaking in tongues in the country occurred at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Breadfruit, proving that the manifestation of the Holy Spirit is deeply rooted in the Anglican heritage.

Earlier in the event, the Dean of the College, Ven. Moses Adetunbi, had formally welcomed the Primate, expressing profound gratitude for the primacy’s continued support. Ven. Adetunbi outlined the college’s commitment to holistic training that preserves the Anglican identity, summarizing the school’s vision with the acronym “CAC”—producing clergy who are Current, Articulate, and Correct. He stressed that character and morals remain the bedrock of the education offered at AVCOT.

Also speaking earlier, the Chairman of the Governing Board, The Rt. Revd. Joseph A. F. Olusola, described the Primate’s visit as a significant milestone that demonstrates the unity of the Church in fulfilling the Great Commission. He assured the Primate that the institution remains dedicated to developing clergy who are deeply rooted in the Word of God.

The event, which featured the presentation of gifts to the Primate by the College, the Chapel, and students from the Abuja Diocese during the proceedings, concluded as a spiritual morale booster for the college community.

 

Signed:

Ven. Raphael A. Aderinwale

Director of Communication Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion)

communication@anglican-nig.org

5th February, 2026