The first anniversary lecture in commemoration of the one hundred and sixtieth consecration anniversary of the first Bishop of the Niger, Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther organized by the Diocese on the Niger has been held at the Archbishop C.J Patterson Auditorium, All Saints Cathedral Onitsha, and drew fathers, Theologians and Church historians who unveiled the personality of the pioneer Bishop whom they said, laid the foundation of Christianization of Eastern Nigeria.

The Metropolitan and Primate of all Nigeria, Most Reverend Henry Ndukuba who described Bishop Crowther as an evangelist, maintained that Onitsha remains central to Crowther’s life and ministry, noting that he was used by God to impact on the lives of Nigerians.

Archbishop Ndukuba represented by Bishop of Lokoja Diocese, Most Reverend Emmanuel Egbunu urged Christians to emulate the selfless life led by Bishop Crowther and also sent a solidarity message on the unfortunate incident of centenary building at DMGS which collapsed few weeks ago.

The Archbishop, Province of the Niger and bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Reverend Alexander Ibezim said that the life of the late Bishop was a challenge to Christian leaders, especially in this era the ministry is lacking those who will sacrifice for Christ, lamenting that the youths of today are going back to Idolatry.

 

Director of Diocese on the Niger Church Centre, Venerable Izuchukwu Obiekwe urged the clergy to strive towards touching souls, especially at this period people are faced with many challenges.

The event which attracted more than twenty Bishops, including former Governor of Anambra State, Mr Peter Obi, featured the unveiling of Crowther Journal of Arts and Humanities as well as his statue.