The Executive Director of Corporate Services at the South East Development Commission (SEDC), Chief Dr. Sir Sylvester Okonkwo, KSC, has extended heartfelt appreciation to the Rt. Rev. Dr. Owen Chiedozie Nwokolo, Bishop on the Niger, for the warm letter of felicitation from the Diocese on the Niger following his appointment by the Federal Government to the newly inaugurated Commission.
Chief Okonkwo, a devout Anglican and Knight of Saint Christopher, made this known in a statement released today in Abuja, following the conclusion of the 33rd Synod of the Diocese on the Niger, held from June 5-8, 2025 at St. Barnabas Anglican Church, Ojoto, in Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The Synod, with the theme “Christ in You, the Hope of Glory” (Colossians 1:27), brought together over 720 clergy and laity, including high-ranking members of the clergy, government officials, traditional rulers and community leaders. It was a profound moment of spiritual reflection, regional unity and national advocacy.
Chief Okonkwo, while expressing gratitude for the recognition accorded to him, emphasized the historical and spiritual significance of the Diocese on the Niger—the oldest Anglican Diocese in Nigeria, tracing its foundation to the mission of Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther and the Church Missionary Society in 1864.
“I am deeply honoured by the Diocese’s gracious acknowledgment of my appointment. To be recognized by this great citadel of faith, where discipline, development, and devotion converge, is a most humbling gesture,” said Chief Okonkwo.
He lauded the Synod for what he described as “a robust communiqué grounded in truth and national healing,” particularly its commendation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for signing into law the bill establishing the South East Development Commission (SEDC)—a visionary act that finally responds to the post-war promise of Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Reconciliation (RRR).
“The Diocese rightly framed this as not just a political gesture, but as a historic turning point for justice, equity,l and reintegration of the South East into the core fabric of national development. We at SEDC embrace this responsibility with open hearts and clear minds,” he added.
Chief Okonkwo also extended profound appreciation to His Royal Highness Igwe Gerald Mbamalu, Eze Ojoto III, for his exceptional leadership and gracious hosting of the Synod in Ojoto, a community he described as “a beacon of Igbo hospitality, excellence, and spiritual grounding.”
The SEDC Executive Director used the opportunity to call on the faithful, government leaders, and development partners to join hands with the Diocese on the Niger, and by extension the Church, in elevating its far-reaching efforts in education, healthcare, youth empowerment, and social development.
“The Church is more than a spiritual refuge. It is an agent of transformation. For over a century, the Diocese on the Niger has built schools, hospitals, moral institutions, and leaders. Supporting this institution is not optional—it is essential to building a resilient and ethical society,” Chief Okonkwo emphasized.
He noted that as the SEDC begins the arduous task of driving development across the five South Eastern states of Nigeria, the wisdom, reach and moral authority of institutions like the Church will be indispensable.
“Development is not just about roads and structures—it is about restoring dignity, strengthening institutions, and uniting communities under shared purpose. We at the Board and Management of the South East Development Commission (SEDC) are committed to ensuring that SEDC engages the Church as a strategic partner for sustainable impact,” he declared.
Chief Okonkwo also expressed optimism that his new role, coupled with his faith and roots in the region, will help bridge the gap between policy and the people, especially those who have been historically marginalized.
He ended the statement by reaffirming his dedication to service, integrity, and collaboration with all stakeholders, urging the South East populace to rise to the moment:
“Let this Synod be a clarion call, a spiritual and civic reminder that our region’s future lies in collective action, godly leadership, and the willingness to serve. I thank the Bishop, the Diocese, the Ojoto community, and indeed, all those who continue to labor in faith and love for our common good.”
