Abuja: Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), has lauded Rev. Williams Okoye as “a true servant of God whose humility and service remain exemplary.” Rev. Okoye, the Founder and General Overseer of the All Christians Fellowship Mission (ACFM), was celebrated during the ACFM’s 50th anniversary in Abuja, where Okoh encouraged younger Christians to emulate the values of faith, service, and integrity that Okoye has demonstrated over the decades.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Okoh recalled his first encounter with Rev. Okoye during the 2005 National Political Reform Conference, highlighting Okoye’s unwavering passion for good governance and national transformation alongside his devotion to ministry. Okoh remarked that Okoye’s advocacy, humility, and faith have been guiding lights for many, and acknowledged the sacrifices made by Okoye’s family and congregation. He offered prayers for more fruitful years of service for the Church.
Rev. Okoye recounted the journey of the ACFM, which began in August 1975 and has since grown into a global mission with branches in Nigeria, Rwanda, Uganda, and Burkina Faso. He credited the Church’s success to God’s grace, faithfulness, and the dedication of its members. Emphasizing the celebration’s theme, “God Our Helper” from 1 Samuel 7:12, Okoye underscored the Church’s mission to bring people to Christ, nurture their maturity, and equip them for service in the world. He urged Nigerians to remain thankful to God, regardless of their circumstances, as a means to progress in life.
Bishop Wale Oke, National President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, and Bishop David Abioye, Founder of the Living Word Conquerors Global Assembly, both emphasized the importance of integrity as foundational to societal excellence, encouraging investments in human development. Mr. Gbile Akanni, leader of the Living Seed Ministry, acknowledged the Church’s achievements but stressed the need for continued work. He congratulated the Church on its 50th anniversary and prayed for many more prosperous years.
Pastor Titus Omolewa, Chairman of the Anniversary Planning Committee, shared that the event featured awards to honor members and partners who made significant contributions over the past five decades. Long Membership Awards were given to 124 members with over 40 years of service, while special recognition was awarded to two surviving pioneers of the Mission. Seven posthumous awards were also presented, including one to Rev. (Mrs) Helen Titilayo Okoye, the late wife of the General Overseer, for her pioneering role and contributions to the Church.
Mr. Victor Okoye, one of the awardees, expressed gratitude for the recognition of his 46 years of service within the Mission, particularly in the music ministry. He described All Christians Fellowship Mission as more than just a Church, but as a family, spiritual anchor, and place of purpose. Reflecting on the day as bittersweet, he noted the absence of his late mother, whose pivotal role in the Mission’s growth continues to be felt within the Church and their family.