By Lucky Uto
The people of Ughelli Kingdom on Saturday gathered in large numbers to observe the 15th Annual Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving, reaffirming their faith in God and commitment to unity and development.
The spiritual event, which has become a major yearly gathering in the kingdom, drew clergy, church members, traditional chiefs, youth groups, and community leaders from the kingdom’s 23 communities.
Participants came together in praise, prayers, and thanksgiving, expressing hope for peace and progress.
Speaking at the event, the President of Ughelli Day of Prayer, Bishop Dr. Kingsley Enakirerhi, described the 15-year journey as a clear sign of God’s guidance and the people’s dedication.
He explained that the theme for this year, “Divine Visitation,” reflects the desire of the people for growth, peace, and breakthroughs.
He appreciated the Ovie of Ughelli Kingdom, HRM (Dr) Wilson Ojakovo Oharisi III, the Traditional Council, the Ughelli Descendants Union, and church leaders for working together to sustain the programme as he announced that the 16th edition will hold on January 23, 2027.
In his remarks, the monarch stressed that spiritual unity is key to the kingdom’s development.
He encouraged residents and indigenes to continue supporting and participating in the annual prayer initiative, adding that the idea was inspired by a similar programme in a neighboring community.
The royal father and other leaders later led prayers at important streets, junctions, roundabouts, and markets in Ughelli town, symbolizing a call for divine guidance in all areas of life.
Delivering the homily, Venerable Charles Igwe urged Christian groups in the kingdom to work more closely together, saying unity would promote peace and prosperity.
He described divine visitation as an encounter that can change lives and destinies.
Also speaking, the President-General of the kingdom, Chief Samuel Akpemegi, called on residents to continue supporting the monarch’s vision, noting that the annual gathering promotes communal growth.
The Izomo of Ughelli Kingdom, High Chief Sunday Ogheneovo Adams JP, praised the king for starting the initiative, saying it has recorded achievements over the years, including the Otovwodo flyover.
Chairman of the organising committee, Venerable Isaiah Ogue, acknowledged the challenges involved in planning the event but expressed satisfaction with its success.
He said this year’s outcome sets the stage for greater impact in future editions.
Among supporters of the programme was Evan. Friday Ushirhe, Chief Executive Officer of Godsown Hotel, who commended the monarch’s leadership and encouraged wider participation, noting that the prayer gathering has contributed to peace and stability in the kingdom.
The event ended with thanksgiving and praise sessions as the people of Ughelli once again demonstrated their resolve to build their kingdom on faith, unity, and collective hope for a better future.
