The National Youth Wing of the Christian Council of Nigeria (YOWICCN), Africa’s largest Orthodox youth fellowship, convened its 6th General Assembly and 13th Anniversary Celebration from November 7 to 9, 2025, at the United Evangelical Church (UEC) Headquarters in Lokoja, Kogi State.
The event united delegates from across Nigeria, ecumenical leaders, dignitaries, and youth representatives from CCN member denominations under the theme “Compelled by Grace: Jesus Our Example” (Titus 2:11–12).
Lokoja buzzed with gratitude, vibrant colors, and a palpable sense of divine grace as Christian youths celebrated 13 years of growth, unity, and societal impact.
The theme challenged participants to pursue disciplined, purpose-driven lives that embody God’s transforming grace through Christ.
In his address, outgoing National President Barr. Ekpa Emmanuel Attai urged Nigerian Christian youths to let Christ’s love fuel their pursuits.
“Grace is not an excuse for mediocrity; it is the divine energy for excellence and moral courage,” he declared.
“We are not coerced, but compelled by love; that serves rather than seeks to be served, sacrifices rather than competes, and shines rather than complains.”
Barr. Attai emphasized that grace compels believers to act nobly amid challenges.
“If we are truly compelled by His grace, love will guide our words, work, and witness,” he said.
“We must be the light showing Christ’s example to our nation. “The gathering pulsed with cultural vibrancy, featuring youth choirs from CCN denominations performing praise songs in Ọkụ́ọ̀ (Igbo), Igala, Bassa, and other dialects to symbolize unity in diversity.”
The Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN) Youth, representing YOWICAN Kogi State, joined in solidarity with two heartfelt renditions that amplified the ecumenical spirit.
Dignitaries included H.E. Elder Comrade Joel Salifu Oyibo, Kogi State’s Deputy Governor; H.E. Chief Dr. Edward Onoja, former Deputy Governor, represented by Barrister Benjamin Atomode (Lord Bishop); Most Rev’d Emmanuel A. S. Egbunu, Ph.D., Diocesan Bishop of Lokoja (Anglican Communion); Bishop John Ibenu, immediate past Kogi State CAN Chairman; and Rev. Samuel S. Essien, CCN Chairman for Kogi State.
Also present were Hon. Justices Ojoma Rachael Haruna, S. O. Ochimana (Rtd.), and H. E. Yusuf, alongside Kogi State Magistrates, barristers, royal fathers and mothers, and veteran faith leaders supporting youth ministry and ecumenism.
Several distinguished figures received Pillar of Ecumenism and Ambassadorial Awards for advancing church unity, youth empowerment, and Christian witness in Nigeria.
Guest preacher, Pastor Alikali Monday, delivered a stirring sermon aligned with the theme, calling young Christians to mirror Christ’s grace through integrity, humility, and compassion in daily life.
His message ignited plenary sessions on youth leadership, faith, and social responsibility.
Barr. Attai framed YOWICCN as a divinely commissioned movement, not just a youth forum.
“Ours is a divine call to raise believers whose hearts burn for revival and lives speak louder than words,” he said.
He outlined four pillars guiding the organization: Spiritual Reawakening, Leadership Development, Social Impact, and Institutional Strengthening—aimed at sparking revival, nurturing visionary leaders, channeling faith into service, and upholding CCN integrity.
“Our movement is not political; it is prophetic, driven by assignment, not ambition; testimonies, not titles; impact, not applause.
“He thanked partners and sponsors as “co-laborers in Christ’s vineyard,” noting their support as an “eternal investment in a generation heaven honors.”
In closing, he rallied the youths: “You are the church of today, not tomorrow. Do not let the world’s noise drown your calling. Chosen, capable, and anointed, let us march undaunted, unashamed, and unstoppable until Christ’s return.
The assembly peaked with elections for new executives, led by Bro. Emmanuel Ayokunle Eniade as National President, poised to advance YOWICON’s mission of Christian unity, leadership, and service among Nigerian youths.
The event concluded in thanksgiving, joyous worship, and unified song, affirming YOWICCN as a grace-fueled movement shaping lives, bridging churches, and igniting revival nationwide.
It was masterfully anchored by Clement Adeojo, YOWICCN Kogi State Chairman and Central Planning Committee head, whose touch infused the proceedings with warmth and flair.
