… describes Amurawaiye as ‘dedicated and committed’
Gratitude in the heart of a man, they say, is the secret of abundance. This was the case at Our Saviour Anglican Church, Army Signal, Lokoja on Sunday when the Permanent Secretary (Administration) Eldr. Ephraim Amurawaiye held a Thanksgiving Service to praise and appreciate God for his recent appointment.
Amurawaiye was joined by his beautiful wife, W. Amurawaiye, daughters, Dr. Ebun, Olufunmilayo, colleagues, friends, and well wishers.
The service commenced with a praise and worship session with songs rendered by the church choir to the delight of the congregation.
The family was led in a thanksgiving prayer and praise session by the Archbishop of the Province of Lokoja Anglican Communion, & Bishop of Lokoja Diocese, Most Revd. Emmanuel A.S Egbunu who admonished the congregation to develop the attitude of gratitude and thanksgiving.
According to the clergy, having a thankful heart opens the door for God’s blessings, and great accomplishment.
Bishop Egbunu explained that to see God’s will accomplished in life, man must always give gratitude, noting that this brings pleasure to the heart of God.
Reading from the Holy Scripture, the book of Psalm 116:12, he reminded the people that vows are powerful sacrifices in the sight of God, hence must be fulfilled. He said it was more critical to fulfill vows made, as God never forgets. He cited the case of Hannah in the book of 1st Samuel, chapter 1: 10-12.
“God never forgets vows.”
Quoting from the book of Psalm, he said “Offer unto God thanksgiving, and pay thy vows unto the most High: And call upon me in the day of trouble: l will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me”.
He therefore enjoined the congregation to cultivate the attitude of gratitude, and keep faith in God.
Bishop Egbunu in his exhortation to the appointee charged Civil Servants to rededicate their lives to service, and remain loyal to God.
He urged workers to improve their attitude to work by putting in their best, and always do the right things, adding that they should also seek God`s guidance in all their dealings through fervent prayers.
The Man of God charged them to be selfless and altruistic in their service to the people, arguing that this would definitely leave a positive imprint on the service and a legacy of commitment.
“Dare to be a Daniel. Dare to stand alone, and dare to make a difference. You cannot change everything, but you can change somethings. Stand out for what is right.”
He described the celebrant as a dedicated and committed public servant who has distinguished himself as a diligent and committed officer to the state and the civil service.
The Bishop urged the new permanent secretary to live above board and represent the church well by not failing in his new position.
“You must hold on steadfastly to the Lord to guide you; we come to the church for thanksgiving, that thanksgiving has to be sustained with the service you render to the people.”
The reverred clergy enjoined him to see his new position as a trust that comes with high expectations, urging him to provide the necessary leadership and direction in his office.
He said, “I believe God has raised you up to this position at this time for a definite purpose. Ask God to give you grace to fulfill it.
Bishop Egbunu offered prayers for God’s blessings, protection and favour in the life of the Celebrant and his family.
In an interview shortly after the service, the Permanent Secretary acknowledged the hand of God in his life and the family. He said God has been faithful to him in his endeavours.
While appreciating Governor Yahaya Bello for finding him worthy for the promotion, he promised to justify this by doing his best, work more and rededicate himself for the growth of the civil service in the state.
Amongst dignitaries who graced the occasion were the Secretary to the Kogi State Government, Dr. Ayoade Folashade Arike who was represented by the Permanent Secretary (Cabinet), Mr. Ezekiel Shaibu, the state Head of Civil Service, Mrs. Hannah Odiyo, Editor, The Graphic Newspaper, James Oyewole, Secretary, Kogi State House of Assembly Commission, Hon. Olorunmaiye Yemisi, Bishop of Okene Diocese, Rt. Rev. Emmanuel Onshashi.
Others in attendance were Amb. Usman Bello, Alh. Isah Adeboye, both of Kogi State Jama’atul Nasril Islam, (JNI), Perm. Sec, State Min of Education, Mr Idenyi Emmanuel Samson, Director Admin & Finance, (SSG’s Office), Mr. Benjamin Ajodo, Chief Vincent Aiyedun, and a host of retired Permanent Secretaries, serving Senior civil servants and many more.
