A clergyman in Akwa Ibom State has observed that youth restiveness, violent crimes and vandalism has been reduced to minimum in the state, Most Rev. Friday Ibanga KSMT PJHR Diplomat of The Everlasting Christ Gospel Mission International, ECGMI Mbiabong Ikot Udo Uso in Uyo made the observation when he played host to officers of The Community Anti- Drug Advocacy Initiative, CADAI in his Headquarters.
Led by its Commandant, Ephraim Obot, CADAI went to pay homage to The revered clergyman and philanthropist in recognition of his philanthropic and humanitarian gestures to the society. In his speech, Commandant Obot recognized the clergyman as The Chairman, Governing Council of the Advocacy group based on his support and spiritual guidance through his Chaplain Hospitallar and Human Initiative, CHAHI.
Obot disclosed that CADAI is duly recognized by The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA which they collaborate to rid the society of drug addiction. He stated that CADAI has a mandate of taking the advocacy to schools, brothels, villages, motor parks etc . He decried the proliferation of illicit drugs in the society even in primary schools which affects youths from the cradle.
Obot took time to narrate instances his organization has rescued victims from drug abuse. He enumerated their challenges which include finances to propagate it’s activities and rehabilitate rescued youths. He called on The Clergyman to support the organization financially and with materials to aid it’s activities.
In a goodwill message, Dr. Paul Dowells, a philanthropist thanked Most Rev Ibanga for inviting him to the occasion, he enumerated diverse benefits he has gained since discovering the the Man of God. According to him these covers both spiritual and financial gains; he said as a testimony of the grace of the clergyman he will support CADAI to the best of his ability when they bring their budget. Dowells promised to introduce CADAI to The University of Uyo, State Ministry of Education and other establishments who will key into their laudable activities.
The climax of the event was the presentation of an Award of “ Outstanding Spiritual Leadership” in recognition of his outstanding spiritual leadership, philanthropy and support to CADAI.
In his speech at the occasion, Most Rev Ibanga in his characteristic manner charged the group and audience with his dept in theology, philosophy and understanding of Christianity, he started by enlightening his audience that between 9- 11 March this year, The United Nations Office On Drugs and Crime, UNODC inaugurated 21 countries on a fight against drugs and crime. He disclosed that over 14.3 Nigerian Youths are addicted to illicit drugs.
He admonished youth in the society that drug does not add value to them as it leads them to destruction, he said virtues are earned through thrones and fear of God. He took a swipe at the behavior of today youths who communicate in pigin English and listen to toxic music.
The clergyman however observed that Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has through people oriented policies reduced youth restiveness and violence in the society to the barest minimum. He applauded the governor for governing with the fear of God while calling on the people of the state to continue to support him and his projects and programmes.
Rev Ibanga sees CADAI as part of God’s kingdom propagation as they are standing in gap for the society. He promised to introduce their activities to The UN and other bodies. The clergyman applauded the group and posited that it’s the type of organization that needs tithe. He made a substantial initial donation to the group, pending when they will present their budget to him.
Most Rev Friday Ibanga promised to train 10 of the cadets in the University on Social work to enable them continue to impact positively to the society.
He appreciated the honour bestowed on him by the organization and prophesied that it will be reciprocated divinely.
The occasion ended with the hoisting of CADAI flag at the premises of Everlasting Christ Gospel Mission International, ECGMI and Chaplain Hospitallar and Human Initiative CHAHI.
Most Rev Friday Ibanga KSMT PJHR Diplomat is a peculiar clergyman who’s philanthropic gestures and service to humanity is legendary, his organization periodically visits Correctional Centers , hospitals and other facilities with relief materials. His calling includes spreading comfort to the distressed in the society.
