A new Christian association made up of gospel ministers from Akwa Ibom and Cross River states serving outside their home communities has been formally inaugurated during a recent gathering in Agbarho, located in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State.
The group, known as AkwaCross Ministers in Diaspora, concluded a weeklong crusade and leadership inauguration that ran from June 6 to 17, 2025. The association seeks to bring together ministers of South-South origin with the aim of advancing evangelism in different parts of Nigeria.
The inauguration was led by the association’s President General, Bishop Dr. Sandy Elijah, who also serves as General Overseer of Mt. Zion Missionary Church in Sapele. In his address, Bishop Elijah stated that the group’s mission is to bring together ministers from Akwa Ibom and Cross River serving in various locations across the country, to improve coordination and impact in gospel outreach. Drawing from the biblical passage in Matthew 9 verse 37, “The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few,” he urged the ministers to recommit themselves to the work and build stronger ties with each other.
He added that regular collaboration among members of the association would help strengthen evangelism efforts and promote unity. “We must embrace new methods, expand our workforce, and partner with other churches to fulfil our calling,” he said. He also referenced the words of Mahatma Gandhi, saying, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others,” encouraging members to prioritise service as they carry out their mission.
During the meeting, ministers were asked to identify and take stock of churches led by indigenes of Akwa Ibom and Cross River within their areas of residence, as a way of fostering awareness and inclusion within the association’s structure.
A full slate of executive officers was announced during the event. Bishop Dr. Sandy Elijah was confirmed as President General, with Archbishop Utibe Ataga serving as Vice President General. Archbishop Ataga is also a senior lecturer at the University of Benin. Apostle Ekemini Mbosowo Akpan was named President of the Warri chapter, Apostle Godwin Umoren was appointed Treasurer, and Bishop Elect Mrs. Ataga now serves as the association’s Financial Secretary.
Others who took up leadership roles include Apostle Ediomo Emmanuel as Public Relations Officer I, Apostle Dr. Peter Samuel as Public Relations Officer II, Pastor Inimbomabasi Isaac Jonah as Welfare Officer III, and Pastor Paul Uga as Assistant Secretary. The welfare department is also represented by Prophetess Pastor Esther Atsomagba and Prophetess Inyene, serving as Welfare Officers I and II respectively, while Evangelist Vera Akpan King was named Director of Programmes.
Plans are underway to begin a series of outreach activities, encourage cooperation among churches, and organise training programmes that will strengthen the capacity of member ministers. The association aims to serve as a platform for mutual support and shared vision among ministers of Akwa Ibom and Cross River heritage working in different parts of the country.
