Pastors in Cote d’Ivoire honour Onwuchelu for outstanding feats

The Nigerian Pastors Association in Cote d’Ivoire (NIPACI) on Monday honoured the President of the Nigerian Community in Cote d’Ivoire, Chief Michael Emeka Onwuchelu for his outstanding feats since assumption of office.

The Banquet Dinner/Award Night which took place at the Eglise Evangeliwue Montagne de Delivrance, Marcory, was used to commemorate Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day Anniversary.

While welcoming the awardees and other invited guests, the President of the Nigerian Pastors Association, Apostle Dr. Aregbesola Olakunle said they were inspired by God to honour those who have contributed immensely to the course of Nigerians in Cote d’Ivoire.

His words, “The award is inspired by God in our hearts to give honour to who honour is due. We felt we should honour those who have contributed to the development of the Nigerian Community and have also contributed to the course of Nigerians in Cote d’Ivoire. We are giving the awards for them to continue to do more.”

Responding, the President of the Nigerian Community in Cote d’Ivoire, Chief Michael Emeka Onwuchelu appreciated NIPACI for the honour bestowed upon him and promised to continue to do more.

He however charged the Pastors to preach against the menace of human trafficking and prostitution which is causing embarrassment to Nigeria and Nigerians.

He said, “There is a menace facing Nigerians presently, it is human trafficking and prostitution. It is causing us serious embarrassment and it has to stop. Please, Pastors, preach it everywhere, to the authority until they hear and begin to do something. We cannot afford to watch our girls destroy themselves or be destroyed by some wicked elements who are perpetrating evils through human trafficking.”

Chief Onwuchelu also urged Nigerians present to always say positive things about their country. He said, “Let’s always say something good about our country. Things might not be looking good now but Nigeria still remains a great country. Once the issue of leadership is resolved, the country will bounce back. Nigeria remains great and we Nigerians at home and in Diaspora can also do well by continuously speaking good about our country.”

Meanwhile, during the event, the Pastors and all those present, prayed for the development and transformation of Nigeria. They also prayed for Nigerian Pastors, Nigerians in Diaspora; and for the peace of their host country, Cote d’Ivoire, especially as they prepare for their next election.

Some Pastors and Missionaries were also honoured during the Banquet Dinner alongside Chief Onwuchelu. The Nigerian Embassy in Cote d’Ivoire was also appreciated for their tireless efforts in ensuring that Nigerians are well catered for.