By Lois Otse Adams
Prince Clem Agba led his family in a thanksgiving service on Sunday at the Eternal Sacred Order of Cherubim and Seraphim (ESOCS) Church in Abuja as he sets to leave the office as the Minister for Budget and National Planning (State).
This gathering served as an opportunity to express gratitude to God for His abundant grace in guiding his responsibilities as Minister since the cabinet’s inauguration on August 21, 2019.
During the sermon delivered by His Eminence, Elder Barr. Isaac Imo, the clergy commended Agba’s steadfastness and dedication in both his spiritual duties and governance, highlighting the endearing remarks he continues to make despite his obligations within the divine realm.
Quoting from the Book of Ecclesiastes 9:4, His Eminence encouraged the congregation to elevate their spirits in praise of God, expressing gratitude for the gift of life.
Further reading from the Book of Ezekiel 37:1-10 conveyed the powerful message of dry bones being revived. His Eminence, Imo, expounded on the symbolism of dry bones, representing the human body, and emphasized the reliance of prophet Ezekiel on God’s gift of prophecy (Chapter 7).
He challenged the attendees to forsake sinful ways and embrace the divine breath of God, affirming that only His divine touch could restore life to dry bones.
In his prayers, he sought divine rejuvenation for every lifeless bone, invoking the voice and hand of the Lord, supported by Psalm 29:4.
His Eminence further conveyed to the congregation and esteemed guests that they serve the God of new beginnings. He illustrated this by recounting the manifestation of God’s power through Samson, specifically how Samson’s hair regrew as a symbol of a fresh start.
Drawing moral lessons from these biblical accounts, he expounded on the connection between the hand of God and His voice, reiterating that “we serve the Lord of new beginnings”.
Citing John 2:5, His Eminence proclaimed the word of the Lord as a guiding light, emphasizing God’s consistent display of power.
He encouraged the congregantion to embrace their inner strength and acknowledge the remarkable power bestowed upon them by God.
During the family Thanksgiving ceremony, Agba expressed his gratitude to God for crowning his efforts.
He shared with the congregation the successful completion of three critical presidential assignments: the establishment of a predictable January to December budget cycle, formulation of the Medium-term National Development Plan and Long-term Plan known as Nigeria Agenda 2050, and the development of a National Monitoring and Evaluation Policy framework through the creation of EYEMARK.
Additionally, he reflected upon his humble beginnings, the challenges faced, and the undeniable favour of God that had guided his journey.
The church’s pastoral team offered prayers for the well-being of the Agba’s family, esteemed guests, and the nation as a whole.
Among those present at this momentous occasion were Director Generals, Chief Executives, Federal Commissioners, academics, political aides, Directors, ministry staff, colleagues from the All Progressives Congress, friends, and well-wishers.
