The Lady Jibowu Hall of the Government House, Ado-Ekiti, was filled with an air of solemnity and gratitude on Friday evening as the August edition of the State’s monthly Evening of Praise and Worship held in grand style.
With the theme “Overcomer”, the session once again emphasized the centrality of faith and collective supplication in the spiritual rhythm of Ekiti State.
It was not merely a gathering of hymns and worship but a convergence of leaders, citizens, and clerics, united in the conviction that the hand of God rests firmly upon the land. The evening witnessed fervent prayers, deep worship, and exhortations drawn from the Holy Scriptures, all affirming God’s unshakable covenant of peace.
Quoting from Isaiah 54:10 and Ezekiel 34:25, participants were reminded that though mountains may depart and hills be removed, God’s promise of peace remains irrevocable. This declaration resonated with many in attendance who see the monthly worship as a spiritual anchor for the State’s progress and unity.
In her address, the First Lady of Ekiti State, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, encouraged worshippers to hold fast to God’s promises, noting that His word is unfailing. She stressed that peace in Ekiti was not just a political aspiration but a divine inheritance secured by God’s covenant. “What He has spoken, He will surely perform,” she reminded the congregation.
The session also provided a moment of reflection on the State’s spiritual journey. The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Ekiti State Chapter, Dr. Emmanuel Aribasoye, drew a powerful connection to January 2023 when Governor Biodun Oyebanji, in the same hall, publicly dedicated the State to God. According to him, what is committed to God remains divinely preserved.
His words carried a strong reassurance that the peace and stability Ekiti has enjoyed since then are not by accident but by divine ordination. He prayed that the covenant would continue to shield the State from turbulence and preserve its heritage of harmony.
The guest preacher, Pastor Ilesanmi, who delivered a sermon that brought home the limitless power in the name of Jesus Christ, expounded on the different names and attributes of the Lord, urging participants to walk with renewed confidence that with God, nothing is impossible.
Beyond the preaching and prayers, the session was also a reaffirmation of the bond between leadership and the people through shared faith, demonstrating that governance in Ekiti is not only about policies and programmes but also about acknowledging the spiritual foundation of peace and development.
Participants described the atmosphere as uplifting, noting that the session rekindled hope for a future defined by peace, progress, and prosperity, as they expressed gratitude that the government has continued to create a platform where faith and governance intersect.
The August edition was well attended by dignitaries including the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro; the Head of Service, Dr. Mrs Peju Babafemi; commissioners, special advisers, and other top government functionaries. Civil servants, community leaders, and members of the public also turned out in large numbers.