It was a historic Sunday at the NKST (Universal Reformed Christian Church) Iortyer in Iortyer Classis as the congregation and dignitaries from across the country gathered to celebrate the 25th pastoral anniversary of Resident Pastor and Synod Executive Committee member, Rev. Dr. Akpen Leva.
The silver jubilee celebration, held on Sunday, doubled as a literary event with the launch of two new books: My Priesthood Phobia, authored by the celebrant himself, and Akpen Leva: 25 Years of Endless Grace, written by his media aide, Sam Tyav.
The festivities commenced with a vibrant musical procession led by the 100th Benue Company of the Boys’ Brigade.
Accompanied by his wife, Atese Veronica Akpen, Rev. Dr. Leva arrived at the church auditorium to a standing ovation.
Reflecting on his journey, the celebrant expressed profound gratitude for his dual milestones: 25 years in the ministry and 23 years of dedicated service to the Iortyer congregation.
“This event marks two important milestones in our lives: 25 years of pastoral ordination and 23 years of superintending over the affairs of NKST Iortyer as the Resident Pastor, and I am deeply appreciative to the esteemed elders and the entire congregation of this Church for organizing such a huge event in our honour.
“I am deeply humbled by this honour. If there were pastors and congregations in paradise, I would still choose NKST Iortyer. The cooperation and love I have received here are unparalleled,” he said.
Beyond the celebration of his service in God’s vineyard, Rev. Leva reaffirmed his commitment to the vulnerable. He revealed that much of the support he receives from the church is redirected toward sponsoring the education of underprivileged students.
“I have many students whom I am sponsoring their education at different levels of learning over the years, and some have graduated.
“Today again, the Church under my watch is officially pronouncing a scholarship to a 100L student from the Department of Accounting at Rev. Moses Orshio Adasu University, Makurdi, by name Miracle Ngutesen Nyinongu, and I’m hereby soliciting your continued support to enable me to sustain the humanitarian work,” he stated.
In his sermon, Rev. Julian Yimaor Tsebee of NKST Angir in Angir Classis praised the celebrant’s spiritual leadership, describing him as a visionary leader who seeks divine direction to lead his people toward collective prosperity.
Representing the NKST president, Dr. C.T Annger commended Dr. Leva for his integrity, noting that he remains an “inspiration and an exemplary figure” in the Christian faith.
The Central Planning Committee, led by Mr. Kuma Aii Yenge, presented a new vehicle to the celebrant on behalf of the congregation. The keys were formally handed over by the NKST President’s representative as a token of appreciation for Dr. Leva’s over two decades of spiritual guidance.
The event drew a distinguished crowd, including Dr. Samuel Ortom, former Governor of Benue State; Rev. Amb. Nendega Asongo Adure, NKST President Worldwide (represented by Assistant General Secretary, Dr. C.T. Annger).
Others were the Women Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (WOWICAN), North Central Zone, and various traditional and religious leaders.
The event concluded with a special musical performance and a successful book launch, with guests contributing generously to support the Reverend’s ongoing mission and literary contributions.
