It was a moment of joy, reflection, and thanksgiving as officers, clergy, and friends gathered at the Chapel of Good News, Nigeria Police Command Headquarters, Kaduna, to celebrate the retirement and send-forth service of DSP Pastor Nathaniel Omale, former State Coordinator of the Christian Police Fellowship of Nigeria (CPFN), Kaduna Chapter.The event, tagged “A Divine Gathering of Gratitude”, drew dignitaries from various security agencies, church bodies, and Christian fellowships who came together to honour a man described as “humble, teachable, and impactful.”The service began with a warm welcome by the officiating chaplain, who expressed gratitude to God for granting the celebrant a successful career and peaceful retirement.
At the retirement service held in honour of a respected leader and teacher,
Dr. Benedict Alliku gave a heartfelt address celebrating the life and service of a man he described as “a father, a brother, a leader, and a teacher.”
Giving glory to God for bringing everyone together for the occasion, Dr.Aliku reflected on Ecclesiastes 7:8, saying, “The end of a matter is better than its beginning.” He emphasized that it is a great blessing not only to start a good work but to live long enough to see its successful completion.
He explained that the occasion marked a two fold celebration — the retirement of the celebrant from the Nigeria Police Force after 35 years of meritorious service, and his exit from the office of the Police Fellowship Coordinator. Dr. Aliku described the celebrant as “humble, teachable, and ever ready to learn.”
“Although he did not receive the level of support other coordinators had enjoyed, God still helped him to make a lasting impact,”
— Dr. Benedict Joseph
Speaking both as a pastor and as a leader within the Cornerstone Apostolic Network emphasized that their vision is rooted in discipleship and reproducing the life of Jesus Christ wherever believers are found. He encouraged the celebrant to continue the work of Christ even after retirement.
Quoting Proverbs 22:1 and Proverbs 13:22, Dr. Alliku stated, “A good name is better than riches, and a good man leaves an inheritance for his children.” He then released prophetic blessings, declaring that the celebrant would live to reap the fruits of his labour, and that his children and grandchildren would also enjoy those blessings.
“You will not reap sorrow in your retirement. You will enjoy your pension and live in happiness. Mercy will speak for you,”
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Dr. Benedict Alliku prayed.
He reminded the congregation that as Christians, especially leaders, mercy works for those who acknowledge their shortcomings. He explained that God answers the prayers of mercy faster than the prayers of revenge, and urged believers to depend on the intercession of Jesus Christ, who sits at the right hand of God.
Commending the celebrant’s humility and commitment to training, Dr. Joseph declared:
“Whatever good thing you did not enjoy during your years of service, you will enjoy in retirement. Where others struggle to receive their benefits, mercy and favour will go ahead of you.”
In conclusion, Dr. Joseph advised the retiring officer to transition gracefully into civilian life, not as a hero, but as a leader with humility and the character of Christ.
“Civilian life may see you with suspicion at first, but the quality of Christ in you will speak for you,”
he said.
“As a soldier of Jesus Christ, may God grant you grace, power, and anointing for the next mission ahead.”
The congregation responded with joy and applause as Dr. Joseph ended with a note of thanksgiving:
Evangelist Mathew Owojaye Calls Church Back to Christ-Centered Living
message from Evangelist Mathew Korode Owojaye titled “To Live Is Christ,” drawn from Philippians 1:21 — “For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”
Preaching with deep conviction, Evangelist Owojaye called on the Church to return to the original focus of the Gospel — living entirely for Christ and not for human applause or recognition. He lamented that modern Christianity has become characterized by self-exaltation and material pursuit rather than the pursuit of holiness and eternal values.
“When the Church was pure, we didn’t clap for men — we glorified God,” he said, stressing that the culture of celebrating individuals in worship rather than Christ Himself is a sign of spiritual backsliding.
Reading from Philippians 1:21, the Evangelist explained that the believer’s true purpose is to live for Christ alone. He emphasized that life without Christ at the center is meaningless, adding that “the reason for our living must be Christ — not applause, not recognition.”
The Church and the Nation
Quoting Matthew 5:13–14, Owojaye noted that Nigeria’s moral decay mirrors the condition of the Church. “If the nation is rotten, it is because the Church has lost her saltiness,” he said. He urged Christians to rise as the salt and light of the world to restore godly influence to the nation.
The Believer’s Assignment
From John 20:21 and Luke 19:13, he reminded the congregation that every believer is divinely posted into different fields — government, business, education, or the military — to represent Christ.
“We are deputies of Jesus Christ until He returns. If things are going wrong, we must take responsibility,” he declared.
Eternal Reward Over Earthly Gain
Referencing Revelation 22:12, the Evangelist urged believers to pursue eternal rewards rather than material success. “Jesus did not say, ‘I send My reward ahead.’ He said, ‘I come with it,’” he emphasized, adding that the apostles sought no earthly gain, but eternal glory.
He cautioned against excessive attachment to possessions, citing Matthew 16:26 and 2 Peter 3:10 to illustrate that “everything gathered on earth will melt away.” He challenged the congregation to reflect: “How much will the Antichrist inherit from you if the trumpet sounds today?”
Integrity in a Corrupt System
Reading from Romans 12:2 and Proverbs 10:9, Evangelist Owojaye addressed the challenge of maintaining integrity in a corrupt environment.
“To be a Christian policeman or civil servant in Nigeria is a great test,” he said. “You may be mocked for not collecting bribes, but your reward is great in heaven.” He encouraged believers to prioritize uprightness over financial gain.
Materialism and Its Dangers
Citing Luke 12:15, the Evangelist warned against materialism and the love of money, saying it destroys individuals and families. “A thief’s wealth makes his children thieves,” he noted, calling for a new generation that rejects corruption and embraces holiness.
The Nearness of Christ’s Return
From 1 Thessalonians 4:16–17 and Matthew 24:44, he reminded the Church of the nearness of the Lord’s return. “The trumpet may sound at any moment. When it does, your wealth will be left behind. Only your faithfulness will count,” he said solemnly.
Pastors’ Responsibility
In his charge to ministers, Owojaye referenced Luke 15:4–6, 20, emphasizing the duty of pastors to seek and restore the lost. “Pastors will give account for the souls under their care,” he warned, urging shepherds to demonstrate the Father’s love toward backslidden believers.
Endurance and Hope
Drawing from 2 Timothy 2:12 and Romans 8:18, the Evangelist encouraged believers to endure hardship for the sake of Christ. “We may suffer here, but we will reign with Him forever,” he affirmed. He concluded with a declaration of faith:
“We will not perish with the world. We will stand, endure, and reign with Christ forever.”
Conclusion
Evangelist Owojaye ended the service with a heartfelt call to repentance and readiness for Christ’s coming.
“Brethren, the trumpet may sound at any moment. Let us amend our ways and live fully for Christ,” he urged.
The service closed with prayers of rededication and commitment to live faithfully for God’s glory in all areas of life.
CORNERSTONE APOSTOLIC NETWORK
Raising Apostolic Voices — Restoring the Church to Her Foundation in Christ.