Calvary Baptist Church, Borikiri, Port Harcourt, rolled out the red carpet on Sunday, March 8, 2026, for a special Thanksgiving Service in honour of Professor Isaac Zeb-Obipi, Vice-Chancellor of Rivers State University (RSU), and Professor Teddy Charles Adias, immediate past Vice-Chancellor of Federal University Otuoke (FUO).
The event which held at the church auditorium on Etche Street, Borikiri, drew a large congregation comprising principal officers, management teams, and staff from both universities, as well as family members, friends, and well-wishers who joined to glorify God for His abundant grace and faithfulness in the lives and tenures of the two academic leaders.
In a powerful sermon themed around thanksgiving, the host pastor, Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Awortu, drew inspiration from Lamentations 3:22 to remind worshippers that it is by the Lord’s mercies that humanity is not consumed.
He stressed that every achievement in life flows from divine grace, urging believers to cultivate constant gratitude to God despite human frailties.
Rev. Awortu enumerated compelling reasons for thanksgiving, spotlighting God’s unfailing compassion, sustaining mercy, and steadfast faithfulness toward mankind.
During the thanksgiving segment, Prof. Zeb-Obipi poured out heartfelt appreciation to God for His guidance, protection, and faithfulness throughout his tenure.
He specially thanked the Visitor to the university for the confidence reposed in him via his appointment, as well as the immediate past Chairman of the Governing Council, Hon. Justice Mary Odili (rtd.), for her immense support.
The RSU helmsman also acknowledged the spiritual mentorship of several men of God, including Pastor David Ibiyeomie, while commending the cooperation and dedication of principal officers, management, staff, and workers of the university.
He reserved warm words for his wife and family for their unwavering prayers, encouragement, and understanding.
Looking ahead with optimism, Prof. Zeb-Obipi described the service as the launchpad for even greater accomplishments at RSU, expressing confidence that the next thanksgiving would witness far grander celebrations.
In his own remarks, Prof. Adias gave glory to God for a successful and fulfilling tenure at FUO, thanking the Almighty for divine guidance and faithfulness that saw him complete his assignment as Vice-Chancellor.
The service reached a high point with the presentation of special gifts to both professors by the church leadership in recognition of their exemplary leadership, dedication, and contributions to the academic sector and broader society.
