By Owho Warri.
The National Leader and Head of Mission of the Gospel Church of Christ Worldwide, Archbishop Dr. Eric Emiaso JP, has formally retired as Bishop Dr. Benson Abrifor takes over the leadership of the Gospel Church of Christ as the head of mission.
The out gone Archbishop Eric U. Emiaso has assured Nigerians that God will intervene in the nation’s leadership crisis and restore peace, economic abundance, and justice.
Archbishop Emiaso stated this during a press conference to flag off the church’s 2025 National Convention, themed “The Finger of God”, held at the Headquarters Annex, Airport Road, Effurun, Delta State, Archbishop Emiaso noted that the country is currently facing unprecedented hardship and frustration, which called for divine interventions.
“There is too much hardship, too much frustration, too much suffering and hopelessness,” he lamented. “Enough is enough of these insecurities in Nigeria — the bloodshed, kidnappings, and other vices. It appears the government has come to its wits’ end and no longer knows what to do. The Almighty God is our last hope, and we must resort to Him for help before things fall apart.”
He stressed that the prayers of Christians had been instrumental in keeping Nigeria united despite decades of tribulation, explaining that “The Finger of God” represented the power of God in motion — to heal, deliver, and pass judgment on the oppressors and enemies of God’s people".
Archbishop Emiaso also revealed that the convention would witness a smooth leadership transition, as he hands over the headship of the mission to his successor, Bishop Benson Abrifor, after seven years as National Leader and over four decades as a member.
“This church is not a private property of one person or family like some others,” he stated. “It is a public church with a clear succession process, as laid down by our founder, Bishop Enoch Magbegor, who passed on in 2005.”
Highlighting the church’s 57-year history, he noted its growth in winning souls, expanding branches across Nigeria and abroad, and positively impacting lives. He credited the spirit of administration, fear of God, and dedication of past leaders for its steady progress.
Archbishop Emiaso recalled that the Gospel Church of Christ was among the 13 founding members of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) and had survived daunting challenges over the decades. He expressed confidence that competent leaders were now in place to sustain its spiritual and administrative advancement.
On his part, the new head of mission of Gospel Church of Christ world-wide, Bishop Dr Benson Abrifor has promised to pilot the affairs of the Church in accordance to the constitution regulating the Church activities.
While thanking God Almighty for his mercies and Grace for this opportunity to serve, he promised to carry members along in decision making as his office will be accessible all the time.
The three-day national convention featured several anointed ministers of God, including the current Head of mission of the Church, Bishop Dr. Benson Abrifor,Archbishop God Dowell Avwomakpa, Archbishop Prof. Solomon Gbakara, Bishop Dr. Rita Emiaso, Bishop Dr. Edward Emmanueta, and Revd. Jonathan Avwadjuyo
