On September 20, 2026, more than 170 people gathered for the inaugural service in Awka, marking the planting of Nigeria’s 20th church since Lagos in 1989. It is also the 36th church planted in the English-speaking West Africa Missions.
Awka is located 480 km (300 miles) from Lagos. In the days leading up to the service, the mission team in Awka welcomed more than 64 disciples from neighboring cities to help support the occasion. The church will be led by Kinni and Celestine Ugwu.
The team conducted Bible discussions across the city, including Nnamdi Azikiwe University. Each day began with devotionals, prayer, praise and worship before disciples went out to study the Bible with people. Evenings were spent sharing victory stories, encouraging one another and preparing for the next day.
The mission team also reached out to the community through a benevolence visit to Awka General Hospital on Saturday, September 19, distributing toiletries and demonstrating the love of Christ in practical ways.
Kemi Olufowobi, leader of the South-East Bloc in Lagos, preached the inaugural sermon from Acts 16:11–15. Drawing from the story of Lydia, he reminded the new church that when God opens a door, his people must step through it with faith and obedience. He said church planting and evangelism require willing hearts, a readiness to go where God leads and a church prepared to welcome those he brings.
The service concluded with great rejoicing as three women—Ifeyinwa Onuselogu, Divine Ibekeme and Agatha Moses—were baptized into Christ.
We are grateful to everyone who gave their time, prayers, resources, energy and presence to make the Awka church planting possible. May this new church continue to grow, reach families, transform lives, raise disciples and bless generations to come.
To God be the glory!
Watch the full service here.
