The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) held its 2026 Diocesan Media and Communicators Conference in Onitsha, Anambra State, from June 23-26. The Missionary Diocese of Ogoja participated, represented by Diocesan Communicator Mr. Joseph Okache, showing its commitment to effective communication and digital evangelism. The conference, themed “The Watchman’s Trumpet: The Future of the Great Commission,” brought together media professionals for training, networking, and capacity building in Christian communication.
The conference began with a Holy Communion Service. The host Bishop, The Rt. Rev. Dr. Owen C. Nwokolo in his Sermon, emphasized the vital role of Christian communicators in bringing healing through truthful and godly communication. He urged them to maintain integrity, communicate with love, and avoid using church platforms for personal attacks, ensuring their messages glorify God and win souls. Bishop Nwokolo reminded participants that their calling extends to ministry, discipleship, and Kingdom advancement.
The Primate, Church of Nigeria, The Most Rev. Dr. Henry C. Ndukuba, represented by the Dean, Most Rev. Blessing C. Enyindah, officially declared the conference open. He also charged communicators to be proactive and strategic in managing Church information. Expressing concern over the Church’s slow response to misinformation, the Primate stressed the need for accurate, prompt, and effective communication. He urged them to be well-informed, technologically equipped, and spiritually grounded in the evolving media landscape. The Primate encouraged innovation, collaboration, and the use of all media platforms to advance the Gospel and safeguard Church integrity, reminding them of their role as watchmen.
Delivering an exposition on the conference theme, “The Watchman’s Trumpet,” from Ezekiel 33:1–7, Bishop Ephraim O. Ikeakor of the Diocese of Amichi emphasized that Christian communication is not optional but central to the mission of the Church. Describing the Great Commission as a crucial responsibility for believers, especially communicators, he noted that media practitioners occupy a strategic place in advancing the Gospel in today’s world.
The Bishop observed that society has shifted from analogue to digital systems, with media increasingly shaping people’s thoughts, values, and perspectives. He outlined three dimensions of the watchman: the person, the calling, and the trumpet, stressing that communicators must first possess a genuine relationship with Christ before directing others to Him. “Don’t point people to the Jesus you have not known,” he cautioned.
Bishop Ikeakor further stated that a watchman must be knowledgeable, proactive, and sensitive to the times, while using media platforms responsibly and professionally.
The conference features presentations, workshops, and discussions to strengthen the Church’s communication and enhance its capacity for evangelism and discipleship through modern media.
The Delegates from various Dioceses are expected to gain valuable insights and skills for effective Christian communication in the digital age.
Written by Joseph Okache,
The Diocesan Communicator Diocese of Ogoja, Anglican Communion