Dr. Favour Ugwuanyi expressed her profound admiration and respect for Apostle Nwoye, hailing him as a "Man of Grace, man of power, man of love, and man of blessings." She emphasized the joy and pride felt by the Christian community, particularly those from the Igbo land, in celebrating such a monumental figure. "It’s a thing of joy in my heart and the hearts of those that worship God to see a man, especially from Igbo land, with God’s grace upon him, to live and be the oldest Pentecostal preacher and the first in the Eastern region. Today, he remains the oldest preacher in Nigeria," Dr. Favour remarked.
In her heartfelt tribute, Evangelist Ugwuanyi highlighted the profound impact Apostle Nwoye has had on countless lives. "I’m so glad and so happy to know him and to be part of the family. He is a spiritual father to many. I give God all the glory. To all of Christendom, to be able to watch, believe, and see him alive today and to celebrate his 95th birthday," she said. She further described him as a gift to the people of Enugu State and Nigeria, underscoring the importance of recognizing his contributions to the faith and the community.
Apostle Nwoye's journey is indeed an inspiring testament to resilience and divine calling. Born on May 11, 1929, his early years were marked by hardship and struggle. His family’s economic challenges made even basic necessities a luxury. Despite these adversities, his life took a transformative turn when he encountered a small group of Christians in Numeh, leading to his conversion and lifelong commitment to serve God.
A significant milestone in his spiritual journey was meeting Rev. Hawkins, the General Superintendent of The Apostolic Church, who baptized him in Asata River in 1951. This event solidified his faith and set the stage for his future ministry. By 1953, Apostle Nwoye was serving as an interpreter for U.S.-based missionary Rev. Thomas Wyatt and his wife, a role that affirmed his call to full-time ministry.
Apostle Nwoye pursued theological education, enrolling in the Theological Training School in Aramoko Ijesha, Osun State, and later obtaining an Advanced Certificate in Theology from the Christ Apostolic Pastoral Institute in Ibadan. His ministry began to flourish despite ethnic tensions within the church leadership, which eventually prompted him to establish the Christ Ascension Church in Isiogbo Nara, Nkanu East Local Government Area of Enugu State.
Under his leadership, the CAC grew into a powerful spiritual movement that extended beyond the South East, reaching global recognition. Apostle Nwoye’s legacy includes being the first Pentecostal preacher east of the Niger River, a testament to his pioneering spirit and unwavering faith.
His personal life, marked by the loss of his beloved wife and ministry partner, Mrs. Cecelia Nwoye, over a decade ago, also highlights his resilience. Despite this profound loss, he continued to lead and inspire. He is the father of 11 children, with six surviving and thriving, including notable figures such as the former deputy governor of Enugu State, Rev. Ralph Nwoye and Bishop Chinedu Nwoye, the Former Senior Special Adviser to the former Governor of Enugu State.
The celebration of Apostle Nwoye’s 95th birthday is not just a personal milestone but a significant moment for the entire Pentecostal community in Nigeria. As Dr. Favour Ugwuanyi aptly noted, the grace and blessings that emanate from his life and ministry continue to inspire and uplift many, ensuring his legacy endures for generations to come.
