The Methodist Church Nigeria, Diocese of Uzuakoli, Alayi Circuit, on Sunday, August 16, 2026, conferred a special recognition on humanitarian and philanthropist Dr. Chimaobi Desmond Anyaso, OFUJI, naming him “Friend of Alayi Circuit.”
Dr. Anyaso, who is also the Labour Party candidate for Bende Federal Constituency, received the award during the Sunday service at the Alayi Circuit headquarters. The service was well attended by clergy, circuit officials, lay leaders, and members of the congregation who gathered to witness the presentation.
Presenting the award, the church said the honour was in appreciation of Dr. Anyaso’s “selfless service and significant contributions to the advancement of the Gospel of Christ and Methodism” within Alayi and across Bende Local Government Area.
The award plaque was handed to Dr. Anyaso before church leaders and members. It bore the signatures of Sis. Esther Okoronkwu, Circuit Steward, and the Very Rev. Michael O. …, Presbyter of Alayi Circuit, who jointly endorsed the recognition on behalf of the circuit.
Speaking after the presentation, church leaders noted that the recognition reflects the Methodist Church’s tradition of acknowledging individuals whose lives and resources have consistently supported the work of ministry. They highlighted Dr. Anyaso’s interventions in Bende, particularly his support for church projects, community development initiatives, and programmes aimed at uplifting the less privileged.
“The Church has watched with gratitude how you have used your platform and resources to advance the Gospel, support our institutions, and bring succour to our people,” a church official stated during the ceremony. “This honour is our way of saying thank you and encouraging you to do more.”
In his response, Dr. Anyaso expressed deep appreciation to the Methodist Church Nigeria, Diocese of Uzuakoli, and the entire Alayi Circuit for the recognition. He described the honour as humbling and as a call to greater service.
“I am grateful to God, to the leadership of the Methodist Church, and to the good people of Alayi Circuit for this recognition,” Dr. Anyaso said.
“Methodism has always stood for faith in action, for service to humanity, and for building strong communities. I pledge to continue to support initiatives that promote the Gospel, strengthen our communities, and contribute positively to the lives of our people, especially the youths and the vulnerable.”
He added that his commitment to humanitarian work is rooted in his Christian faith and in the belief that leadership must translate into tangible benefits for the people. He commended the church for its role in moral formation, education, and social development, and promised to partner more closely with the diocese on programmes that advance both spiritual growth and community welfare.
The “Friend of Alayi Circuit” honour is the latest in a growing list of recognitions accorded to Dr. Anyaso for his community-oriented activities. Over the years, he has been associated with support for schools, health outreaches, empowerment programmes, and faith-based institutions across Bende Federal Constituency.
Members of the congregation who spoke after the service described the award as well deserved, noting that Dr. Anyaso’s consistent engagement with the church and the community has made a visible impact.
The ceremony ended with prayers for Dr. Anyaso, his family, and for continued peace and progress in Bende and Abia State at large. Church leaders urged other well-meaning individuals to emulate the spirit of service exemplified by the honouree.
The recognition reinforces the Methodist Church’s call for partnership between faith institutions and private citizens in advancing the common good, and positions Dr. Anyaso among distinguished lay partners supporting the mission of the church in the Uzuakoli Diocese.
