Nya-Etok Scripture Champions League rewards 60 winners in Bible recitation contest
• Arc. Ezekiel Nya-Etok (m) with some of the winners
The Nya-Etok Scripture Champions League, a Bible recitation program organized by Arc. Ezekiel Nya-Etok in Akwa Ibom, in commemoration of his 60th birthday, has achieved an impressive feat.
Last year, the League discovered over 400 talented Bible reciters who recited verses in quick succession, with 60 winners receiving grand prizes.
The overall winner, Philip Wonderful Okon, recited an astounding 450 verses, a feat that was hailed as groundbreaking.
During the awards ceremony at the FGN/Novone Dream Garden Estate in Uyo, weekend, where cheques and certificates were presented to the winners, Arc. Nya-Etok expressed his delight at the intellectualism, determination, and love for scripture reading that the program has unearthed among pupils and students at all levels of learning.
He emphasized that reading the Bible is not only a display of intellectual prowess but also the best way to foster a strong relationship with God.
Nya-Etok, who was the African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate in the 2023 general election, pledged to further promote the spiritual and intellectual growth of children and youths beyond Akwa Ibom by institutionalizing the Nya-Etok Scripture Champions League.
Nyaetok, who is the progenitor of Shelter Afrique, a popular housing estate in Uyo, also urged the winners and their parents to not only recite the Bible but also apply its teachings in their daily lives.
He said: “Bible recitation is like an Automated Teller Machine card. This card alone cannot withdraw money. So, it is useless. You must have a pin which makes the card useful, and with the two, you can withdraw money from ATM.
“For you to grow spiritually, you must read the Bible, and not only reading; you must apply the right verses in every situation.
“Our vision is to build a strong foundation of biblical understanding across all the educational levels. We believe that fostering love for God’s word from an early age is essential in personal development and a spontaneous community”.
He thanked all the team members of Nya-Etok Scripture Champions League who contributed to the success and eventual emergence of all the winners in the competition.
In an interview with correspondents, the overall winner, Philip Wonderful Okon, expressed his gratitude to Arc. Nya-Etok for his philanthropy towards the students of Akwa Ibom.
Okon expressed believed that the prize he received would motivate him to read the Bible more and strengthen his relationship with God.
He advised other children to embrace the discipline of reading scripture, as it opens doors of opportunity and brings blessings.
The top five winners, Philip Wonderful Okon, Prince Wonderful Okon, Amos Gladys, Ita UduakAbasi, and Christiana, received cash prizes ranging from N40,000 to N100,000. Additionally, over 248 other contestants were awarded their prizes and certificates.
Meanwhile, the success of the Nya-Etok Scripture Champions League has inspired the sponsor, Arc. Ezekiel Nya-Etok, to continue his efforts in promoting spiritual and intellectual growth among children and youths.
Those who attended the occasion said Nya-Etok’s dedication to this cause was commendable, adding that his program has undoubtedly made a positive impact on the participants.
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