The Methodist Church of Nigeria has honoured the General Manager of the Enugu State Community and Social Development Agency (CSDA), Hon. Monday Diamond Ani, with its prestigious “Apostle of Faith Award” in recognition of his contributions to humanitarian service, community development and social welfare.
The award was presented by the Methodist Diocese of Akegbe, Aninri and Awgu (AAA Diocese), under the leadership of the Methodist Bishop of the Diocese, Rt. Rev. C. Orji.
According to the church, the honour was bestowed on Ani in appreciation of his years of selfless service and commitment to improving the lives of people at the grassroots through various community-focused interventions.
The church noted that the award reflects his dedication to service beyond politics and his sustained efforts toward promoting social development and community empowerment.
Ani, who is widely known by the sobriquet “Odoziobodo”—loosely translated as “one who builds and restores communities”—was praised for his passion for uplifting vulnerable groups and fostering development initiatives aimed at improving living standards across communities.
Church leaders described him as a public servant driven by a strong commitment to humanity, unity and the welfare of others, noting that his lifestyle exemplifies the Christian values of love, compassion and service.
They added that his humanitarian engagements align with Christ’s teachings on love for God and love for one’s neighbour, principles they said remain central to meaningful and purposeful living.
Due to his unavoidable absence at the event, the award was received on his behalf and later presented to him at his office by Dr. Okechukwu Animba, Vice President (South-East) of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU).
Reacting to the recognition, Ani expressed appreciation to the Methodist Bishop of the AAA Diocese, Rt. Rev. C. Orji, and members of the church for what he described as a thoughtful acknowledgement of his efforts in service to humanity.
He pledged to remain committed to initiatives that positively impact lives and strengthen communities.
Ani also prayed for greater grace and strength to continue serving the people and expanding the reach of his humanitarian interventions.
The CSDA General Manager further expressed gratitude to the Governor of Enugu State, Peter Mbah, for entrusting him with the leadership of the Community and Social Development Agency.
He noted that the agency plays a critical role in driving community interventions and grassroots development across the state, adding that the support of the governor has enabled the agency to advance its mandate of improving the welfare of communities and promoting inclusive development.
The award is the latest recognition of Ani’s contributions to community development and humanitarian service, areas in which he has earned widespread acclaim across Enugu State and beyond.
