NEWS
GOV. OTTI, WIFE STORM PORT HARCOURT FOR GRAND BOOK LAUNCH AS GOVERNOR CHAMPIONS READING CULTURE, URGES HOPE AMID NATIONAL CHALLENGES
The Executive Governor of Abia State, His Excellency, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, alongside his wife, Her Excellency, Mrs. Priscilla Chidinma Otti, on Sunday, May 3rd, 2026, graced the official launch of “Shadows of the End,” the seventh and retirement book authored by renowned and cerebral Seventh-day Adventist preacher and teacher, Pastor Dr. Dave Nyekwere.
The well-attended literary and spiritual event, held at the prestigious Presidential Hotel in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, drew dignitaries, scholars, clerics, and admirers of the prolific author, marking yet another milestone in Pastor Nyekwere’s decades-long journey of impactful ministry and intellectual contribution.
Speaking at the occasion, Governor Otti, who revealed that he had consistently attended all six previous book launches by Pastor Nyekwere, lauded the cleric’s remarkable consistency, discipline, and unwavering commitment to reading and writing despite his age and long years in ministry.
The Governor underscored the importance of cultivating a reading culture as a foundation for intellectual growth and effective writing, lamenting what he described as a growing decline in reading habits among many individuals.
“Before you can write, you must read. And this is not passing judgment on anyone. But, the truth is that a lot of us have stopped reading.
“A lot of us have become impatient, even with writing. Even when we are taking notes, the way we take notes is such that it has become difficult to apply hardwork,“ Governor Otti stated.
Encouraging attendees to take full advantage of the intellectual value embedded in the new publication, the Governor urged them to not only purchase and read the book but also engage in thoughtful reviews and share their insights widely.
He further stressed that neglecting reading places individuals at a disadvantage, regardless of their academic qualifications, emphasizing that personal development should never be sacrificed on the altar of busyness.
Beyond intellectual discourse, Governor Otti used the platform to address the prevailing socio-economic realities in the country, calling on Nigerians to remain hopeful and proactive in shaping a better society.
“Yes, things are difficult, but should we adjust to the difficulties? The answer is not yes, because, that is not the normal order of things.
“So, we have a responsibility to contribute our own quota to ensure that we get the world that we want,“ Governor Otti added.
Drawing spiritual reflections from the Seventh-day Adventist hymn “Jesus is Coming Again,” the Governor noted that many contemporary global developments had long been foretold in prophetic writings, urging individuals to remain spiritually conscious and prepared.
The 293-page book, “Shadows of the End,” was reviewed by Professor Justin Gabriel, who described it as a profound theological work that interprets modern global realities through a spiritual lens.
According to him, the book presents a compelling argument that current global crises are interconnected and indicative of a larger, prophetic culmination.
“Nyekwere’s central claim is clear, the convergence of modern crisis; geopolitical, environmental, technological and moral, constitute not mere coincidence but a discernable partern…
“The book invites readers to read the present age not as an aberration of history but as its culmination,“ Professor Gabriel stated.
In his remarks, Pastor Nyekwere reflected on his long-standing relationship with Governor Otti, tracing their connection back to their days at the University of Port Harcourt over four decades ago. He acknowledged the Governor’s consistent support for his literary and ministerial work since the 1990s.
The cleric also shared testimonies of divine guidance throughout his over 40 years in pastoral ministry, highlighting his commitment to spreading the gospel and impacting lives across Nigeria and beyond.
Addressing contemporary societal challenges, Pastor Nyekwere spoke candidly about the resistance often faced by truth in public life, drawing parallels with the experiences of leaders such as Governor Otti and Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
“Wherever the truth is standing, the demon will fight the truth,” he remarked, expressing concern over what he described as a growing global tendency to celebrate wrongdoing despite its damaging consequences.
The event also featured the unveiling of the book by Mrs. Jenifer Ijere, Founder and Managing Director of Trucking Land & Sea Nigeria Ltd, who served as the Chairperson of the occasion.
Delivering a heartfelt vote of thanks, Shepherdess Dabotha R. Nyekwere, wife of the author, expressed deep appreciation to Governor Otti and his wife for their unwavering support and close relationship with their family. She noted that Abians are fortunate to have such leadership, describing the ongoing developmental strides in the state as a reflection of the Governor’s character and commitment to service.
Earlier on his arrival in Rivers State, Governor Otti made a brief stop at the Government House, Port Harcourt, where he was received by the Executive Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, in what was described as a moment of cordial inter-state engagement.
Also upon arrival at the venue of the event, Governor Otti was warmly received by Brigadier General Obinna Uzodinma Eke, Commander of the 46 Engineer Brigade, 6 Division of the Nigerian Army, Port Harcourt Barracks.
The Governor was accompanied by key members of his administration, including the Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Engr. Ikechukwu Monday; Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Elder Goodluck Ubochi; and the Special Adviser on Internally Generated Revenue, Elder Emmanuel Okpechi.
Pastor Nyekwere, whose previous works include End Time Lectures, Taking Tough Decisions, and Stomaching Nonsense, continues to leave an enduring legacy at the intersection of faith, intellect, and societal re
flection with the release of “Shadows of the End.”