03/10/2026
PRESS CONFERENCE REPORT
AFRICAN LADS AND LASSES BRIGADE (ALLB), AKWA IBOM STATE COMMAND
In Collaboration with the Cross River State Command
REPORT ON THE BURIAL OF HIS GRACE, LATE MOST REVEREND OFFIONG OFFIONG MENSAH, JP, PhD
Calabar, Cross River State β 2nd October, 2026
The African Lads and Lasses Brigade (ALLB), Akwa Ibom State Command, in collaboration with the Cross River State Command, was represented at the burial and final memorial rites of His Grace, Late Most Reverend Offiong Offiong Mensah, JP, PhD, a distinguished clergyman, teacher of the Word, and a respected leader in the Christian community.
His Grace, who was 60 years old, served as Chairman, Christian Council of Nigeria, Cross River State Chapter; Archbishop of Calabar Province; Bishop of Calabar Diocese; and Most Senior Archbishop of The African Church, Nigeria & Overseas.
The burial activities commenced with the opening of the mourning house on Monday, 28th September 2026, followed by visitation by friends, groups and well-wishers on Tuesday and Wednesday.
On Thursday, 1st October 2026, the funeral programme continued with a Service of Songs and Night of Tributes at the African Church Cathedral of Christ, 36 Macdonald Street, Calabar. The occasion provided an opportunity for members of the Church, organisations, family, friends and well-wishers to celebrate the life and legacy of the departed Archbishop.
FINAL BURIAL SERVICE
The Final Burial and Memorial Service was held on Friday, 2nd October 2026, at the African Church Cathedral of Christ, Calabar.
The ALLB Akwa Ibom State Command, working in collaboration with the Cross River State Command, was present to identify with the family, the Church and the Christian community during the solemn occasion.
The Brigade's presence demonstrated its respect for the late Archbishop and its commitment to standing with the Church and bereaved families during moments of grief. Members of the Brigade maintained discipline, decorum and the values of service, respect and Christian fellowship throughout the proceedings.
The funeral service brought together church leaders, clergy, family members, organisations, friends and well-wishers who gathered to pay their final respects to a man whose life was dedicated to the service of God and humanity.
TRIBUTE FROM ALLB
The African Lads and Lasses Brigade, Akwa Ibom State Command, expresses its heartfelt condolences to the family of His Grace, Late Most Reverend Offiong Offiong Mensah, the African Church, the Christian community and all those who mourn his passing.
His departure is deeply felt, but his contributions to the Church, his service to humanity and the values he upheld remain part of his enduring legacy.
The Brigade commends the family and the Church for the dignified funeral arrangements and prays for God's comfort, strength and peace upon all who mourn.
CONCLUSION
The ALLB Akwa Ibom State Command, in collaboration with the Cross River State Command, considers its participation in the burial rites a mark of honour, solidarity and respect for the life and service of His Grace, Late Most Reverend Offiong Offiong Mensah, JP, PhD.
May his gentle soul rest in the bosom of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
Issued by:
Office of the Publicity Secretary/Media
African Lads and Lasses Brigade (ALLB)
Akwa Ibom State Command
In collaboration with Cross River State Command