REV. AKAN ITANGA: A BEACON OF FAITH, LEADERSHIP AND HUMANITARIAN SERVICE

…As BRICC Honours Distinguished Clergyman for Outstanding Contributions to Humanity, Faith and Community Development

By Our Correspondent

The atmosphere was filled with gratitude, honour and celebration yesterday Saturday, June 20, 2026, as the Bright International Chaplain Corps (BRICC), during the establishment of the maiden unit of the Nigerian Military Christian Fellowship (NMCF), Ikot Ekpene Unit, bestowed an award of excellence on Rev. Akan Itanga in recognition of his immense contributions to humanity, faith, leadership development and community transformation.

The award ceremony, hosted at Mantle of Life Ministry International, Ikot Ekpene Town, was not only a celebration of an exceptional servant of God but also a recognition of a life devoted to the advancement of the Kingdom of God and the betterment of society.

Born to the family of Late Elder Okonna Udoudo Itanga of Nto Mba in Nto Abatekpe Family, Ikot Ekpene Village, Rev. Akan Itanga has consistently demonstrated excellence in both academics and ministry. He obtained his Diploma in Engineering from Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Owerri and later earned a Bachelor of Engineering degree from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.

Driven by a passion for effective leadership and church administration, he pursued ministerial studies at the Institute of Church Management, where he distinguished himself academically, graduating as the overall best student in his set and earning both Diploma and Degree qualifications in Church Management.

Before launching into full-time ministry, Rev. Itanga served faithfully under the mentorship of Rev. Dr. Steve Kalu, where he gained invaluable ministerial experience and spiritual formation. In obedience to God’s divine call, he established Mantle of Life Ministry International in 2010, a vision dedicated to restoring hope, transforming lives and equipping believers for effective Christian living.

Over the years, Mantle of Life Ministry International has grown into a vibrant spiritual centre known for sound biblical teaching, passionate worship, leadership development and impactful outreach programmes. The ministry has become a refuge for countless individuals seeking spiritual direction, healing, empowerment and purpose.

Under the leadership of Rev. Akan Itanga, the church has consistently extended its influence beyond the pulpit by engaging in community-focused initiatives, humanitarian services, pastoral care, youth mentorship and support for the less privileged. Through various interventions, lives have been touched, families strengthened and communities inspired to embrace values of peace, integrity and godliness.

One of the distinguishing features of Rev. Itanga’s ministry is his unwavering commitment to raising leaders. As the Convener of Relevant Ministers Network, he has provided mentorship, encouragement and strategic support to pastors and Christian leaders across different denominations. Through conferences, leadership seminars and ministerial engagements, he has helped nurture a new generation of spiritual leaders equipped to serve effectively in their various callings.

A well-travelled minister whose apostolic and teaching ministry has taken him to fourteen countries across the globe, Rev. Itanga continues to impact lives through conferences, revival meetings, leadership summits and missionary engagements. His international exposure has enabled him to bring global perspectives to local ministry while maintaining a deep commitment to community development and national transformation.

As an ardent lover of God and a Jerusalem pilgrim, Rev. Itanga’s life reflects a profound devotion to spiritual growth and biblical principles. He is also a prolific author whose eight inspirational books have continued to bless readers by offering practical guidance on faith, leadership, personal development and Christian living.

Beyond his ministerial accomplishments, Rev. Akan Itanga is a devoted family man. He is happily married to Pastor Mrs. Mfon Itanga, and together they are blessed with four wonderful children. Their family stands as a testament to the values of love, faith, discipline and service that they consistently promote through their ministry.

The decision by BRICC to honour Rev. Akan Itanga is therefore both timely and well deserved. His contributions to the body of Christ, community development, leadership empowerment and humanitarian service have left an enduring impact on countless lives. Through his selfless dedication, he has become a symbol of hope, integrity and servant leadership. As the Nigerian Military Christian Fellowship (NMCF), Ikot Ekpene Unit, commences its activities, the recognition of Rev. Akan Itanga serves as a reminder that true leadership is measured not merely by titles or positions but by the positive difference made in the lives of others.

Indeed, Rev. Akan Itanga’s remarkable journey of faith, service and sacrifice continues to inspire many. His life exemplifies the biblical principle that those who faithfully serve God and humanity leave legacies that transcend generations. For his unwavering commitment to God’s work, his dedication to humanity and his outstanding contributions to community development, Rev. Akan Itanga is deserving of every honour accorded to him. His story remains one of vision, excellence, compassion and transformative leadership. Congratulations to a worthy ambassador of Christ, a visionary leader and a distinguished servant of God whose impact continues to illuminate lives both within and beyond the shores of Nigeria.