Felix Mbata, Lagos state
It was a gathering of faith, service and celebration as stakeholders from across Nigeria converged at the Lagos State Police Command for the 20th Anniversary of the Nigeria Police Force Chaplaincy.
The anniversary brought together Senior Police Officers, religious organizations, captains of industry, civilian chaplains and members of the public to honor two decades of spiritual impact within the Force.
In an exclusive interview with Christian Events Watch Magazine, Rev. Agina Joe, Head of Police Chaplaincy, Area ‘C’ Command, Surulere, Lagos, shared insights on the mandate of the chaplaincy, the transformation under CSP Ugbotor, and the urgent needs for the next phase.
With over 18 years in the vineyard of God, Rev. Agina spoke with passion about winning souls and providing more emotional and spiritual support to officers and their families.
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH REV. AGINA JOE Head of Police Chaplaincy, Area ‘C’, Surulere, Lagos
Sir can you introduce yourself and your role?
I am Rev. Agina Joe, the Head of Police Chaplain, Area ‘C’ Police Command, Surulere, Lagos.
How long have you been in the vineyard and what drew you to serve?
I’m over 18 years in the vineyard of God and as a chaplain. The Bible says the harvest is ripe but the labourers are few. The hunger to win souls for Christ is my driving force.
What is the core mandate of the Lagos State Police Command Chaplaincy?
The core mandate is to preach the gospel, win souls, and bring officers, their families, and everyone to our Lord Jesus Christ. The core mandate is to preach the good news to every race and tribe. The police provide the platform to access people of different races and tribes.
What key changes have you observed since CSP Ven. Ezekiel Ugbotor assumed leadership?
I have observed positive change. There is a good working relationship between him and pastors, church workers, members of the body of Christ, and every police personnel both at command level and outside.
How would you describe his style of leadership?
His leadership quality cannot be overemphasized. He is pastoral, administrative and missionary. I have seen him preach spirit-filled gospel, touching souls and delivering those oppressed by the devil.
What specific programs under his administration have impacted you most?
His administration has fostered smooth relationships between other religions, civilians and the chaplaincy. Every personnel can feel his positive and spirit-filled impact.
What areas should the chaplaincy strengthen next?
We should expand focus on more the emotional, psychological and spiritual well-being of officers through regular counselling and stress management programs.
What are the major challenges facing chaplaincy worldwide?
The basic need is financing — financial support to reach the public beyond the command. We also need emotional and moral support, and mobility for chaplaincy officials. Movement is very important.
What have you personally learnt from CSP Ugbotor’s administration?
Servant leadership, effective communication, and collaboration. Strong leadership is built not only on discipline and professionalism but also on empathy, accessibility and respect for others. This has helped me lead with humility.
Can you share a testimony from his leadership?
His emphasis on integrity, service and compassion has made me more committed in my ministry. It has strengthened my pastoral care and helped me build better relationships with personnel and the community.
Finally, your prayer for the next phase?
My prayer is that God should strengthen us spiritually and increase love among members. I pray that God continues to assist the Nigeria Police Force and Lagos State Police Chaplaincy. May the good efforts of the Police go to the world through live TV broadcast and social media. And at the end, may we all make heaven. In Jesus Name, Amen.
Conclusively, the 20th Anniversary of the NPF Chaplaincy in Lagos was more than a celebration — it was a recommitment to the mission of taking the gospel to those in uniform and beyond.
Under CSP Ven. Ezekiel Ugbotor, the Lagos State Command Chaplaincy has become a bridge between the Force, the church, and the community.
As Rev. Agina Joe noted, the work ahead requires greater support for the emotional and spiritual welfare of officers. With servant leadership and divine backing, the chaplaincy is poised to reach even more lives.
The Unique Model Magazine and Christian Events Watch celebrate this milestone and pray for greater impact in the years ahead.