The Carpenter’s Church has announced the passing of its presiding pastor, Pastor Mrs. Nkechi Chinyere Ene, describing her transition as a great loss to the church and to the entire body of Christ.
In a statement issued by Pastor Sola Akinwale on behalf of the church, Pastor Ene was said to have passed away on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, shortly after returning from an extensive ministry trip which the church described as being “marked by miracles and testimonies.”
According to the statement, the Port Harcourt-based pastor experienced a sudden health crisis while in Lagos soon after her return to Nigeria.
“It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing into glory of God’s servant, our presiding pastor, our mother-in-Israel, Pastor Nkechi Ene,” the statement read. “As our hearts hurt and questions assail our minds, we rest assured in the unwavering truth that God is good and His mercies endure forever.”
A Life of Faith and Service
Pastor Ene was widely regarded as a woman of deep faith and conviction, whose ministry was defined by an unwavering commitment to the Word of God.
She served as Presiding Pastor of The Carpenter’s Church, one of the leading Pentecostal congregations in southern Nigeria, known for its emphasis on practical Christianity, the teaching of the Word, and the manifestation of the Holy Spirit.
Church members and followers around the world have been sharing tributes on social media, describing her as “a general of God” and “a teacher who lived what she preached.”
“She lived and believed the Word of God till the very end,” the church said. “She has now heard the words from her Master: ‘Well done, good and faithful servant.’”
Under her leadership, The Carpenter’s Church grew into a vibrant ministry with an active global outreach, supported by digital media, international conferences, and teaching missions. Pastor Ene was known for her powerful sermons that combined biblical insight with practical lessons on faith, perseverance, and godly living.
Global Ministry and Influence
Beyond Port Harcourt, Pastor Ene’s influence reached believers in the UK, Europe, and the United States, where she held teaching sessions and revival meetings.
Her popular message themes—faith, healing, prosperity, and walking in purpose—made her one of the most respected female voices in Nigeria’s Pentecostal movement.
In addition to her pastoral duties, she was also known for her motivational messages and community outreach initiatives. On social media, she frequently shared faith-based reflections, urging followers to build inner strength and trust in God’s promises.
One of her popular messages read:
“Your mouth, your memory, and the strength of your spirit are critical to your survival.”
Family and Church Community in Mourning
The church’s statement called for prayers and support for her family—her husband, Brother Emeka Ene, and their daughters Zoe, Chloe, Tracy, and Osi. Condolences were also extended to her mother, Ma Mercy Chijioke, and her siblings.
“As a church family, we acknowledge that this is a very challenging time for us,” the statement said. “At times like these, we must embrace, comfort, and encourage one another, starting with our pastor’s family.”
Despite the pain of her passing, the church expressed gratitude to God for what it described as an “excellent and productive life well lived.”
“We honour and celebrate one of the great generals of God in our generation—one who lived and taught the undiluted Word of God, danced with the Holy Spirit, and by precept and example taught us to do the same,” Pastor Akinwale said.
Enduring Legacy
Pastor Nkechi Ene’s legacy, church members say, will continue to inspire generations of believers. Through her teachings, books, and online ministry, she helped countless Christians grow in faith and understanding of the Word.
“Though now absent from us, her impact and legacy endure in our hearts and in our lives,” the church noted. “We celebrate God’s general, our mother-in-Israel, Pastor Mrs. Nkechinyere Ene. The Lord is good, and His mercies endure forever.”