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  • PFN set to engage Lagos communities on effective governance 

    PFN set to engage Lagos communities on effective governance 

    In a move widely described as a watershed in faith–governance engagement, the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Lagos State Chapter, has launched a strategic, statewide collaboration to promote accountable leadership, ethical governance, and social development across Lagos.

    The initiative, spearheaded by PFN Lagos State Chairman, Pastor Yemi Davids, alongside the Director of Politics and Intergovernmental Affairs, Dr. Akin Akinpelu, signals a bold and intentional repositioning of the church’s role in public life—from moral commentary to constructive partnership.

    Covering all 20 Local Government Areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas, the engagement underscores PFN’s resolve to work directly with grassroots institutions.

    Explaining the vision, Dr. Akin Akinpelu noted that the statewide tour is “transformational, not ceremonial.” 

    He stated that under Pastor David’s leadership, PFN Lagos is being reimagined as a credible bridge between faith-based values and civic administration, with a focus on ethical leadership, community responsibility, and good governance.

    “At the heart of the initiative is the New Dawn Agenda 2025, a strategic framework designed to deepen PFN’s relevance and impact in Lagos State”.

    He posited that the agenda rests on five pillars—reconciliation, relevance, revival, resources, and re-envisioning—aimed at fostering unity among churches, renewing spiritual vitality among leaders, ensuring sustainable resourcing for community impact, and reinforcing accountability, integrity, and character in leadership.

    Read Also: Christmas: PFN commends Governor Lawal over inclusive leadership 

    He stressed that the church must be recognized as a key stakeholder in nation-building, adding that direct engagement with local government leadership would help promote integrity, service, and excellence in public office, while encouraging mutual accountability between faith leaders and administrators.

    The six-week engagement features structured meetings with Local Government Chairmen, Secretaries to Local Governments, and other stakeholders. During these sessions, PFN will presents its mandate, advocates godly and ethical leadership, and identifies practical areas for collaboration—particularly in welfare delivery, education, peace-building, and social cohesion.

    Akinpelu further opined that the initiative was timely and strategic, especially as grassroots governance increasingly shapes citizens’ daily experiences. By engaging leadership at the closest level to the people, PFN aims to ensure that faith perspectives are constructively represented where policy meets lived reality.

    Akinpelu added that as PFN Lagos intentionally moves “from the church room to the boardroom and the council hall,” the fellowship reinforces its commitment to catalysing positive social change. 

    “The collaboration is expected to deepen church–government relations, open new advocacy channels, and contribute to a more just, accountable, and progressive Lagos State.

  • Ladoja elevates five High Chiefs, receives PFN delegation

    Ladoja elevates five High Chiefs, receives PFN delegation

    The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja on Friday elevated five High Chiefs on the Otun Olubadan line.

    The monarch called on all religious adherents globally to ensure peaceful co -existence irrespective of religious affiliations. 

    Oba Ladoja also advised the President Bola Tinubu and world political leaders to cooperate and allow peaceful co -existence to be their cardinal principles. 

    The monarch spoke when he received the President of Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN ), Bishop Francis Wale Oke who paid him a courtesy visit paid at the Oke Aremo, Palace Ibadan on Friday prior to the elevation ceremony of some high chiefs of the ancient city

    Speaking on the alleged Christian genocide in the country, the monarch  admitted that Nigeria is facing some security challenges.

    He said the insecurity as observed in many countries of the world affects all religious sects which should “neither be allowed to divide us nor be allowed to result to war that may lead to destruction of lives and properties.”

    He urged the PFN President to appeal to other Christian leaders, worldwide to preach peace and be brothers and sisters keepers.

    He called on President Tinubu to put more effort in ensuring that insecurity is reduced if not totally eradicated 

    Oke prayed God to give the monarch longevity of life in the service of God and humanity.

    He advocated an end to the reported killings, kidnapping and other vices in the country, noting Christians and Muslims are at the receiving ends of the heinous act.

    According to him, the killings in some part of the country affect all religions.

    The elevation of the High Chiefs done in accordance with the Ibadan Chieftaincy law was necessitated by the vacuum created on the line by the installation of Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland recently. 

    The affected High Chiefs were elevated to their next positions.

     Those elevated include: Oba Eddy Oyewole, who has assumed the position of Otun Olubadan; Oba Kola Daisi, (Osi Olubadan); Oba Hamidu Ajibade(Asipa Olubadan); Oba Murtala Adebayo Akande (Ekerin Olubadan) and High Chief Kola Babalola ( Ekaarun Olubadan)

    Oba Ladoja was formerly Otun Olubadan from the civil line otherwise known as Otun Olubadan line before his emergence as Olubadan.

    The newly elevated High Chiefs pledged their allegiance to Oba Ladoja as well their commitment to the development of Ibadanland.

  • Provide good governance, fix the economy, PFN urges gov’t

    Provide good governance, fix the economy, PFN urges gov’t

    …how Pentecostal fellowships contribute to education, nation-building

    The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) has called on the Federal Government to take urgent action to stabilise the naira, warning that its persistent depreciation is worsening the living conditions of Nigerians.

    PFN National President, Bishop Francis Wale Oke, made the appeal in Lagos on Tuesday during a press conference ahead of the fellowship’s 40th anniversary celebration scheduled for next month.

    Describing the current exchange rate as humiliating, Bishop Oke recalled how, in 1985, he obtained $865 with just N500 from the bank for his first foreign trip.

    He urged the government to establish cottage industries across all 774 local government areas and employ 500 youths in each, stressing that such a move would drive production, curb unemployment, and boost the economy.

     “When you devalue people’s money, you devalue their lives. I plead with the government to do everything within its power to enhance the value of the naira,” he said.

    On education, Oke urged increased funding and stricter monitoring of the sector to guarantee quality learning for all Nigerian children, lamenting how children, especially in the North, were still learning under the trees.

    He also called for reforms in the health sector, questioning why Nigerian leaders have continued to seek medical treatment abroad.

    The PFN leader proposed equipping at least one tertiary hospital in each of the six geopolitical zones to a world-class standard, both in infrastructure and personnel, to curb medical tourism and restore citizens’ confidence in the system.

    Continuing, Oke said there was a need for better pay and conditions for health workers to stem the exodus of professionals to other countries, urging the government to fully implement the new minimum wage.

    He also appealed to the government to address critical infrastructure, such as electricity, roads, railways, and to revive Nigerian Airways to boost national pride.

    On governance, the PFN president stressed that the anti-corruption fight must be impartial, with no sacred cows, urging total independence for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to guarantee credible elections.

    Speaking on the successes of the PFN since its establishment in 1985, Bishop Oke said spreading the Gospel to millions of people through evangelism and revival has helped to stop crime, immortality, and hopelessness from overwhelming society.

    He clarified insinuations that Faith-Based Organisations (FBOs) were building schools with exorbitant fees that average members cannot afford, noting that many of such institutions offer scholarships through the church’s foundation for qualified students who cannot afford the fees.

    “A lot is done behind the scenes that our faith doesn’t allow us to speak publicly about. Running a university is not a profitable venture. It is just our contribution to better the future of this country. The mission schools you talked about were founded by missionaries who got funding from their home countries.

    “In Nigeria, we are the home. We are the nation. We are the people generating everything. We’re not being sponsored from America or from anywhere…

    “We would like you to inform the people about the good sides. In our universities and institutions, there is zero tolerance for cultism. Sexual harassment is not tolerated, and there are no interruptions in the education calendar of the students…

    “We stand on two very serious pillars – academic excellence and moral/spiritual soundness. We make sure that we’re not producing educated crooks who will go to Africa to loot our treasury. We produce people with a moral compass based on core biblical values,” he added.

    On activities to celebrate its 40th anniversary, Bishop Oke said the association would unveil a new legacy headquarters in Abuja during its weeklong festivities.

    He said there were also plans to review PFN’s Constitution to standardize the Pentecostal doctrine to minimize controversies, adding that there would be holistic development of the directorate of politics and governance

    Okey also dismissed claims that the PFN had been silent on national issues, especially insecurity, noting that aside from speaking, the PFN has set aside special days to pray for the country so that God will reveal the sponsors of the killings.

    Bishop Oke was joined in the press conference by National Planning Committee chairman, Bishop Taiwo Adelakun; former Secretary of PFN, Archbishop Joseph Ojo; PFN Jos chairman, Dr Stephen Dangana, and PFN Lagos Chairman, Pastor Yemi Davids.

  • PFN Lagos chair marks one year, highlights achievements, future plans

    PFN Lagos chair marks one year, highlights achievements, future plans

    The Lagos State Chairman of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Rev. Yemi Davids, has described his first year in office as a season of reconciliation, restructuring, and renewed relevance for Pentecostal churches in the state.

    Speaking on Thursday ahead of PFN’s one-year thanksgiving service scheduled for Sunday at Global Impact Church, Ogudu, Rev. Davids said the milestone provided an opportunity to share the fellowship’s journey so far and outline its vision for the future.

    “In the last one year, people now have something they can compare with or assess in terms of what we have done. This platform is to communicate our progress and what we are looking at in the next one or two years. There is always room for improvement, and we want feedback that will help us do better,” he noted.

    Rev. Davids explained that his leadership inherited internal tensions within PFN Lagos, but a deliberate reconciliation effort — including the re-inauguration of provincial leaders across the state — has since restored calm and unity within the body.

    “We encouraged inclusiveness and love. Some who were disgruntled were brought back. Today, the PFN in Lagos has a new outlook of calmness and commitment,” he said.

    The chairman stressed that one of PFN’s greatest challenges was proving its relevance to ordinary members and churches. 

    Over the past year, he said, PFN Lagos launched initiatives to reorient leaders through training, including a citywide ministers’ conference that drew over 2,000 pastors.

    “PFN should not be a redundant place where lazy pastors gather but a place of responsibility and leadership,” he declared.

    Read Also: PFN president, Ashimolowo, others to grace WOCOM’s triple celebrations in Ibadan

    He also highlighted the Benue Relief Project, where PFN Lagos mobilized 60 tons of relief materials for displaced persons in Benue State.

    “That campaign sent a clear message that Lagos PFN is blessed to be a blessing, not just within the state but beyond,” Rev. Davids noted.

    Davids emphasized the importance of spiritual renewal, saying PFN must remain faithful to its Pentecostal roots. 

    He recalled with joy the “Go Crusade” held across Lagos provinces, which saw many people surrender their lives to Christ and undergo follow-up discipleship.

    “When a young man’s heart is transformed, he behaves better in society, at work, and at home. That spiritual impact is our greatest contribution to Nigeria,” he said.

    Davids lamented that the significant social contributions of churches in Lagos often go unnoticed due to poor publicity. He revealed that PFN Lagos is investing more in media campaigns to showcase the role of churches in providing scholarships, widows’ support, community development, and even infrastructure.

    “We want Lagosians to know the impact churches are making. Better communication will help balance public perception,” he explained.

    The PFN Lagos leader assured members that the coming years would be marked by stronger collaborations with government, other Christian bodies, and communities. He also pledged more training, outreach, and social interventions to deepen PFN’s impact.

    “The New Dawn agenda is progressing. The impact we have seen is just the beginning. In the next one year, it will be bigger and better,” Davids concluded.

  • Adeboye, PFN, Olubadan eulogise GOFAMINT GO at 90

    Adeboye, PFN, Olubadan eulogise GOFAMINT GO at 90

    Prominent religious and political leaders, including the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye; President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Bishop Wale Oke; Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin; and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, have paid glowing tributes to the General Overseer of Gospel Faith Mission International (GOFAMINT), Pastor Elijah Oludele Abina, on the occasion of his 90th birthday.

    The milestone celebration was held on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at the church’s national headquarters in Ibadan, Oyo State.

    In his tribute, Pastor Adeboye described Pastor Abina as a man of uncommon impact and grace, whose long life is a divine reward for being a vessel of blessing to humanity. 

    He said Abina’s leadership within the Christian fold has been exemplary and celebrated his unwavering commitment to the faith.

    “I rejoice with you on this great milestone. Your life has been a testimony of God’s faithfulness, and Christendom is proud of your legacy. May you continue to grow stronger in the Lord and finish well,” Adeboye said.

    Bishop Wale Oke, in his remarks, hailed Pastor Abina as one of the founding fathers, a trustee, and a member of the National Advisory Council of the PFN. 

    He praised him for being a pillar of faith, godly wisdom, and unwavering commitment to the gospel.

    “Pastor Abina’s influence within the body of Christ, especially in the PFN, has left an indelible mark, defined by integrity, soul-winning zeal, and relentless pursuit of unity in the Church across Nigeria,” Oke said.

    Other dignitaries also showered accolades on the nonagenarian, highlighting his enduring legacy of faith, service, and leadership.

    “Your life continues to bear abundant fruit and your impact remained ever vibrant and relevant.”

    He however pray that God will continue to strengthened the celebrant, uphold him in divine health and bless him with many more fruitful years of impactful service in the vineyard.

    Oba Olakulehin in his congratulatory message fecilitated with the celebrant on attainment of his new age, saying his impact in Christendom can not be overemphasized.

    The monarch urged people to continue praying for Ibadanland, Oyo State, Yorubaland and Nigeria at large.

    Dignitaries at the event include the General Overseer, Foursquare Gospel Church, Dr. Sam Aboyeji, Oyo State Chairman, Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Rev. Samson Ajetunmobi, Oba Owolabi Owokulehin, Olubadan of lbadan, Oba Adedapo George Akande, Olusi of Usi Ekiti, Hon Olusegun Olayiwola, Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology.

    Others are: Rev Sunday Akingbelure, General Overseer, Total Gospel Bible Church, Prophet Adebisi Peter Abiola, General Overseer, Champion of Fire

    Ministry, Assistant Commandant of Corps, and the Oyo State NSCDC Commandant, Augustine Pado nu among others.

  • PFN canvasses prayers, repentance, righteous living for nation building

    PFN canvasses prayers, repentance, righteous living for nation building

    The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) has reiterated its call for prayer, repentance, and righteous living in the face of current situations in the country.

    According to the Fellowship, through prayer, fasting, and the preaching of the Word, the people can build a just society, noting that darkness cannot overcome light.

    The National President of the Fellowship, Bishop Francis Wale Oke made the call during the PFN National Executive Retreat tagged Uyo 2025 in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital.

    The retreat, which also heralds the 40th anniversary of the PFN scheduled for October 27, 2025, has as its theme: ‘PFN: Yesterday, today and tomorrow’. 

    Read Also: PFN urges Tinubu to end killings, end banditry in Nigeria 

    Expressing deep concerns over the prevailing economic and social challenges in the country, which he said urgent divine intervention, the cleric said only God’s intervention can rescue Nigeria.

    In a statement by the Director of Media and Publicity to Bishop Wale Oke, Akinwale Aboluwade, the event is focused on rededicating the nation to God for spiritual and national renewal.

    Oke was quoted as saying, in the statement, “This year marks 40 years of the PFN’s founding. God has used the Fellowship to impact Nigeria in many ways. We are here to celebrate God’s goodness with praise, prayer, and the word. We believe God will use PFN as His instrument of mercy to deliver Nigeria.”

    He noted that the country is at a critical juncture, citing widespread insecurity, economic instability, the declining value of the naira, and increasing emigration, popularly known as the ‘Japa syndrome.’

    “We are at the threshold of history. Nigeria faces many existential threats. But we know the pillars of the earth belong to the Lord. If He steps in, there shall be light,” he said, quoting 1 Samuel 2:8.

    Oke emphasized the role of the Church in national healing, referencing 2 Chronicles 7:14. “The time to act is now. May the PFN be God’s instrument of mercy in this season.”

    He urged PFN members to use the retreat to strategize for the remaining three years of the current administration and to intensify their spiritual efforts at all levels—national, state, and local.

    “We must not continue like this. A change is coming, and though we don’t know how God will do it, we believe He answers prayers.”

  • PFN urges Tinubu to end killings, end banditry in Nigeria 

    PFN urges Tinubu to end killings, end banditry in Nigeria 

    The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to fully exercise his constitutional authority as Commander-in-Chief by taking decisive action against the rising tide of banditry and terrorism across the country.

    Speaking in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Wednesday, PFN President, Bishop Francis Wale Oke, decried the continued bloodshed—particularly in Benue State—describing the killings as “mindless” and “satanic,” and completely at odds with God’s purpose for Nigeria.

    “The killings across the nation, especially in Benue, are heartbreaking,” Bishop Oke said. “The federal government must live up to its responsibility. Nigerians voted for a Commander-in-Chief, not a Mourner-in-Chief.”

    He dismissed claims that the perpetrators are foreigners, insisting such excuses are unacceptable. “Even if they are foreign elements, it is still the duty of government to wipe them out.”

    The PFN’s call comes in the aftermath of fresh attacks in Kwara, Benue, and Sokoto States, where at least 21 people were reportedly killed by suspected bandits. 

    These incidents form part of a disturbing trend of violence also seen in Plateau, Enugu, and other parts of the country in recent weeks.

    Bishop Oke also criticised what he termed a lack of political will to end the carnage, warning that continued inaction threatens the country’s stability and undermines public confidence in leadership.

    “The idea that the killers are foreigners doesn’t hold water. The Nigerian government must defend the country’s territorial integrity. They know who is behind the killings but are not sincere enough to act. They lack the political will,” he added.

    Read Also: PFN mourns Pope Francis, declares day of Prayer to honour his legacy

    The PFN President also criticized National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, for saying the Tinubu administration inherited a “bastardised situation” dating back 15 years. 

    He urged Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to move beyond rhetoric and take concrete action to restore security.

    “Someone is clearly misleading the President, and if he truly doesn’t know what’s happening, then those responsible should be held accountable and replaced with capable individuals who genuinely care about the Nigerian people,” Bishop Oke added. “The killings must stop.”

    He also expressed concern that some perpetrators are being shielded due to ethnic affiliations or perceived immunity.

    “There are sacred cows being protected because they are seen as kinsmen from across the border. The government must rise above ethnic sentiments and decisively root out those behind these atrocities. Let Nigerians live in peace—whatever it takes.

    “This is the demand of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria. We are tired of the killings,” he concluded.

  • PFN mourns Pope Francis, declares day of Prayer to honour his legacy

    PFN mourns Pope Francis, declares day of Prayer to honour his legacy

    The President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Bishop Francis Wale Oke, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Pope Francis, describing him as a “global symbol of peace, unity, and unwavering faith.”

    In a solemn statement issued on Monday, Bishop Oke extended heartfelt condolences on behalf of the entire Pentecostal community in Nigeria to the Catholic Church worldwide. 

    He announced that PFN churches across the country would observe a special day of prayer to honour the late pontiff and to intercede for the Catholic Church during this period of transition.

    According to Bishop Oke, the Pope’s passing is not only a profound loss to Catholics but to the entire global Christian community and humanity as a whole. 

    “He stood for truth, love, and dialogue among faiths. The Pope was a bridge builder, a man who laboured tirelessly for a better, more compassionate world,” he said.

    He emphasised that Pope Francis’ leadership transcended denominational boundaries, often resonating deeply with Christians of all traditions. 

    “In him, we saw a shepherd who embraced the world with fatherly warmth. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of believers,” the PFN leader added.

    Bishop Oke also recalled the Pope’s efforts to foster interfaith dialogue and global peace, highlighting his outreach to Pentecostal leaders as a significant step toward healing decades-long divisions and fostering unity within the body of Christ.

    He further praised the Pope’s humility, recalling how he chose to live simply and shun excessive opulence often associated with high religious office. “His lifestyle was a profound message in itself, and many of us across the divide took inspiration from his example.

    “Our hearts are with our Catholic brothers and sisters at this time. We mourn with you and stand with you in faith,” he stated.

    While acknowledging doctrinal differences between the two major Christian bodies, Bishop Oke emphasized the need for unity in moments of grief and reflection. “Now more than ever, we must remember that we are one in Christ. The world needs to see the Church united in love and mutual respect.”

    Read Also: Italy declares five days of mourning for Pope Francis

    Oke encouraged the Catholic faithful to take solace in the enduring impact of the Pope’s spiritual and moral leadership, adding that “he ran his race with grace and finished strong. His legacy will continue to speak in churches, in homes, and in hearts across the world,”

    The PFN President also called on other Christian leaders, especially in Nigeria, to issue similar messages of solidarity to strengthen the bonds among the various denominations. “In this season of mourning, may the Church be a shining example of love, not division,” he appealed.

    As tributes pour in from religious and political leaders across the globe, the PFN joins millions in celebrating a life lived in service to God and humanity, affirming that though the Pope has departed, his voice echoes still—in calls to peace, justice, and the undying hope of eternal life.

  • ‘Why PFN is key player in national affairs’

    ‘Why PFN is key player in national affairs’

    Stakeholders in Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) have said the body has stepped up beyond the pulpit under Bishop Wale Oke, making it a key player in national affairs.

    They said PFN was no longer just a religious group, but also shaping policies, driving social change and strengthening churches nationwide.

    Public affairs analyst, Adeniyi Ifetayo, said one of its biggest initiatives of Bishop Oke was the Greater Nigeria Crusade, adding that the programme mobilised clerics and believers to pray for the country,

    He said the programme, which was held in Anambra, Akwa Ibom and Rivers states, attracted thousands of people, reaffirming PFN’s commitment to national transformation.

    Speaking about the successes of Bishop Oke, Ifetayo said:  “Another major project is the North-South Support Initiative. Southern churches are now providing funds and infrastructure for struggling churches in the North. A special PFN directorate oversees the programme, making it one of the fellowship’s most impactful interventions.

    “PFN has become a humanitarian force. It played a key role in responding to floods in Maiduguri, Borno State capital, giving relief materials to victims. This marks a shift from strictly religious work to national welfare.

    Read Also: PFN president Oke elevates Rev. Funke Adejumo to Bishop

    “In 2023, the biennial PFN Conference in Bayelsa State was a success. Thousands attended, including Pastor Enoch Adeboye, Bishop David Oyedepo and Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai. The event strengthened unity among Christian leaders.’’

    Ifetayo said PFN’s national secretariat in Lagos was undergoing restructuring.

    He said the goal was to modernise operations for better efficiency.

    He added: ‘’PFN is taking a stand on national issues. Under Bishop Oke, it has become a fearless defender of Christian values. This shift has restored confidence among Christians.

    “Bishop Oke is not just leading PFN, he is also transforming it. With bold leadership, social engagement and strategic reforms, the fellowship is now a powerful force, shaping Nigeria’s future.”

  • PFN urges pastors to prioritise community impact over titles

    PFN urges pastors to prioritise community impact over titles

    The Lagos Chairman of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) Pastor Yemi Davids has called on church leaders to concentrate on creating a lasting impact in their communities and congregations, asserting that genuine leadership is rooted in service rather than the quest for recognition.

    Davids gave this advice at the Lagos Pastors and Ministers Conference with the theme: ‘New dawn’  at the Household of David in Ikeja, Lagos.

    According to Davids: “Our legacy as leaders in both the church and the nation will be defined by our impact. Titles will fade, but the difference we make in the world will endure. When our time in leadership is done, what will be remembered are not the titles we held, but the lives we changed, the hope we inspired, and the faith we nurtured.”

    Reflecting on the urgent needs of the community, he stated: “People didn’t care what my title was when they were hungry, cold, and displaced. They needed help, and that is what we must focus on—providing relief and giving hope and reconciliation that Christ brings to the world.”

    He urged leaders to remind the youths that it is not the grandeur of a title that matters, but the depth of one’s contribution. “Leadership is about sacrifice, about being the hands and feet of God in the world. Titles can be given or taken away, but the impact lasts forever.”

    He encouraged church leaders to emulate Jesus by prioritizing the needs of their congregations, ensuring their efforts glorify God and enrich the community rather than seeking personal recognition. 

    “There are people who won’t hear the gospel until they see the good works we are doing. This is the reality of our country today; people don’t want to hear sermons; they want to see action.”

    Read Also: PFN commiserates Gov Eno on wife’s death

    Davids reiterated the church must continue to be the salt and light of the world, explaining that true relevance for the church lies in its community impact. 

    “The church just needs to be the church. When you shine your light, darkness will recede. We have more rescuing to do as a church, especially for the nation itself.”

    He further called on leaders to embrace their roles as agents of change, stating, “Relevance means different things to different leaders. For some, it’s about good works; for others, it is about character. But the key is that, as leaders, we must be salt and light. A changed leader will impact their community, and that impact will trickle down.”

    Expressing confidence that God is working through the church to facilitate the change Nigeria desperately needs, Davids shared ongoing efforts to establish doctrinal standards and statements of faith to help leaders stay focused. 

    Tele-evangelist, Apostle Joshua Selman emphasised the importance of genuine healing and transformation over titles. “It’s not so much about titles, but about the impact we make. A professor remains a professor even without declaring his title—it’s his impact that shows his worth.”

    He stressed the need to focus on being “light and salt,” making a real difference in the world instead of seeking recognition through titles alone.

    Apostle Selman also highlighted the significance of emotional healing in leadership, noting that many leaders who inflict harm on others are often grappling with unresolved wounds themselves. He encouraged the congregation to seek healing, stating, “It’s not un-Christian to seek professional help in diagnosing emotional wounds.”

    His message resonated with the audience as he emphasized the collective responsibility of the church, government, and other institutions in nurturing the nation’s youth and promoting healing. “Nation-building is about building the people,” he said, advocating for more inclusive programs that instill hope and confidence in young people.

    He called on the government to play a vital role in nation-building and healing the wounds of the youth, emphasizing collaboration with reputable institutions like the church. “The government should get involved in programs aimed at restoring hope to the young, remembering the importance of preparing them for future leadership roles.”

     The Lead Pastor of The Elevation Church, Pastor Godman Akinlabi called for a balanced approach to engaging with today’s youth, particularly regarding their expression of individuality.

    “Young people are often misunderstood and judged based on their appearance, but what they seek is love, acceptance, and affirmation. It’s time for the church and society to provide that,” he said.