Hundreds of worshippers converged on Agege, Lagos, over the weekend for the 38th Annual Convention of the Abundant Life Gospel Church Men's Fellowship. The three-day gathering brought together Christian leaders who pushed for intensified prayers directed at the nation's leadership and a commitment to driving national progress.
Held at the church's headquarters on Iju Road, the event ran under the theme "Unbeatable" and packed in seminars, prayer sessions, a men's forum and complimentary health screenings. The activities aimed to equip participants with tools to handle the economic and social pressures bearing down on Nigerians.
Deacon Bola Showumi, the national president of the fellowship, told delegates that Christians must heed the Bible's call to intercede for those in positions of authority. He stressed that leaders cannot navigate crises alone and need the backing of their citizens.
"The Bible instructs us to pray for those in authority. Our leaders do not possess all knowledge, and no leader can succeed without the support of the people they serve," Showumi said.
He urged Nigerians to stay optimistic about the country's future, arguing that faith, unity and coordinated action could overcome current difficulties. Showumi also called on Christian men to uphold moral standards and distance themselves from criminality, noting that national transformation depends on ethical living.
"Only righteousness can exalt a nation, while sin brings reproach," he noted.
Rev. Tunde Owolabi, the State Pastor of Abundant Life Gospel Churches in Oyo State, led a seminar titled "Navigating These Uncertain Times" where he reminded participants that every believer carries the inner strength to triumph over hardship.
He pointed out that difficult seasons often hide fresh possibilities for those willing to persevere.
"There is something God has deposited in every believer to overcome challenges. In every difficult moment, there are opportunities, and with determination and God's help, we will emerge stronger," Owolabi told the audience.
The cleric appealed to government at all tiers to prioritise security infrastructure and foster conditions where businesses and people can flourish. Better security, he argued, would rebuild public trust and fuel development nationwide.
Owolabi also made a case for peaceful conduct during elections, pushing politicians and their backers to reject violence as a political tool. He described elections as a democratic exercise, not a battleground justifying bloodshed or destruction.
"Election is not a do-or-die affair. There is no justification for violence or the destruction of lives and property," he said.
He devoted prayer time to kidnapping victims, insecurity sufferers, soldiers and police officers working to restore normalcy across Nigeria.
Deacon Ibukun Adewole, who sat on the convention planning committee, explained that organisers designed the programme to fortify men spiritually, physically and emotionally during economically trying times. Spiritual sessions, free medical examinations and open dialogue helped participants build psychological resilience and embrace wellness practices.
The convention drew men from Abundant Life Gospel Church branches across the country and wrapped up with prayers for Nigeria, thanksgiving rituals and health outreach drives.
