The General Overseer of Chapel of Freedom International, Bishop John Ibenu, has emphasized the need for visionary, God-fearing and sacrificial leadership to restore Nigeria’s lost glory and address the nation’s mounting challenges.
Bishop Ibenu made the call during a news briefing in Lokoja as part of activities marking the 34th anniversary of Chapel of Freedom International.
Established on July 5, 1992, in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital, the church has grown over the past 34 years with branches across Kogi State and other parts of the country.
Speaking on the church’s impact on society, Bishop Ibenu highlighted its various humanitarian interventions, including free medical outreaches, scholarships, provision of boreholes, distribution of food items, and other support programmes targeted at the less privileged.
He disclosed that the anniversary conference, themed “Born to Reign: The Supernatural Life,” will feature teachings on reigning through wisdom, knowledge, prayer, and family life.
According to him, the conference is designed to build the faith of participants, inspire positive action, and empower them to succeed in life.
The week-long programme will hold at the Chapel of Freedom International, Adankolo New Layout, Lokoja, from June 29 to July 5, and will feature renowned ministers of God from within and outside Nigeria.
Commenting on the state of the nation, Bishop Ibenu stressed that Nigeria’s challenges could be overcome through visionary and God-fearing leadership.
“If there is visionary, God-fearing and sacrificial leadership, everybody will fall in line,” he said, urging leaders at all levels to embrace selfless leadership to restore the country’s glory.
The cleric also appealed to governments at all levels to intensify efforts to tackle insecurity, noting that providing the younger generation with hope, opportunities and a meaningful future would discourage involvement in banditry, kidnapping and other social vices.
He maintained that when people have something positive to look forward to, they are less likely to engage in criminal activities, urging leaders to prioritise policies that promote security, economic opportunities and national development.