Cleric Urges Nigerians to Praise God amidst Troubles

Mary Nnah

General Overseer of the Foursquare Gospel Church Nigeria,  Rev. Sam Aboyeji, has urged Nigerians to praise God amidst troubles, citing Psalm 34:1.

“Give thanks that you are even alive at all. Give thanks that we still have a nation,” Rev. Aboyeji said, emphasising the importance of faith in “The situation in Nigeria may seem irredeemable, but with God, all things are possible. We must invite Him into our lives and believe in His wonders,” he said.

 Rev. Aboyeji made this call yesterday during the Foursquare Gospel Church Nigeria’s 69th annual national convention, themed “God of Wonders” (Job 9:10, Joshua 3:5), held from November 11-17, 2024, at the Foursquare Camp, Ajebo, Lagos-Ibadan expressway, Ogun state.

 Rev. Aboyeji further stressed the need for Nigerians to apply the right instruments and the right key to overcome difficulties.

“We must use the instrument of praise, the instrument of prayer, and the instrument of faith to overcome our challenges.” He encouraged Nigerians to remain hopeful and steadfast in their faith, saying, “God is not finished with Nigeria yet. He will restore our nation to its former glory.”

Special Adviser to the Governor of Lagos State, Very Revd. Bukola Adeleke, who  represented Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, praised the church’s profound impact on society.

“Foursquare Gospel Church is more than a church; it’s a lifeline, a sanctuary, and a beacon of God’s enduring grace.” He commended Rev. Aboyeji, stating: “Governor Sanwo-Olu is pleased with your ministry, and we recognise the vital role the church plays in shaping a just and compassionate society.”

Revd. Adeleke emphasised the importance of collaboration between the government and religious organisations.

.  Aboyeji said: “We must work together to build a better Nigeria. The church has a critical role to play in promoting peace, education, and empowerment.” He assured the church of the government’s support, saying, “We will continue to partner with you to make Lagos State and Nigeria a better place for all.”

 Wife of the General Overseer, Reverend (Mrs.) Olabisi Aboyeji, emphasised parental involvement in shaping children’s values and morals.

“Train your child in the way it should go. And when he’s grown up, he will not depart from it”, said, while encouragig parents to prioritise their role in instilling values and morals in their children, stressing that parents cannot give what they don’t have.

“We must return to the basics of parenting, teaching our children the ways of God and guiding them on the path of righteousness,” she added.

Chairman of the 2024 National Convention Planning Committee, Rev. Roland Okereke, reflected on the convention’s theme, “There have been a lot of testimonies of God of wonders visiting people.”

He highlighted the committee’s projects, including infrastructure development and community service initiatives.

“We constructed six-room toilets near the marketplace, drained boreholes, and installed solar energy lights to improve the camp’s facilities.”

Professor Iyabode Oguniran, a 30-year member, shared her experience: “Every year, the man of God declares what God is saying… God  of wonders. We have experienced Him doing amazing things in our midst.” She expressed gratitude for the convention’s impact on her life. “This year’s convention has been a blessing, reminding me of God’s faithfulness and love.”

The convention concluded with a call to action: 40 days of prayer and fasting, starting December 24th, to usher in the church’s 70th anniversary. As Nigerians face uncertain times, the Foursquare Gospel Church Nigeria stands as a beacon of hope, inspiring faith and resilience.