The General-Overseer and President of the United Apostolic Church of Christ Worldwide, UACC, Rev. (Dr.) James Bayo Owoyemi, has called on Nigerian leaders to move away from nepotism and focus on initiatives that genuinely enhance the quality of life for citizens.
He made the remark while speaking with newsmen during a Special Thanksgiving Service that celebrated the 60th anniversary of the church’s Pastors Conference at the Mount Zion International Prayer Centre, Ologuneru, Ibadan.
Addressing the pressing economic challenges facing Nigeria, Rev. Owoyemi emphasised the importance of faith and hope, saying, “The Bible assures us that with God, all things are possible. It is vital that we trust in God and align our actions with His will,” he stated.
He encouraged leaders to recognise their positions as a divine grace, urging them to act in ways that will hold them accountable before God.
“So I am encouraging the leadership of Nigeria to trust God, and make sure they put everything in the hands of God and at the same time satisfy God.”
“They are in power by the grace of God and it is important for them to appreciate this and do the will of God because they will not be there forever.”
“They should do things that will add value to the lives of the citizens of Nigeria. Shun nepotism and do things in such a way that when they appear before God they will have the boldness to give account of what they have done.”
Rev. Owoyemi conveyed a message of hope, reinforcing that despite current difficulties, faith in God can lead to positive outcomes.
“This is a message of hope. We should have hope that at the end of the day things will result to the glory of God. We will praise God in Nigeria.”
“The current situation of Nigeria will lead to praise. We should have hope and we should trust God and we should continue to serve him.”
“We should not allow the present situation to move us away from God. We should have hope that Nigeria will be good. The purpose of God shall come to pass for this country in the name of Jesus.”
Earlier in his sermon titled, “The Secret of Living is Praise,” Rev. Owoyemi encouraged Christians to cultivate a spirit of praise, asserting that neglecting this practice leads to spiritual stagnation.
Drawing from Psalm 150:6 and Isaiah 38:19, he warned that those who cease to praise God have effectively chosen a path toward despair.
“The essence of life is to praise God. How often do we offer Him our gratitude?” he asked, illustrating his point with the biblical story of Paul and Silas, who praised God even while imprisoned.”
“Their praise brought about miraculous freedom, demonstrating that praise is the key to victory in times of trial.”
This year’s conference featured a variety of enriching seminars, fervent prayers, and revival sessions, all aimed at strengthening pastoral leadership.
A special highlight was the posthumous tribute honouring the legacy of the church’s founding president, the late Archbishop Solomon A. Adetisola, celebrated on Saturday.
