By Stanley Onyekwere
A renowned christian leader and preacher, Gbile Akanni and Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Barr. Boss Mustapha make up the resource faculty for this year’s National Convention of the Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship International Nigeria (FGBMFI–Nigeria) slated for next week, in Abuja.
Others include: Arc. Ifeanyi Odedo,an Architect and the National President of the Fellowship, DIG Marvel Akpoyibo (Rtd), General Yakubu Usman – an ECOMOG veteran and Engr Chris Kammelu, Executive Director at the Federal Emergency Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA); while women speakers include; Barr (Mrs) Ebere Agu, Pharm (Mrs) Caroline Oluwese, and Dame (Dr) Joan Orji.
Speaking at a pre-convention media briefing yesterday, National President, Ifeanyi Odedo, said the Convention is anchored on the theme, “Thou Art My Battle Axe”, which was taken from Jeremiah 51:20.
Odedo added that the focus at the Convention is to uphold the nation in prayers at a time, people are grappling with insecurity and economic downturn, as well as also harness the patriotic support of her nationals to partner with the government towards successful elections.
He noted that the Convention will work to advance the cause of national growth through promotion of investments and the national image.
According to him, “the programme for this year’s National Convention has been scheduled for November 10 – 12, 2022 (Thursday – Saturday), in Abuja, at Chida Events Centre, would include rallies, teachings, business roundtables and professional seminars.
“As usual, the event would showcase a star-studded team of testifiers who would be sharing personal experiences and stories. This, indeed, is the fort of the Fellowship, as our members are neither ordained, nor full-time Gospel practitioners, but regular men and women doing regular jobs in the marketplace.
“At a period of serious economic stress, it is important that we share experiences and build capacity to empower members on how they could leverage available resources and various government safety nets for their economic well-being.
“This year’s event is unique because we shall be receiving in our midst, many of our members from various nations who would be attending the convention”.
Furthermore, the Fellowship used the occasion to commend the Federal Government for its efforts at fighting insecurity and working to bring socio-economic stability in the land.
“We however, appeal that no stone should be left unturned to ensure that we bring a permanent solution to the problems of insecurity confronting this nation and the economic hardship that Nigerians are facing today.
‘We also convey our deepest sympathies to victims of kidnappings and insurgencies across the nation. Similarly, we express our condolences to people affected by the ravaging flood in the nation.
“We urge the government at all levels to do everything necessary to mitigate the hardship that victims are facing and to check future occurrences”, he stressed.
