AKINWALE ABOLUWADE
The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) has concluded its 2025 special retreat in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, with a renewed commitment to national transformation through prayer, unity, and strategic engagement with governance.
Held over four days, the retreat marked the first under the second term of PFN President, Bishop Francis Wale Oke, and brought together over 90% of the fellowship’s national leadership. It served as a platform to align internal structures, strengthen leadership bonds, and sharpen the PFN’s spiritual and socio-political vision for the country.
Speaking to journalists after the retreat, PFN National Secretary, Bishop David Bakare, described the gathering as a significant milestone in the fellowship’s mission to provide moral and spiritual guidance while constructively engaging with national leadership.
“The retreat was designed to unite our leadership, consolidate our vision, and position PFN to make more impactful contributions—both spiritually and in nation-building,” he said.
The retreat featured daily devotions, revival sessions, strategic teachings, and visioning engagements, which reinforced collaboration among the national officers and deepened their collective resolve to intercede for Nigeria and promote responsible governance.
In a keynote session, the PFN reiterated its position that while prayers are vital, they must be matched by purposeful action from those in leadership. The fellowship called on the Tinubu administration to demonstrate tangible commitment to its policies beyond verbal assurances, especially in areas like border security and youth employment.
“These are not times for rhetoric. Nigerians need to see results—initiatives that are not only announced but implemented to improve lives and restore trust,” Bishop Bakare stated.
He emphasized that the PFN would continue to pray for the nation and its leaders but stressed that governance must be intentional, strategic, and people-focused. “When the government is serious and people are engaged meaningfully, insecurity will reduce. That’s a vision we are committed to support through both prayers and partnership,” he added.
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, who attended the retreat, lauded the PFN for its spiritual leadership and truth-telling approach to engaging public officials. He commended Bishop Wale Oke for fostering unity in the Christian community and solicited continued prayer for his administration.
Another highlight of the retreat was the participation of PFN patriarch, Baba Uma Ukpai, who played a foundational role in the organization’s formation. His presence, according to Bakare, was both symbolic and strengthening, inspiring the choice of Uyo as the host city.
“The encouragement and spiritual impartation from Baba Ukpai reminded us of our roots and re-energized us for the work ahead,” Bakare said.
The retreat also served as a time of intercession for Nigeria, Akwa Ibom State, and the body of Christ, with leaders praying for wisdom, unity, and national renewal.
With a strengthened leadership core and renewed spiritual fervor, the PFN leaves Uyo focused on its dual mission: to continue serving as a prophetic voice in the nation and to support policies that deliver real change for Nigerians.
