I walked barefoot through school – Adeboye

By Philomina Attah

Pastor Enoch Adeboye has recounted his journey from a humble beginning — walking barefoot through secondary school and coming from a village once absent from Nigeria’s map.

Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), also shared experiences from his early ministry, when resources were scarce and faith was his only currency.

Delivering a sermon at the 50th anniversary celebration of the All Christians Fellowship Mission (ACFM) in Abuja on Friday, Adeboye highlighted God’s faithfulness and ability to provide help in times of need.

The pastor described God as the ultimate promoter. He encouraged Nigerians not to judge their worth by present hardship, assuring them that God sees all and can elevate anyone to greatness.

He urged the congregation to put their trust in God, especially in difficult times.

“Your promotion is not in the hand of man. Your promotion is in the hand of God,” he said.

Adeboye praised ACFM’s founder, Rev. Williams Okoye, describing him as a steadfast man of God who has remained unwavering in his faith despite life’s challenges and successes.

According to Adeboye, Rev. Okoye’s commitment to God has served as a great source of inspiration for others to emulate.

In his remarks, Rev. Williams Okoye — host and General Overseer of ACFM — reflected on the church’s 50-year journey and expressed deep gratitude for God’s faithfulness.

The former Aso Rock Chaplain noted that ACFM had faced many trials and uncertain seasons but had been sustained by God’s consistency and character.

“From that modest beginning in a batcher — a makeshift structure — ACFM has grown into a global mission with churches across Nigeria,” he said.

Okoye added that the church now has branches in countries like Rwanda and Uganda in East Africa, and Burkina Faso in West Africa.

He described the anniversary theme, “God Our Helper”, taken from 1 Samuel 7:12, as timely and appropriate. He reiterated the mission of the church as bringing people to Christ, nurturing them to spiritual maturity, and equipping them for ministry both in the church and in the world.

“Only the grace of God and His faithfulness have brought us this far,” he added.

Rev. Okoye emphasized that acknowledging and thanking God — even for the smallest mercies — was essential for spiritual growth and national transformation.

He noted that over the last 50 years, the church had contributed to Nigeria’s transformation by pastoring two presidents without scandal or corruption.

“The church has also developed materials and organized powerful meetings to promote national transformation, which have had a lasting impact on the country,” he said.

Looking ahead, he expressed optimism about the church’s future, trusting that God would continue to guide and bless ACFM in its next chapter.

Also speaking at the event, former Senate President, Sen. Anyim Pius Anyim, expressed gratitude to God for His guidance and protection throughout his public service career.

Anyim credited ACFM for playing a significant role in his spiritual development during his early years in Abuja. He congratulated the church on its 50th anniversary and thanked God for His enduring mercy.

He emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong connection with God, particularly in public service, and expressed confidence in the church’s lasting legacy.

Mr. Ifeanyi Odedo, a former elder of the church, also shared his appreciation for the impact ACFM had made on his life and ministry. In an interview with newsmen, Odedo spoke about his 20-year journey with the church, crediting it for shaping his Christian character, integrity, and purpose.

He said the church’s teachings and mentorship laid the foundation for his role as National President of the Full Gospel Businessmen’s Fellowship International Nigeria.

Odedo praised ACFM’s influence on Nigerian society, especially in promoting spiritual, physical, and economic stability. He also commended Rev. Okoye’s leadership in mentoring future leaders and shaping Nigeria’s spiritual direction.

The Chairman of the Planning Committee for the 50th Anniversary, Pastor Titus Omolewa, attributed the success of the celebrations to God’s guidance and support.

“It has not been very easy, but God has always been there to help us,” he said, acknowledging the challenges of organizing the golden jubilee celebration.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the church has dedicated three days of praise and worship to God as part of the anniversary celebration.

(NAN)