Adeboye: I walked barefoot through secondary school

Pastor Enoch Adeboye has recounted his journey from humble beginning, walking barefoot through secondary school and hailing from a village once absent on Nigeria’s map.
Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), also recounted moments from his early ministry when resources were sparse and faith was his only currency.
Delivering 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 assistance in times of need.
The Pastor, revered for his humility and faith, described God as the ultimate promoter.
He encouraged Nigerians not to judge their worth by the present hardship, assuring them that God sees and is able to lift anyone to greatness.
The Clergy also encouraged Nigerians to trust in God’s help during times of trouble.
“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 solid man of God who has remained steadfast in his faith despite challenges and successes.
According to him, Okoye’s commitment to God has been a source of inspiration for all to emulate.
Okoye, the host and General Overseer, ACFM, while reflecting on the church’s journey, expressed gratitude for God’s faithfulness over the past 50 years.
The former Aso Rock chaplain said that over the past 50 years, the Church had faced trials and seasons of uncertainty, adding that God’s consistency and character have been the church’s guiding light.
“From that modest beginning in a “batcher”, a make-shift structure, ACFM has grown into a global mission with Churches across Nigeria.
“It also has branches in countries like Rwanda, Uganda in East Africa and Burkiso Faso in West Africa.
“The theme of the anniversary, “God our Helper” culled from 1 Samuel 7:12, is not only appropriate but also timing.
“The mission is to bring people to Jesus Christ and develop them to Christ-like maturity and equip them for God’s ministry in the Church and the world,” he said.
Okoye said that, acknowledging and thanking God for His mercies, no matter how small, was essential for spiritual growth and national transformation.
“Only the grace of God and His faithfulness have brought us thus far,” he said.
He said that the church had contributed to national transformation in the past 50 years by pastoring two Nigerian presidents without any corruption or scandal.
“The church has also developed materials and held powerful meetings to promote national transformation, which have had a lasting impact on the country,” he said.
He expressed optimism about the church’s future, believing that God will continue to guide and bless ACFM as it prepares for the next chapter in its history.
A former Senate President Sen. Anyim Pius Anyim, expressed gratitude to God for His guidance and protection throughout his public service career.
Anyim credited the church for playing a significant role in his early life as a Christian in Abuja.
He congratulated the Church on its 50th anniversary and thanked God for His mercy.
Anyim emphasised the importance of maintaining a strong connection with God, particularly in public service.
The former Senate President expressed confidence in the church’s legacy and encouraged others to join in celebrating its achievements.
Mr Ifeanyi Odedo, a former elder of the Church, also expressed gratitude for the impact the church had in his life and ministry.
In an interview with newsmen, Odedo shared his 20-year journey with ACFM, highlighting the church’s role in shaping his christian character, integrity and purposefulness.
He credited ACFM with forming his christian foundation, which he has carried into his various roles and ministries.
He said that the church’s teachings and mentorship prepared him for his position as the National President of the Full Gospel Businessmen’s Fellowship International Nigeria.
Odedo praised ACFM’s influence in the Nigerian society, citing the church’s contributions to spiritual, physical and economic stability.
He also acknowledged the role of ACFM’s General Overseer in mentoring leaders and shaping the nation’s spiritual landscape.
The Chairman Planning Committee for the Church’s 50th anniversary, Pastor Titus Omolewa, attributed the success of the planning process to God’s guidance and support.
He acknowledged that organising the golden jubilee celebration had not been easy, and praised God for providing the strength, grace and teamwork needed to overcome obstacles.
“It has not been very easy, but God has always been there to help us,” he said.
The Church has dedicated three days of praises to God for the journey so far, as part of activities to mark its 50th anniversary.