The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) has recently concluded a four-day retreat in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. The gathering, which brought together more than 90 per cent of its national officers, was the first major assembly under the second term of its president, Bishop Francis Wale Oke, and reflected a determination to deepen the Fellowship’s role in shaping both the spiritual and civic atmosphere of the country.
Held with the theme of national transformation, the retreat provided a rare moment of introspection and strategic recalibration for PFN. Daily sessions were structured to include early morning devotions, revival gatherings, leadership teachings, and collective reflections on Nigeria’s evolving socio-political terrain. At the core of the retreat was the need to sharpen the PFN’s internal structures while intensifying efforts to be a moral compass and partner in the nation’s development.
“The retreat was designed to unite our leadership, consolidate our vision, and reposition PFN to make more impactful contributions—spiritually and in nation-building,” said PFN’s National Secretary, Bishop David Bakare, during a post-retreat media briefing. He described the event as a significant milestone for the organisation, stressing its commitment to constructive engagement with national leaders.
One of the central messages that emerged during the retreat was the Fellowship’s insistence that Nigeria’s future depends not only on prayers but on decisive and sustained action by its leaders. During a keynote address, PFN called on the administration of President Bola Tinubu to move beyond declarations and begin to implement policies that address urgent challenges such as youth unemployment and porous borders.
“These are not times for rhetoric. Nigerians need to see results,” Bishop Bakare emphasized.
Throughout the sessions, PFN leaders recommitted themselves to the organisation’s dual mission of intercession and advocacy, asserting that effective governance must be strategic and people-focused. “When the government is serious and the people are engaged meaningfully, insecurity will decrease. That’s a vision we are committed to supporting through prayer and partnership,” Bakare added.
The presence of Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno lent added weight to the gathering. Addressing participants, the governor lauded the PFN for sustaining a credible and spiritually grounded voice in national affairs. He commended Bishop Wale Oke’s leadership style, particularly his efforts in creating space for young leaders and strengthening unity within the Christian fold.
Governor Eno’s involvement underscored the significance of the retreat, as did the attendance of PFN’s financial secretary, Dr. Bala Ukpai, one of the founding figures of the Fellowship. His participation was a highlight of the event, offering a bridge between the organisation’s early days and its future aspirations. Bishop Bakare, reflecting on Ukpai’s presence, said, “The encouragement and spiritual impartation from Baba Ukpai reminded us of our roots and re-energized us for the work ahead.”
