Follow Us on Google
Lead Pastor of The Transforming Church, Rev. Sam Oye, has called for a spiritual rebirth in Nigeria, declaring that the fear of God, integrity and accountability are essential to defeating corruption and achieving national development.
Oye made the call in Abuja during a news conference ahead of the 10th anniversary celebration of Encounter 2026, an all-night prayer gathering for the nation scheduled for Friday, November 6.
He said Nigeria’s problems could not be solved through religious activities alone, stressing that genuine transformation must begin with a change of attitude among citizens and leaders.
According to him, the contradiction between Nigerians’ public profession of faith and the widespread corruption in the country shows that the values of righteousness and integrity have yet to reflect in national life.
The cleric also challenged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure credible elections in 2027, insisting that Nigerians must be confident that their votes would count.
He urged the electoral body to protect its independence and resist corrupt influences, while calling on security agencies to provide adequate security before and during the elections to prevent violence and electoral malpractice.
Speaking on Encounter 2026, Oye said the programme, themed El-Ezer: God, My Helper, was designed to promote national unity, restore hope and seek divine intervention in Nigeria’s challenges.
He recalled that the previous edition attracted between 5,000 and 6,000 participants, adding that the annual gathering brings Nigerians from different religious, political and cultural backgrounds together in prayers for the country.
Oye said the programme would also provide an opportunity for people facing economic hardship and other personal challenges to seek God’s intervention in their careers, businesses, marriages and families.
The event will feature worship ministers, including Emma Revelation, Bidemi Olaoba and Emmanuel Praise, among others, with performances reflecting Nigeria’s cultural and linguistic diversity.
Earlier, the Executive Pastor of the church in Abuja’s Central Area, Emmanuel Isaiah said the conference was established 10 years ago to bring Christians and non-Christians together in worship and prayers for God’s mercy and intervention in Nigeria.
He said the vision had remained unchanged, with Oye providing leadership in using the platform to promote national unity and collective prayers.
The organisers announced free transportation from more than 15 designated locations across Abuja and neighbouring communities, including Gwarinpa, Kubwa, Mararaba, Nyanya, Bwari and Kuje.
They also assured participants of adequate medical and security arrangements, disclosing that medical personnel, a medical centre and an ambulance would be available throughout the programme.
The organisers added that security agencies had been contacted to ensure the safety of participants.
The event is free and open to the public, with activities expected to continue overnight into Saturday morning.
