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By Bianca Iboma-Emefu
Apostle Nkechi Anayo-Iloputaife, General Overseer and President of Faith Revival Ministries World Outreach, stands as a towering figure in Nigeria’s Pentecostal landscape. Widely recognized as the first woman to lead a mega-church in the country, she assumed leadership following the death of her husband and founder of the ministry, late Bishop Harford Anayo Iloputaife, in 1995.
Over the past three decades, she has led the church with courage, resilience, and unwavering faith, sustaining a legacy that has spanned four decades of spiritual growth, evangelism, and community impact.
Apostle Iloputaife spoke with Daily Sun recently while reflecting on leadership, faith, and the evolving role of the church in a morally challenged society. She addresses criticisms directed at the church, clarifies misconceptions amplified by social media, and calls for a return to kingdom-centered values as a pathway to national transformation. She also speaks about nurturing the girl child, empowering youths for leadership, and investing in the next generation affirming that when a girl child is properly nurtured, she grows into a formidable force capable of transforming institutions, communities, and society at large.
The church has been accused of being responsible for the moral decadence in society. What is your perspective as a clergy?
The moral decadence in society is a serious and complex issue that warrants a comprehensive response. From my perspective, it is important to analyze this claim carefully and consider the broader context of the church’s role in societal transformation. Historically, followers of God have been called to be leaders of men, mandated to lead, disciple nations, and transform cultures by defining values rooted in divine principles.
The church has had the primary role to always uphold moral standards, teach righteousness, and influence societal norms positively. The moral decadence observed today can be traced back, in part, to a loss of focus among believers and church leaders on this divine mandate. Over time, there has been a drift away from our core mission of leading by example, teaching the principles of God’s kingdom, and actively transforming society according to divine standards.
Society now criticizes the church for wavering faith and moral decline. How can the church address this, especially to foster economic growth in Nigeria?
There is a strong belief within the body of Christ that revival is imminent. Many faith leaders hold onto the hope that a spiritual awakening will hit the church, leading to societal transformation. If the church can genuinely change lives and nations, then it follows that God’s voice to the nation is not primarily directed at politicians or governments but at His church. The church is the instrument through which God’s plan for societal change will be realized.
As a member of the church, I acknowledge that we share responsibility for the moral decline in society. However, I also believe that God has a divine plan for us. He has not abandoned us; instead, He is working with us to bring about transformation. The church is dear to God’s heart because His kingdom and His people are His greatest assets. He desires to work through His people those willing to change and embrace his value so that societal culture can be renewed.
Transforming society requires teaching people about the government of God’s principles, laws, and His kingdom. God’s plan to rebuild and restore is often channeled through the church. Whatever God needs to do to align us with His purpose, He will do it. When the word of God influences our belief systems, it naturally shapes our thoughts, attitudes, and actions. There is an urgent need for a shift from a faulty religious mindset to a kingdom-centric mindset—one that prioritizes God’s kingdom over religion. This shift is crucial because much of the church’s focus has been misaligned, which the devil has exploited to weaken our effectiveness. The power of the kingdom is real, and we are called to preach it with urgency.
What kind of teachings or programs does the church need to focus on to facilitate societal transformation?
What the church desperately needs today is a theology of kingdom transformation. We need teachings and programs—such as Sunday school classes—that focus not only on knowing God but also on transforming society. This approach will help us return to our divine mandate and align our mindsets with God’s purposes. Our pursuits should be driven by God’s agenda, not our own. In recent years, I have engaged in conversations about the unshakable nature of God’s kingdom on earth, believing that revival and revolution are possible when God’s power is released through His people. Unfortunately, the church is often misrepresented in social media and society for reasons that are not aligned with our true purpose. I trust that God will correct this misrepresentation. The church is fundamentally about people—reaching out, impacting lives, and demonstrating God’s love. Our efforts are limited only by the economy of heaven, which is unlimited and never experiences recession.
Can you give an example of how faith and kingdom principles have guided your church’s operations?
Certainly, for example, during a renovation project, my natural mindset was to seek assistance based on Nigeria’s economic situation. However, I chose to apply faith and kingdom principles, trusting in God’s provision. God responded, and we saw His miraculous provision. Similarly, we operated the Shalom Shop, where members brought items to support the less privileged, trusting in the economy of heaven. This demonstrates our reliance on God’s divine economy—knowing that He can supply all our needs according to His riches in glory.
Do you believe only God’s government can truly change the governments of nations?
Yes, I do. Only the government of heaven can truly change the governments of nations. Every earthly government is flawed, but faith in God’s sovereignty gives us hope. Christians are encouraged to keep praying and trusting that God will intervene. Nigeria, like many nations, faces significant hardships, but God’s people must persist in prayer and faith, believing that divine intervention is possible.
Regarding criticism of the church’s role in societal decay, what is your call to action for believers?
The church has faced criticism regarding societal decay, but it is also the appointed instrument for divine change. We must refocus on our divine mandate, embrace kingdom principles, and actively participate in transforming our society through faith, prayer, and righteous living. God is faithful, and His plans for us are still unfolding. We are called to stand firm, pray without ceasing, and believe that change is possible through God’s power working in and through His church.
You became a female leader in the church at a time when no other woman held such a position. Can you shed more light on this?
I became a female leader in the church at a time when no other woman held such a position. This experience proved that when a girl child is properly nurtured and given opportunities to grow, she can become a formidable force to reckon with in society. It highlights the importance of empowering girls from a young age, as they have the potential to make significant contributions and lead positively in their communities. Occupying such a position became both a personal milestone and a powerful statement to society. It demonstrated courage, faith, and resilience in the face of cultural and traditional barriers that often limit women’s opportunities. This achievement showed that leadership is not determined by gender, but by character, calling, competence, and commitment to service.
How does your journey serve as an inspiration to other women?
My journey as a female leader strongly proves that when a girl child is properly nurtured—through education, moral guidance, spiritual grounding, and encouragement—she can grow into a confident and capable leader. Proper nurturing helps a girl discover her gifts, build self-belief, and develop the strength to challenge stereotypes and break new ground. With the right support, she learns to speak up, take responsibility, and inspire others. My journey also serves as a source of inspiration, showing that societal limitations can be overcome. It reinforces the idea that investing in the growth of the girl child is an investment in the progress of the entire community. When empowered, a woman does not only succeed personally but also impacts lives, transforms institutions, and shapes a more inclusive and balanced society.
How can the church strategically position youths to take leadership roles amid societal moral decline?
I have always advocated for the strategic positioning of youths in church roles because society has increasingly compromised moral standards, leaving many young people without strong ethical direction. To achieve this, the church must take deliberate, consistent, and intentional steps that empower youths while guiding them with sound spiritual principles. First, the church must intentionally identify and nurture the gifts and talents of young people through mentorship programs where experienced leaders guide them spiritually, morally, and emotionally. When youths are mentored, they are better equipped to resist societal pressures and uphold godly values. Also, the church must create inclusive platforms that allow youths to participate actively in leadership and service.
Assigning them responsibilities such as leading worship, media outreach, evangelism, community service, and administrative roles helps them develop a sense of ownership and accountability. Continuous teaching and discipleship should be prioritized, with biblical teachings addressing contemporary challenges like peer pressure and social media influence. The church must also foster a supportive environment by setting clear standards, modeling godly behavior, and encouraging positive peer relationships. Prayer and spiritual accountability must remain central, with youths covered in prayer and guided with love, correction, and encouragement. By implementing these strategies, the church prepares youths to stand firm in a morally compromised society and become responsible leaders within the church and beyond.
Can you share some community-oriented services your church has benefitted from during your 40 years of impact?
As part of the 40th anniversary activities, the church launched several community-oriented projects aimed at giving back to society. For example, we held a free medical outreach on October 3, which provided essential healthcare services such as consultations, tests, and medications to residents of Abule-Osun and neighboring communities. Additionally, the church’s Shalom Shop initiative enabled residents to shop for free food items, clothing, and relief materials, targeting indigent families and vulnerable members of the community.
What would you say about the significance of the 40th anniversary?
The MegaFest and four-decade anniversary is a major milestone that offered an opportunity to thank God for His enduring faithfulness over the years. The celebration also served as a time to rededicate the church to its mission of service and spiritual impact. The weeklong program was marked by intense intercession for Nigeria, with prayers focused on national peace, prosperity, unity, and divine direction.
You have overseen the leadership of the church for 30 years after Bishop Hartford Iloputaife’s passing. What principles have kept you going?
It has been 30 years of God’s mercy and goodness. Despite the challenges of ministry and leadership, God has remained faithful. I often reflect on how God brought us through difficult seasons, and I am confident that those who doubted us have been disappointed because we survived the storms. All glory belongs to God, as none of this could have been achieved by human effort. The Word of God remains my final authority.
How do you view the relationship between leadership and faith?
Effective leadership remains a global challenge, whether in the church or in society. One of the major issues facing the church today is ineffective leadership. Whenever people come together, leadership is required to ensure structure, growth, and progress. Christians must understand that they are called into leadership roles to be change agents—not only within church walls but also in the marketplace and in everyday life.
How has managing the congregation over the years been for you?
Looking back, I can only give all the glory to God. Church leadership is one of the most challenging responsibilities, particularly in ministry. It becomes even more demanding for women because of societal gender biases. For women called by God, it is crucial to remain focused on that calling, stop apologizing, and unleash their God-given potential despite the odds. I choose to be what God has called me to be, and I do not apologize for it.
What is your view on the ban on ordaining women as clerics in some denominations?
This issue largely stems from ignorance and a lack of proper understanding of Scripture. Many people struggle to distinguish between Jewish tradition and biblical doctrine, especially regarding what applies to Jews versus Christians. The Bible clearly states that if anyone is in Christ, they are a new creation, and the spirit has no gender. Women play a vital role in humanity, and no church or nation can rise above the status of its womanhood. The belief system is gradually changing, and it will continue to evolve as more light from God’s Word is revealed.
What about the subject of succession in church leadership?
I have no issues with succession. Ministry is a covenant between the founder and God, and every covenant should include provisions for continuity into the next generation. The individual called and covenanted by God will understand who their successor is. I did not become the General Overseer simply because I was married to my husband; we shared the same vision and covenant.
When God truly calls someone, they will recognize and honor that covenant. If family members are unwilling or unavailable, God will raise others who are willing to embrace and advance the vision.
