The Lead Pastor of the Transforming Church, Rev. Sam Oye, has called for a spiritual rebirth in Nigeria, saying the fear of God, integrity and accountability are necessary to fight corruption and promote national development.
Oye made the call in Abuja during a news conference ahead of the church’s 10th anniversary and Encounter Conference 2026, scheduled for Friday, November 6.
He said Nigeria’s challenges could not be solved through religious activities alone, adding that real change must begin with the attitudes and actions of both leaders and citizens.
The cleric noted that despite the large number of people who profess faith in Nigeria, corruption remains a major problem, stressing the need for Nigerians to practise the values of honesty and righteousness.
On the 2027 general elections, Oye urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure credible polls and protect the people’s right to vote.
He also called on INEC to remain independent and urged security agencies to provide adequate protection before and during the elections to prevent violence and malpractice.
Speaking on Encounter 2026, Oye said the programme, with the theme El-Ezer: God, My Helper, was designed to promote national unity, restore hope and seek God’s intervention in the country’s challenges.
He said the previous edition attracted about 6,000 people, noting that the annual gathering brings Nigerians from different religious, political and cultural backgrounds together to pray for the nation.
Oye added that the programme would also offer people facing economic and personal challenges an opportunity to seek God’s help in their careers, businesses, marriages and families.
Earlier, the Executive Pastor of the church’s Central Area branch in Abuja, Emmanuel Isaiah, said the conference was established 10 years ago to bring people together in worship and prayers for the country.
He said the vision remained the same, with the church using the platform to promote unity and seek God’s mercy for Nigeria.
The organisers announced free transportation from more than 15 locations across Abuja and neighbouring communities, including Gwarinpa, Kubwa, Mararaba, Nyanya, Bwari and Kuje.
They also said medical personnel, a medical centre and an ambulance would be available throughout the programme, while 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.
Worship ministers expected at the gathering include Emma Revelation, Bidemi Olaoba and Emmanuel Praise, among others.
