The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) has declared a 40-day period of fasting and prayer, urging Nigerians to seek divine intervention for relief from the nation’s current hardships.
Led by its National President, Bishop Francis Wale Oke, the PFN hopes the campaign will bring prosperity, peace, and healing to a nation that is suffering from economic challenges, insecurity, and widespread poverty.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday, Bishop Oke, alongside PFN Deputy President Archbishop John Praise Daniel, revealed that the 40-day period of fasting and prayer would begin on January 6, 2025, and end with a national prayer gathering in Abuja on February 14, 2025.
“This period of prayer and fasting is crucial for the revival of our nation,” Bishop Oke said. “We want Nigerians to join us in crying out to God for mercy, healing, and the restoration of our great nation.”
The prayer campaign is set to precede PFN’s 18th Biennial Conference, which will take place in Abuja from February 10 to 14, 2025, under the theme: “The Rebirth of a Great Nation: Nigeria is Great.”
Bishop Oke, a key religious figure in Nigeria, emphasized that the nation’s challenges are not just the responsibility of the government but of every Nigerian. “It is our collective responsibility to pray, educate, and support efforts that will bring Nigeria out of hardship,” he said.
In drawing a parallel between Nigeria’s current struggles and a mother in labor, Bishop Oke stated, “Nigeria is in a painful process, like a mother about to deliver. But we believe that a new Nigeria will emerge.”
The declaration of the prayer and fasting period comes at a time when Nigerians are facing immense hardship, with inflation rates soaring, insecurity rampant, and economic struggles at an all-time high.
“It is time to seek God’s intervention,” Bishop Oke added. “Just like the people of Nineveh cried out for mercy when judgment was pronounced on them, we believe that God will hear our prayers and deliver Nigeria from its pain.”
Archbishop John Praise Daniel, in his remarks, reiterated the PFN’s optimism about the future of Nigeria despite the hardships the nation faces. “No matter the challenges, Nigeria is on the brink of achieving greatness,” he said. “Through prayer and fasting, God will heal our land.”
He expressed hope that Nigeria would soon emerge as a model of prosperity and peace. “We see a future where Nigeria becomes an example for other nations,” he said. “Kidnapping, banditry, and bloodshed will be a thing of the past.”
According to Archbishop Daniel, the upcoming conference will feature prominent Nigerian leaders who will address the nation’s problems and offer solutions. “The conference will provide guidance on how we can collectively build a better Nigeria,” he said.
The PFN’s call for prayer and fasting comes after years of increasing frustration among Nigerians about the country’s persistent problems. Many citizens have raised concerns over the government’s inability to address issues such as high unemployment, widespread insecurity, and inflation.
In a recent statement, the Archbishop explained, “Nigeria is like a sick nation that needs to be saved. The Bible tells us that the prayer of faith can heal the sick, and just like that, we believe that Nigeria will be healed and restored.”
The 40 days of fasting and prayer will serve as a unifying moment for Christians and all Nigerians who want to contribute to the nation’s healing. With the national prayer gathering set for February 14, the PFN hopes that the collective prayers of the country will bring about a spiritual revival and a new era of peace and prosperity for Nigeria.
In addition to the spiritual aspect of the campaign, Archbishop Daniel stressed the importance of unity and collective action. “Nigeria’s progress depends on every one of us working together,” he said. “It’s not just about praying; it’s about taking responsibility for the future of our country.”
