By Segun Adewale, Bauchi
Bauchi State chapter of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) has celebrated the 40th anniversary of the fellowship in Nigeria, commending the commitment of Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed’s administration for inclusivity in governance .
Chairman of the Bauchi state PFN, Pastor Promise Nuhu Yohanna who was speaking at the 40th anniversary of the PFN in Nigeria and 39th in Bauchi State held on Sunday in Bauchi applauded Governor Bala Mohammed for inclusivity in governance saying that the state is a model of unity and peaceful coexistence.
According to him, while the National PFN was celebrating 40 years of formation, Bauchi State chapter was celebrating 39 years of existence and service to God and humanity.
Pastor Promise Yohanna stated that, “It is with great joy and gratitude to God that I welcome you our esteem guests to the 40th Anniversary Celebration of PFN Nationally and 39th Anniversary of PFN in the State. I am glad that you are part of this historical event.”
He said that, “The PFN of yesterday was that small group of young vibrant people who despite all odds stood the Ground to birth a new Movement which today has been great. I am extremely grateful to our founding fathers of faith, nationally and state for the vision, courage and sacrifice they have made to lay a sol foundation of which we are celebrating today.”
The PFN Chairman added that,”They served in different capacity for the past 39 years in the State PFN, other individuals are now serving. The purpose of this gathering is to celebrate distinguished Individuals who have also distinguished themselves through service to different PFN Churches in the state will also be recognized and awarded.”
“I want on behalf of the PFN Executive Council, to appreciate the Executive Governor of Bauchi State, His Excellency, Senator Bala Abdulkakir Mohammed for his inclusiveness in governance. I celebrate him for developmental projects that has put the state on the global stage of a developing state. I want to equally appreciate him for supporting us in hosting four major programmes in the Stadium,”he added.
The Chairman added that, “However, I want to draw the attention of the Governor to also support PFN Churches as he has supported other denominations. PFN, Bauchi State Chapter is also requesting the Governor to assist in Building its Secretariat. I want to also use this medium to appreciate the SSA to the Governor on Christian Affairs, Pastor Zakka Luka Magaji for the love and sacrifice towards PFN as the body of Christ.”
In his remarks, the state Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, reiterated the commitment of his administration to inclusive governance in order to promote religious harmony, peaceful coexistence and unity of purpose in the State.
The Governor who was represented by his SSA on Religious Affairs (Christian), Pastor Zakka Magaji, commended the Christian Community for supporting his administration since assuming office in 2019 reiterating that the Community played a significant role in his election and re-election.
He called for more support and cooperation from all citizens of the State saying that it is only in a peaceful atmosphere that development can take place and thrive.
In his address, National President of the PFN, Bishop Francis Wale Oke, reiterated that it will continue to be the voice and lead organisation of Christians in Nigeria in the struggle to liberate the people and ensure justice and fairness in governance and freedom of religion.
The National President who was represented at the ceremony stated that, “Today – By God’s mercy, the PFN has grown to become a national voice for the Church and for the gospel. We have stood as a beacon of truth, a defender of righteousness, and a symbol of unity among believers.”
According to him, “From the grassroots to the national level, the PFN continues to impact lives, influence governance, and advance the cause of the Kingdom. Indeed, the Lord has done great things for us, and today we gather to return all glory to Him.”
He stated further, “It gives me great joy, with gratitude to the Almighty God, to welcome you all to this Special Thanksgiving Service marking the 40th Anniversary of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria. This event is particularly historic, as we return to Lagos State the cradle of the PFN-where it all began, to give thanks to God for His faithfulness these past four decades.”
According to him,”Yesterday – Forty years ago, the Lord stirred the hearts of our fathers of faith to establish a united fellowship for Pentecostal believers in Nigeria. With courage, vision, and sacrifice, they laid the foundation for what we celebrate today. We salute our Founding Fathers, and we eulogize our past National Presidents whose uncommon leadership and resilience shaped this Fellowship. Their legacies of prayer, unity, and bold witness remain a guiding light to us all.”
“Tomorrow, As we rejoice, we must also embrace the call to prepare for the future. It is with this in mind that I present to you the vision of The PFN Legacy Place in Abuja-an edifice that will serve as the spiritual, administrative, and leadership nerve centre of our Fellowship,” he added.
The PFN National President explained that, “This Legacy Place will stand as a monument of faith and unity, ensuring that future generations of Pentecostals will inherit both a spiritual and physical legacy. Brethren, the PFN tomorrow is here, and the tomorrow is now.”
He added that, “Furthermore, as part of our forward vision, the PFN will continue to recognize and honour Members and Nigerians who have distinguished themselves in various fields of life and service. Beginning with this Thanksgiving Celebration and Veterans Award, this shall become a periodic tradition of the Fellowship-to inspire excellence, integrity, and impact across our nation.”
He concluded that,”PFN Yesterday has given us a foundation, PFN Today gives us responsibility, and PFN Tomorrow calls us to greater exploits. Together, with faith in God and unity of purpose, we shall march on from glory to glory.”
The celebration has as its Theme: “PFN: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow” during which past leaders in Bauchi State since formation were duly recognised and presented with awards of service.
