Pastor Femi Emmanuel at 70: A Call for Christian Political Participation and Community Impact

Pastor Femi Emmanuel, Presiding Pastor of Livingspring Church and a prominent leader in the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), has called on Christians in Nigeria to engage actively in politics. Speaking during a service to mark his 70th birthday at the church’s headquarters in Ibadan, Oyo State, the former Deputy Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly emphasized that prayers and fasting alone are not enough to bring transformation to the nation.

“The Church has the numerical strength, intellectual capacity, and financial resources needed to influence governance,” Pastor Emmanuel stated, urging Christian leaders to move beyond spiritual exercises and begin to occupy positions of authority. He warned that the Church has erred by labeling politics as “dirty” and leaving it solely to career politicians, which he believes has contributed significantly to Nigeria’s current state. He also stressed the need for political awareness and involvement at the grassroots level, especially in the selection of delegates and candidates.

The celebration was attended by notable political and religious figures who paid glowing tributes to Pastor Emmanuel’s impactful legacy in ministry, leadership, and national development. Distinguished guests included former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (represented by Bishop Olubunmi Banwo, National Chairman of the Bible Society of Nigeria), Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, Bishop David Oyedepo, PFN President Bishop Francis Wale Oke, Emeritus Primate Sunday Ola Makinde, former CAN President Dr. Supo Ayokunle, and former Minister of Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung.

In his goodwill message, Governor Makinde praised Pastor Emmanuel as “a rare leader whose spiritual insight and commitment to national transformation have inspired many.” He acknowledged Emmanuel’s consistent advocacy for good governance and moral uprightness, describing him as “a voice of reason and wisdom in turbulent times.”

Similarly, Solomon Dalung celebrated Pastor Emmanuel as “a remarkable Nigerian who was once involved in politics but was divinely redirected into full-time ministry.” He referred to him as “a statesman in the pulpit” and applauded his frequent calls for Christians to step into the political space. Dalung echoed Emmanuel’s sentiments, noting that “prayer without political action will not transform Nigeria,” and decried the continued influence of corrupt leaders.

From the religious front, Bishop David Oyedepo lauded Pastor Emmanuel’s unwavering faith and dedication to kingdom advancement. “He has been a torchbearer of truth and purpose. His life reflects courage, vision, and an undiluted passion for souls,” Oyedepo said.

PFN President Bishop Francis Wale Oke described Emmanuel as “a man of deep conviction and divine purpose,” commending his efforts in mentoring future leaders and urging young pastors to emulate his example.

Speakers at the event highlighted Pastor Emmanuel’s journey from a trained civil engineer and political figure to a nationally revered preacher and social reformer. In his own remarks, Pastor Emmanuel expressed heartfelt gratitude to God and appreciated those who have supported him throughout his life and ministry.

“At 70, I am overwhelmed with gratitude. I thank God for the grace to serve, for every challenge, victory, and divine assistance along the way,” he said, emphasizing that the celebration was not about him but about the lives that have been touched through God’s grace working in him.

To mark the milestone, Pastor Emmanuel unveiled several outreach initiatives including empowerment schemes for the less privileged, free medical services, and eye care support through professional ophthalmologists. He also announced infrastructure projects such as road development and the provision of clean water, affirming his desire to leave a lasting impact on the community.

The celebration featured soul-lifting performances by renowned gospel artists like Evangelist Tope Alabi and Evangelist Funmilayo Aragbaye, alongside moving testimonies from members of the church, making the event a true reflection of a life lived in service to God and humanity.