ABUJA- The Senior Pastor, First Baptist Church, Garki in Abuja, Rev. Tom Takpatore, has emphasised the power of collective prayer amidst Nigeria’s challenges.
Takpatore said this in an interview with newsmen in Abuja on Sunday, at the sidelines of the Church’s annual thanksgiving tagged, ‘White Robe Sunday’.
According to him, as Nigerians, if we gather together and sincerely repent and turn to God in fasting and prayers, great wonders will happen.”
He said that the Church had been on 21-day spiritual exercise (fasting and prayers) since January 6, in ine with its 2025 theme, “Our Year of ‘Enlargement”.
He said that the event aimed at seeking divine intervention and guidance for the nation through intercessory prayer, worship, and inspiring messages for citizens and leaders at all levels.
Responding to doubts about the efficacy of prayers, the pastor said that without prayers, the nation’s struggles could be worse.
He urged Nigerians to unite in repentance and faith, adding that fasting transforms individuals to align with God’s blessings.
“Someone is asking that despite the fact that we are praying, we are still faced with some challenges in the country.
“My response will be, Nigerian should wait to see what will happen if there are no prayers.
“Check through history, very few countries have gone through what Nigeria has gone through and still remain as a country,” he said.
Takpatore expressed hope that sincere national prayers and action would usher in divine intervention for Nigeria’s progress.
Mr Bassey Effiong, a deacon in the Church,
described the significance of White Robe Sunday as a day of thanksgiving and worship.
He emphasised its role in celebrating God’s goodness and answered prayers, while expressing hope for the year ahead.
Addressing Nigeria’s challenges, he highlighted the nation’s potentials, urging citizens to view it with their hearts to recognise its greatness.
Effiong expressed optimism that Nigeria would achieve its promise within this generation, emphasising unity and faith as key drivers of progress.
Mrs Adebimpe Ojo, the President of the Women Missionary Union of the Church, shared testimonies of God’s faithfulness during the annual 21-day prayer and fasting programme.
Ojo, who is also a deaconess in the Church, said that members experienced miraculous healing, promotion breakthroughs, and spiritual renewal during the fasting period.
“These testimonies inspire faith, affirming that God’s power continues to transform lives and open doors for His people. The church anticipates even greater miracles in the coming days,” she said. (NAN)
