A new era of youth leadership was inaugurated under the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) as Apostle Emmanuel Iren formally assumed office as President of the PFN Youth Wing. Themed “Unity, Purpose, Power,” the event held on 10th of June drew national attention with thousands joining online and in person to witness what many described as a defining moment for Christian youth in Nigeria.
The program opened with prayers led by Pastor Edward Olumese of North-Light Ministries and Pastor Philip Olubakin of Supernatural Life Church, setting a tone of spiritual reflection and unity. Prominent leaders across generations and denominations were present, reinforcing the wide support behind the newly commissioned Youth Wing.
“Unite or fade out,” said Apostle Femi Lazarus of Light Nation Church during the symposium segment. He emphasized that unity is not optional in the days ahead, but a necessity for spiritual impact. Apostle Emmanuel Iren and Pastor Karis AmehWealth of Gloryzone Church Jos, echoed the call—highlighting both supernatural grounding and strategic collaboration. Pastor Karis pointed to the resilience of churches in Northern Nigeria: “No breaking of ranks. No different agenda. One purpose.”
Another theme that dominated the event was the unapologetic embrace of the supernatural. “To do church the Bible way is to do church the supernatural way,” Apostle Femi added, rejecting trends that downplay Pentecostal distinctiveness.
Pastor Yemi Davids, Chairman of PFN Lagos State Chapter and Lead Pastor of Global Impact Church, reminded the audience that visibility does not determine value. “The hands are not greater than the heart just because they’re seen,” he said, urging the younger generation to honour the foundations laid before them and build forward with purpose.
The official handover was conducted by Bishop David Bakare—National Secretary of the PFN and Presiding Bishop of Jesus Is Life World Outreach Ministries—on behalf of PFN National President, Bishop Francis Wale Oke. Apostle Emmanuel Iren was formally installed alongside the new executive team, who received the PFN flag in a symbolic moment of commissioning.
Also present was Pastor Poju Oyemade, Senior Pastor of Covenant Christian Centre and former President of the PFN Youth Wing. He prayed a blessing over the Youth Wing executives, asking for wisdom, unity, and strength as they step into their national mandate.
The event drew notable Christian leaders and PFN executives including Pastor Daniel Olawande (RCCG The Envoys), Pastor Shola Okodugha (The New), Pastor Sam Obiorah (City of Transformation Church), Pastor Oge Ogwe (Circle Church), Pastor Ohis Ojeikere (The Winlos, The Votage Church), and youth representatives from PFN chapters across the country.
In his first official address as President, Apostle Iren made a strong case for servant-leadership as the model for the future: “We will not be led by titles or platforms, but by the heart of Scripture, which is servant-leadership.”
He also introduced a bold blueprint to guide the Youth Wing’s next decade. It includes:
A partnership program for campus fellowships
Doctrinal training on core Christian beliefs
Political engagement initiatives for youths
A national PFN Youth Welfare Fund
Structured outreach support to churches in Northern Nigeria
“The future is not tomorrow; it is the choices we make today,” Apostle Iren said, charging young Christians to rise with conviction, competence, and Christ-centred purpose.
The message from the gathering was clear: a fresh wave of leadership is emerging; unified, intentional, and ready to carry both the torch of truth and the weight of responsibility.
Media Contact:
Oge C. Ogwe [email protected]
About PFN Youth Wing:
The Youth Wing of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria is committed to equipping young believers through discipleship, leadership development, and advocacy rooted in sound doctrine and spiritual conviction. It serves as the youth mobilization arm of PFN, Nigeria’s largest Pentecostal umbrella body.
