Hardship: PFN Declares 40 Days Prayer, Fasting

The national president of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) has declared 40 days of prayer and fasting to address the country’s hardship.

Speaking to journalists yesterday in Abuja, PFN President Bishop Francis Wale Oke expressed faith that God will lead Nigeria out of its current challenges and into prosperity.

The announcement came as Bishop Oke shared details about the upcoming 18th biennial PFN conference, scheduled to take place in Abuja from February 10 to 14, 2025. The conference theme is “The Rebirth of a Great Nation: Nigeria is Great.”

Oke explained that in preparation for the conference, the PFN has declared 40 days of prayer and fasting for Nigeria, beginning January 6 and culminating on February 14, 2025.

“We are mobilising all Pentecostal churches, believers in Christ, charismatic churches, and everyone who loves God to cry out to Him on behalf of our nation,” he said.
“In the Bible, when judgment was pronounced on Nineveh, the king and people cried out for mercy, and God heard their prayers. We believe that the same God who delivered Nineveh is alive today and will hear our cry.”
The 40-day prayer and fasting period will end on February 14 with a national gathering in Abuja. Pentecostal leaders will pray for mercy upon the nation, its government at all levels, and every Nigerian.

“This period of prayer and fasting is a key aspect of our biennial conference,” Oke added. “We believe God will answer our prayers.”

Speaking about the upcoming conference, Oke noted, “On February 10, we will launch the PFN gathering, where prominent Nigerians from diverse backgrounds will address the nation and our leaders, offering guidance on how we can collectively overcome these challenges.”

He emphasised that the nation’s issues require a collective effort: “Nigeria’s challenges are our collective responsibility—not just that of the leaders but also the citizens. Together, we can bring Nigeria out of hardship through cooperation and commitment. Our part is to pray, educate, and support efforts at every level.”

Considering the nation’s current state, Oke compared it to a mother in labour: “Nigeria is in a painful process, like a mother about to deliver. But we believe that a ‘new Nigeria’ will emerge.”
Also, the deputy vice president of PFN, Arc. John Praise Daniel highlighted the PFN’s commitment to Nigeria’s peace and progress.

“No matter the challenges, Nigeria is on the brink of achieving greatness. We foresee a future where Nigeria becomes a model for the world.

“We believe that, through prayer and fasting, God will heal our land.
“The Bible says that the prayer of faith can save the sick. Like a sick nation, Nigeria will be saved, and a future of prosperity, economic strength, and peace will follow. Kidnapping, banditry, and bloodshed will be in the past, and Nigeria will fulfil its destiny as a great nation,” he said.