By Olayinka Latona

The General Overseer of the Abundant Life Gospel Church (ALGC), Rev. Dr. Janet Onaolapo, has called for a national rebirth anchored on integrity, righteousness and collective responsibility, stressing that Nigeria’s progress depends on both citizens and leaders embracing positive values.

She made the call during the church’s annual Christmas Eve programme, tagged “Event of Joy” Praise Concert, held in Fagba, Lagos. The celebration featured a two-kilometre “Jesus Rally” street procession and a praise concert headlined by leading gospel music ministers.

Rev. Onaolapo, who also serves as Vice Chairman of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Lagos Chapter, said Nigeria’s moral and social challenges cannot be resolved by government alone, urging citizens to take responsibility for national transformation.

“We should not give up on Nigeria,” she said. “Individually, let us think of what we can do as a nation, not only what the government can do for us. There is a need to change our values. If we, the citizens, change our lifestyle and begin to pursue godliness, love, peace and unity, Nigeria will experience real change.”

She also challenged political leaders to lead with integrity, justice and compassion, noting that good governance must be rooted in righteousness and equity.

“If government and citizens do their part, then Nigeria will be a better place,” she added. “Nigeria will flourish if we do the right thing.”

The “Event of Joy” commenced with a 2,000-person Jesus Rally along Iju Road, stretching from Agege to Elliot, before culminating in a praise concert at Fagba. According to Rev. Onaolapo, the initiative was designed not only to celebrate the birth of Christ but also to impact the community positively.

“This is truly an event of joy to mankind,” she said, referencing the biblical message of glad tidings. She disclosed that the church provided free medical care, distributed food items, clothing and cash gifts to hundreds of beneficiaries, and organised special outreach programmes for widows and single mothers.

Chairman of the Planning Committee, Deacon Ibukun Adewole, described the event as a day of “giving, praising, sharing and celebrating,” with a central message that “Jesus Christ is the reason for the season.”

“Abundant Life Gospel Church believes in impacting lives through outreaches, not only spiritually but across every area of life,” Adewole said. “This fifth edition featured the Jesus Rally — a 2,000-man walk along the entire length of Iju Road — culminating in a praise concert at Fagba.”

The concert featured performances by renowned gospel artistes including Mercy Chinwo, Esther Igbekele and Tosin Bee. It also included a quiz competition with cash prizes and gift items for participants.

Abundant Life Gospel Church is widely known for its outreach-driven ministry and commitment to evangelism, community service and social impact.