By Prisca Sam-Duru

The hard interlocking ground of the headquarters of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission’s (TREM) sports arena in Lagos, became a theater of joy, resilience, and sisterhood on Friday, May 1st, 2026, as over 700 women gathered for the 2026 TREM Christian Women Fellowship (CWF) Sports Day.

Themed “Stronger, Secure, Settled,” the event was far more than a physical competition; it was a brazen display of vitality. From well-coordinated march-pasts to high-energy races and parades, the participants, many of whom were over the age of 50, proved that age is merely a number when fueled by spirit and determination.

It was indeed a day of fitness and fun. Under the guidance of experienced sports masters, women of all shapes and sizes were grouped into nine “Houses” to compete in a variety of lighthearted yet spirited activities. The events included a Queens Parade, Bursting the Balloon, Sack race, Catch the train, Swagger Parade, Targeting the Basket, a classic Lime and Spoon race and more.

At the conclusion of the games, which was anchored by beautiful Regina Chris-Ogbodo, Blue House emerged as the overall champions, winning the highest number of gold, silver, and bronze medals. A notable addition to this year’s competition was the Imperial Network, an international organization participating for the first time, whose members received certificates of participation.

Beyond the trophies, the event emphasized “Holistic Prosperity.” A dedicated medical station provided free screenings, including fasting blood sugar tests, blood pressure checks, and PCV tests.

Delivering an exhortation based on 3 John 1:2, titled “Holistic Prosperity” Rev. Bola Odiaka reminded the women that God is deeply interested in their physical well-being. “Our health must be in shape because God wants us to prosper,” she said. “We must pay attention to what we eat, avoid junk food, hydrate properly, and ensure we rest. While we take care of our bodies, we must also nurture our souls for eternity.”

TREM CWF Chairperson, Mrs. O. M. Omonubi echoed this sentiment, noting that the theme “Stronger, Secure, Settled” represents a state of supernatural restoration and prosperity following a period of challenges.

The event also served as a kickoff for the birthday celebrations of Bishop Peace Okonkwo, whose birthday falls on June 6. Deaconess Doris Anyaoha, Chairperson of the 2026 Sports Day, noted that the day is designed for women to “network, bond, burn fat, and keep fit” away from the draining demands of daily life.

Deaconess Anyaoha, disclosed further that the event was held in celebration of “our big mummy, Bishop Peace Okonkwo. The Sports Day usually precedes her birthday, which is on the 6th of June. It is the first of many activities held for her birthday.”

Reflecting on the growth of the initiative, Bishop Peace Okonkwo expressed gratitude to God for the clement weather and the massive turnout.

“The inaugural edition wasn’t like this, but it has grown from glory to glory,” the Bishop remarked. “It tells us that nobody is too old to do anything for Christ. We encourage women worldwide: don’t just sit at home. This is good for the Body of Christ, and we hope women in other denominations start something similar to the glory of God.”