The International Friendship League (IFL) on Saturday, May 30, 2026, held a special programme and prayer session for Nigeria, families, businessmen and women, professionals, and clergymen with the theme, "Shelter in the Storm."
The programme, which took place at Rockview Hotel, Owerri, witnessed a large turnout of participants as the Amachi Hall was filled to capacity. The event attracted individuals who came with prepared hearts to learn practical life survival principles, listen to inspiring testimonies of God's faithfulness in business and family life, and receive spiritual encouragement.
According to the profile of the International Friendship League, the organisation is a non denominational fellowship of highly placed persons in both the private and public sectors of the Nigerian economy. It serves as a platform for networking and interaction among members with a view to helping them grow spiritually and live consistent Christian lives while promoting success in family, business, professional, and ministerial endeavours.
In his opening remarks, the Chairman of the occasion and Vice Chancellor of Abia State University, Uturu, Professor Ndukwe J. Okeudo, noted that there are different gatherings organised by various groups such as alumni associations, social clubs, and other organisations. However, he pointed out that what distinguishes the International Friendship League is its ability to combine networking with spiritual enrichment and guidance.
He encouraged participants to remain open minded and make it a habit to attend programmes that contribute to both their personal and spiritual development. Drawing from his wealth of experience, he also shared useful security tips with the participants.
Experts in health and security also delivered insightful presentations aimed at helping participants stay healthy and safe amid the challenges posed by diseases and insecurity in the country.
Among the resource persons were Dr. Stephen Ndeamaefo, who spoke on health related matters, and Pastor Christian Iwueke, a security consultant, who provided practical security advice.
The programme was skilfully moderated by Pastor James Ngoka, a former Permanent Secretary in the Imo State Government House, alongside Pastor Barrister Chidi Akalugau, a Magistrate in Imo State.
The high point of the programme was the message delivered by the State Overseer of Deeper Life Bible Church, Imo State, Pastor Emmanuel Okoro. Speaking on the topic, "The Supreme Question Man Needs to Answer," he challenged participants with the biblical question: "What shall it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses his soul?"
He divided his message into three major areas: The Gain of the Godless, The Loss of the Lost, and The Message from the Master. He reminded participants that the wisest decision anyone can make is to run to Jesus Christ as their shelter in times of life's storms and uncertainties.
Speaking with journalists after the programme, the cleric described the event as one of the special programmes through which God touches and transforms lives. He noted that the programme served as an eye opener for participants, especially in areas of security, health, and social living.
According to him, many people had limited knowledge of certain issues affecting their daily lives, but through the presentations by the various experts, they gained valuable insights capable of helping them navigate contemporary challenges more effectively.
In his concluding remarks, Pastor Okoro expressed optimism that the programme had made a positive impact on the lives of those who attended. He advised participants to jettison fear and continually seek refuge in God, whom he described as the true shelter in times of storm.
In his vote of thanks, Pastor Peter Okonkwo expressed appreciation to all those who contributed to the success of the programme. He thanked participants, organisers, speakers, and guests for their commitment and sacrifices in ensuring a successful event despite various challenges.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Imo State chapter of the International Friendship League, Pastor Michael Anaele, a retired diplomat in the Nigerian Foreign Service, described the programme as an effective avenue for propagating the Gospel of Jesus Christ among highly placed individuals in society.
He explained that many professionals, business executives, public office holders, and other VIPs are often occupied with the demands of daily life and may not always have the opportunity to attend regular fellowship meetings. According to him, the International Friendship League was established to bring such individuals together for fellowship, spiritual growth, and the sharing of life changing experiences.
Pastor Anaele expressed delight over the success of the programme and commended all those who attended. He expressed confidence that the lessons learned and prayers offered during the event would contribute positively to the lives of participants, their families, businesses, and the nation at large.
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