The Living Impact Christian Centre (LICC) in Lagos hosted its annual Men’s Conference today, a vibrant celebration of fatherhood and leadership that coincided with Father’s Day. The event, themed “L.E.A.D.” — standing for Love, Excellence, Accountability, and Discipleship — drew hundreds of men to the church’s headquarters, where they were inspired by messages of faith, purpose, and community impact. The conference blended spiritual insights, practical workshops, and a forward-looking building project announcement, leaving attendees equipped and motivated to lead with intentionality.

A Warm Welcome and Remarkable Achievements
The day began with a heartfelt welcome address by Olusegun Dosunmu, President of The Visionary Men fellowship, LICC’s men’s ministry. Dosunmu highlighted the group’s accomplishments over the past year, showcasing their commitment to personal and community development. He proudly announced the success of the aviation scholarship program, a collaboration with the Isaac Balami Foundation. Five recipients from the previous Father’s Day conference had graduated as flight dispatchers, cabin crew, and aircraft technicians. “These are the high flyers and wing warriors of Nigeria’s aviation industry,” Dosunmu said, celebrating their transformation into skilled professionals.

He also shared the fulfilment of a one-year scholarship for a secondary school student, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals for quality education. “We recently paid her third-term tuition, ensuring her dreams stay alive,” he noted. Dosunmu attributed these successes to divine guidance and collective effort, stating, “No dream is too big when a community stands together to achieve it.”

A Call to Appreciate Fathers
The spiritual centrepiece of the conference was a special service led by Dr. Wale Olasoji, Senior Pastor of LICC, who emphasised the vital role fathers play in families and society. Speaking on the theme “L.E.A.D.,” Dr. Olasoji urged attendees to view Father’s Day as a time to honour fathers’ contributions rather than adding to their burdens. “Father’s Day should not be first an opportunity to reel out more responsibilities, but one to acknowledge that which has already been done,” he said, striking a chord with the audience.

Drawing from Jeremiah 35: 1-4, Dr. Olasoji recounted the story of the Rechabites, a family who honoured their father’s command to abstain from wine even under pressure. He used this example to illustrate the enduring influence of a father’s leadership. “A father’s prayer is like God speaking over his children’s lives,” he said, encouraging men to recognise their spiritual authority. He challenged fathers to embody the “L.E.A.D.” values: to love intentionally, pursue excellence, remain accountable, and disciple their households according to God’s word.

Dr. Olasoji also addressed the complexities of fatherhood, noting, “Some fathers weren’t present because they were out trying to bring presents.” His call for understanding and forgiveness resonated deeply, urging attendees to appreciate fathers despite their imperfections.

Visionary Leadership from Chief Jimi Agbaje
The conference welcomed Chief Jimi Agbaje, former Lagos State gubernatorial candidate, as the guest speaker. Agbaje’s keynote address reinforced the theme of leadership, urging men to lead with integrity and vision. “Leadership is not reserved for the highly educated but for those with integrity and vision,” he said, inspiring attendees to be a light in their communities.

Agbaje emphasised that fatherhood extends beyond provision, stressing the importance of emotional connection. “If your child only approaches you when they need something, then it’s time to reflect and make a change,” he remarked, encouraging fathers to be present and engaged. He also underscored the value of excellence, stating, “Excellence allows no excuses,” and urged men to carry out their responsibilities as unto God, not merely for human approval. His words aligned seamlessly with the “L.E.A.D.” framework, reinforcing the call to lead by example in character and purpose.

Practical Tools for Growth
Beyond the keynote addresses, the conference featured workshops and panel discussions designed to equip men with actionable skills. Topics ranged from mentorship and spiritual leadership to excellence in professional life. In the “Mentorship: Guiding the Next Generation” session, facilitators emphasised the role of fathers in shaping young lives, while “Excellence in Action” provided strategies for maintaining high standards at home and work. These interactive sessions fostered dialogue and unity, leaving participants with practical tools to apply the “L.E.A.D.” principles.

A Vision for the Future
A significant moment came when Dosunmu unveiled plans for a new auditorium to accommodate LICC’s growing congregation. “This is not just a building; it is a sanctuary of worship and a legacy for tomorrow,” he declared, inviting attendees to contribute. The announcement sparked enthusiasm, symbolising the church’s commitment to its community and future generations. “Through Christ who strengthens us, there is no limit to what we can accomplish,” Dosunmu added, echoing the fellowship’s faith-driven mission.

Father’s Day: A Time for Recognition
Both Dr. Olasoji and Chief Agbaje underscored that Father’s Day should focus on appreciating fathers as foundational figures. Dr. Olasoji’s sermon highlighted the Bible’s warnings about fatherlessness and its affirmation of paternal influence, while Agbaje called for fathers to build stronger emotional bonds. Together, their messages reframed the day as a celebration of fathers’ sacrifices and a call to lead with love and purpose.

The conference concluded with a father’s blessing from Dr. Olasoji, a moving moment that reaffirmed the day’s themes. Attendees left with a renewed commitment to the “L.E.A.D.” values, inspired to make a lasting impact in their families and beyond.