Concerned about the growing emotional, economic and spiritual challenges confronting many women, Dr. Meg Ibru renowned Pharmacist and SMA, has reaffirmed her commitment to helping women discover that every setback can become the beginning of a new journey.

Speaking at the interdenominational “Finding Inner Peace” conference held at the Issyma Centre, Ikeja GRA, Lagos, Dr. Ibru said her passion for organising women-focused conferences stems from her desire to provide women with a safe space to reflect, heal and rebuild their lives through faith, meditation, prayer and shared experiences.

More than 50 women, including members of a Widows Ministry, participated in the conference, where they were encouraged to embrace healing, resilience and renewed hope in God.

“Women need a second chance. Sometimes we believe we are finished or that we are not good enough. But as long as you are alive, God is still giving you another opportunity,” she said.

Dr. Ibru explained that her vision aligns with the mission of the Society of African Missions (SMA), whose members are committed to serving the poor, the forgotten and the marginalised without discrimination.

“I became a Lay Associate because the vision of the Society resonates with my own vision-to be a voice for the voiceless, to restore hope, dignity and acceptance to people who feel forgotten,” she said.

She described the Issyma Centre as an interdenominational meeting place where Christians from different traditions gather in love, mutual respect and fellowship to seek God’s direction for their lives.

According to her, the conference series addresses real-life issues affecting women. Previous editions focused on marriage, family relationships and the importance of silence-creating quiet moments to encounter God through prayer and reflection.

She said this year’s theme, “Finding Inner Peace,” was inspired by the emotional and economic pressures confronting many Nigerians.

“We all need moments of calmness. Sometimes, simply becoming quiet before God allows Him to begin a new work in our lives. When women hear the testimonies and experiences of others, they realise they are not alone and that their own situations can also change,” she said.

Although the programme was planned for 25 participants, attendance more than doubled after members of a Widows Ministry unexpectedly joined the gathering. Dr. Ibru described the overwhelming turnout as another demonstration of God’s provision, noting that despite the additional expenses, every participant was fed and cared for.

The conference featured presentations by Very Rev. Father Shola Atolagbe, SMA, Director of Promotions of the Society of African Missions, and Bishop Funsho Awe of the Orthodox Anglican Church. Both speakers encouraged participants to pursue God’s peace, remain steadfast during life’s challenges and anchor their hope in Christ.

The highlights of the event included guided meditation, Bible reading, heartfelt prayers and small-group discussions where women openly shared experiences of pain, loss, restoration and victory in an atmosphere of trust and confidentiality. Participants were welcomed with breakfast, while lunch, snacks and refreshments were served throughout the day, creating opportunities for fellowship and deeper interaction.

One of the participants, Christy Emmanuel, founder of the Vibrant Ladies Foundation, described the gathering as inspiring and life-transforming. She urged women facing financial hardship to remain hopeful, seek expert guidance, save consistently and trust God. She also encouraged families to keep fire extinguishers and first-aid kits at home while learning basic emergency response skills.

Christy further advised women experiencing physical, spiritual or material losses to cast their burdens on God, remain calm and rely on the support of trusted family members, friends and fellow believers.

Shortly after the conference ended, Dr. Ibru’s message on inner peace was put to a personal test when she received news that her home had caught fire. At the same time, she experienced severe pain that temporarily left her unable to move her legs.

Despite the devastating incident, she refused to panic, choosing instead to trust God completely.
“My peace is not independent on material things. It depends on God. Everything can disappear in a moment, but God’s presence remains constant,” she said.

Although the fire destroyed part of her home and valuable belongings, Dr. Ibru said the experience reinforced the conference’s central message-that true peace comes not from possessions but from an unwavering relationship with God.

The conference concluded with a renewed call for women to embrace faith over fear, support one another and remember that every challenge can become the beginning of a new chapter when their hope is anchored in God.