The General Overseer of Foursquare Gospel Church in Nigeria, Rev. Sam Aboyeji, has urged Nigerians, particularly youths, to shun violence and embrace actions capable of promoting peaceful coexistence and sustainable national development.

Aboyeji made the call at a media parley held ahead of the 13th Annual Public Lecture of the church, scheduled to take place on Thursday, September 10, 2026, at The Marquee, Harbour Point, Wilmot Close, off Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The lecture, with the theme, “Building to Last: Faith, Infrastructure and the Future of a Nation,” to commence 10.00 a.m. is open to members of the public, irrespective of tribe, race, religion or political affiliation.

He said the programme was part of activities preceding the 71st Annual National Convention of the church, adding that the lecture would provide an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the challenges and prospects of nation-building.

According to him, sustainable development goes beyond the construction of physical infrastructure, stressing that lasting progress requires strong institutions and citizens guided by sound values.

“A nation is not built just by constructing roads, bridges, railways, airports, schools and hospitals.

“Real, lasting development requires something deeper. It requires people and institutions grounded in values, vision, competence, integrity and faith in a better future,” he said.

Aboyeji noted that Nigeria possesses enormous potential, including abundant human and natural resources, an entrepreneurial population and a large youthful demographic with opportunities across virtually every sector of the economy.

He, however, said translating these advantages into sustainable prosperity would depend largely on the quality of infrastructure, strength of institutions, values upheld by citizens and the quality of leadership provided at all levels.

The cleric also described the forthcoming convention as one of the largest gatherings of the Foursquare family in Nigeria, saying it would provide opportunities for spiritual renewal, fellowship, leadership development and honest reflection.

He added that the convention would also enable the church to recommit itself to the Great Commission.

Aboyeji disclosed that the former Minister of State for Budget and Planning, Prince Clement Agba, would chair the public lecture, while former Chairman of Odu’a Investment Company, Dr. Segun Aina, would serve as a guest speaker.

Panelists include the Managing Director of the Association for Consulting Engineering in Nigeria (ACEN), Olufunmilayo Kadri; Professional Engineer and Management Executive, Joseph Ciroma; and former Minister of Aviation, Chief Osita Chidoka.

The Chairman, 71st National Convention Planning Committee, Rev. Charles Fashola remarked that the focus of the lecture is on the youth, hence buses will be provided to bring students from University of Lagos, Lagos State University, Covenant University, McPherson University as well as National Youth Service Corps members to participate in the programme. He added that with their participation, they would be equipped with information that would make them start thinking differently.

Assurance was also given of adequate security measures put in place at Ajebo, the Convention Camp ground where in addition to CCTV fixed all over the place, all levels of armed forces will also be on surveillance.

Arrangement has also been made for sufficient accommodation for participants.