Former First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, Dr Martha Udom-Emmanuel, has urged Christian women in leadership and ministry to become agents of positive change in society, stressing the need for integrity, compassion and excellence in their daily engagements.

She gave the charge at the 12th edition of the Female Ministers Conference organised by Victory Life Bible Church International at the Sheraton Hotel, where she challenged female ministers to take their Christian values beyond the church and make meaningful contributions in the wider society.

Speaking on the place of women in the marketplace, Udom-Emmanuel said Christian women must recognise that their influence should extend to workplaces, businesses, corporate organisations and other social spaces where they interact with people of different backgrounds and beliefs.

According to her, such environments may present resistance to their convictions, making it important for them to establish credibility through their conduct and professional competence. She maintained that women who profess Christianity must ensure that their actions reflect the values they claim to uphold.

She also emphasised the importance of excellence, urging Christian women not to be complacent or casual about their responsibilities.

“One thing that will help you in your marketplaces is excellence in what you do. As Christians, you must not be lazy or laid-back. You must be excellent in whatever you do,” she said.

Beyond professional conduct, the former First Lady called for greater compassion and understanding in relating with people, particularly those facing difficult circumstances. She cautioned against being judgmental towards vulnerable members of society, including young people who may have become involved in destructive activities, noting that many need guidance, love, encouragement and positive influence rather than condemnation.

She urged female ministers to identify with people in need, offer hope and extend the message of the Gospel to those outside the walls of the church.

In a related contribution, Pastor Toyin Poju-Oyemade of The Covenant Nation challenged women to remain conscious of their identity and divine assignment, regardless of the pressures and circumstances confronting them.

Speaking on the topic, “The Queen and the Palace,” she drew lessons from biblical figures such as Ruth, Esther, Daniel and Joseph, whose lives demonstrated faith, courage and the ability to fulfil purpose despite difficult situations.

She urged women not to allow their circumstances to determine their sense of worth or diminish their confidence in God.

“Don’t allow your circumstances to define who you are. Walk with your head high. Your King is the Almighty God,” she said.

Poju-Oyemade also drew attention to the emotional and personal demands often placed on women in ministry, particularly pastors’ wives. She observed that some could become so occupied with attending to the needs of others that their own emotional needs were neglected.

“Many pastors’ wives are married singles. They are available for everybody outside, but sometimes their spouses are not available to show up for them,” she said.

She encouraged women to understand their individual assignments, resist the temptation to measure their lives by external standards and avoid comparing themselves with others. She further stressed the importance of healthy relationships, support systems and community, warning that isolation could leave people vulnerable.

Also contributing to discussions at the conference, Pastor Rose Yusuf of Household of Love Churches addressed issues relating to women, ministry and the responsibilities associated with serving in the Christian community.

Speaking with journalists after the programme, the Founder and General Overseer of Victory Life Bible Church International, Apostle Lawrence Achudume, paid tribute to his late wife, Reverend Fola Achudume, whose passion for women and children inspired the establishment and growth of the Female Ministers Conference.

He recalled her commitment to the spiritual development and welfare of women, noting that she had made significant contributions through her ministry and various initiatives. He also acknowledged that her work had created a legacy worthy of remembrance and expressed confidence that the impact of her efforts would continue to be felt by generations to come.

The conference itself remains one of the enduring expressions of Reverend Fola Achudume’s vision to encourage, equip and strengthen women in ministry. Her contributions to the lives of women and children, as well as the platform she helped establish, continue to provide a basis for the gathering and its mission.

The programme also featured a panel session, which provided participants with an opportunity to engage with issues affecting women, ministry and their responsibilities in contemporary society. Interactive activities, including games based on biblical principles, added an engaging dimension to the conference.