The General Overseer of the Gospel Believers’ Mission (GBM), Rev. (Dr.) Ezra Jako, has urged Nigerians to remain hopeful, stressing that as long as there is life, there are opportunities for renewal and restoration.

He said challenges, no matter how overwhelming they may appear, should be seen as stepping stones toward growth and transformation, noting that difficult times often provide opportunities for reflection, faith, and renewed determination to build a better future.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of the 2025 GBM Annual Convention, themed “Divine Visitation for Restoration,” held simultaneously in Abuja and Lagos, Rev. Jako said the gathering comes at a prophetic time when God seeks to restore hope, confidence, and trust to His people and to the nation.

Rev. Jako reminded Nigerians that despair only breeds stagnation, while hope fuels creativity, resilience, and the courage to start again even after setbacks. He called on both leaders and citizens to unite in rebuilding the country’s moral and spiritual foundations, urging everyone to remain steadfast in prayer, honesty, and service, as collective renewal begins with individual change.

He affirmed that with faith, perseverance, and a shared vision for progress, families, communities, and the nation at large can experience true restoration and lasting peace.
“One thing we must never lose in life is hope. If there is no hope, there is no help. History shows that kingdoms rise and fall, economies rise and fall, but those who hold onto faith always partake in the season of rising. Many people give up too soon, and when the blessing comes, they are no longer there to enjoy it,” he said.

Rev. Jako described the annual convention as a blend of spiritual renewal and social engagement, designed to address moral, emotional, and physical needs. He explained that the church’s teachings, seminars, and outreach programmes are structured to address family counseling, youth development, and community support.

The General Overseer dismissed claims that the Church had failed in its role as the conscience of society, insisting that it remains strong and resilient despite challenges.
“The Church is marching on, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it,” he said. “We are a living body; we grow, we mature, and we get better. The Church is not a building or a denomination; it is made up of individual believers doing their best wherever they are.
“This year’s theme, ‘Divine Visitation for Restoration,’ is a continuation of that divine journey. Just as Sarah laughed before the promise came to pass, Nigeria too will laugh again when the season of visitation arrives.”

The convention, which runs from October 30 to November 9, will culminate in a grand finale on Sunday, featuring thanksgiving, testimonies, and recognition of members who have contributed to the mission’s growth.

Other highlights include the “Doing Good Challenge” a nationwide month-long programme encouraging members to perform acts of kindness within their communities.
“We are not a social-media church. We are a family church. Our mission is not to build massive auditoriums but to build people — body, soul, and spirit. And when God visits His people, He restores what was lost, renews their strength, and revives their destiny,” Rev. Jako said.

He added that Nigeria and the Church are on the threshold of a divine awakening, noting that the 2025 convention would serve as a prophetic call for renewal, redemption, and revival.

Quoting Luke 1:68, he said, “Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for He hath visited and redeemed His people.” He explained that the theme carries a divine message for a nation in search of hope, healing, and transformation.
“God is set to visit His people again in a mighty way. We believe this convention will mark a turning point — a time of personal revival, national renewal, and spiritual restoration,” he added.

According to him, the four-day event will feature worship, prophetic ministries, healing and revival services, teaching sessions, and youth empowerment workshops. Among the guest ministers expected are renowned evangelist Bishop Abraham Olaleye and other anointed men and women of God.
“This is not just another convention; it is a divine appointment,” Rev. Jako said. “We expect an outpouring of God’s power that will touch lives, families, and even the nation’s leadership.”

As part of the programme, the Mission has launched a large-scale humanitarian campaign titled “Operation GBM Hand of Mercy,” running from October 30 to November 1, under its Hand of Mercy Foundation.

The initiative includes free medical services, empowerment for widows and orphans, support for IDPs, and distribution of food and clothing to underprivileged families. The church will also visit orphanages and vulnerable communities across the country to extend care and support.