The National President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Bishop Francis Wale Oke, has stated that the ongoing “japa” phenomenon, characterised by a wave of Nigerians relocating abroad, has positive dimensions that should not be overlooked.

Speaking during the 2025 Annual Convention of his ministry, which also coincided with his birthday celebration at the church in Ibadan, Oyo State, Bishop Oke noted that while God created every Nigerian with a divine purpose in their homeland, travelling abroad can also open doors for greater achievements.

According to him, beyond seeking greener pastures, Nigerians in the diaspora have the opportunity to become vessels for spreading the gospel across the world.

“There are positive things attached to the japa syndrome. The original intention of God is for people who carry His glory to spread it all over the world by being fruitful and replenishing the earth,” he said.

The cleric emphasised the importance of Christians viewing migration as a divine opportunity for evangelism, urging them to sow seeds of faith wherever they go.

Looking ahead, Bishop Oke also declared that the year 2033 would be a landmark in Christian history, marking 2,000 years since the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, which he described as the “2,000th year of modern-day Pentecost.”

He called on Nigerian Christians, both at home and abroad, to prepare for this prophetic season by living purposefully and spreading the word of God.