By Emmanuel Oloniruha
Clerics and stakeholders have urged Nigerian children to look beyond societal norms and fleeting pleasures, encouraging them to embrace their divine potential and develop into “global stars” from an early age.
The call came on Sunday in Abuja during the 2025 Annual Love Feast for Children, organised by the Fruitful Welfare Initiative for Women and Children, a faith-based NGO focused on spiritual and academic mentorship.
The event attracted children and teenagers from across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Nasarawa State, providing a platform for guidance, inspiration, and encouragement for both spiritual and academic growth.
A highlight of the feast was the unveiling of four books authored by Dr Monisola Fadoju, Executive Director of the initiative, aimed at guiding the younger generation toward a fulfilled and purpose-driven life.
The books are titled I Am Uniquely Unique, The Escape Route, The Eagle’s Traits: Biblical Lessons for Spiritual Growth, and You Are a Star, each promoting spiritual growth and personal development.
Pastor Michael Adebayo, challenged children to reject labels of failure, asserting that they were created to lead, dominate, and break records in every area of life, encouraging them to see themselves as stars.
Using a “landlord and tenant” analogy, he taught children to exercise spiritual authority over challenges, emphasising that their bodies were temples where negative influences had no legal right to dwell.
He also stressed spiritual nutrition, noting that just as babies needed milk to grow, children needed the Word of God to grow spiritually and develop strong moral and ethical foundations.
Guest Speaker, Dr Eunice Ogundipe, encouraged children to “let their light shine” by excelling in chosen careers, while urging parents to model integrity and discipline, as children followed actions more than words.
Pastor James Toriola, described children as “pillars and the future of society,” advising them to choose discipline over temporary enjoyment and heed guidance from parents and mentors for lasting success.
Elder Adewale Owolo, cautioned against laziness, citing biblical figures such as David and Josiah, stressing that hard work, perseverance, and constant prayer were essential to achieving greatness.
Convener Dr Monisola Fadoju noted that the initiative had operated for more than 20 years, evolving from a small gathering into a strong fellowship, with the goal of nurturing children in the way of the Lord.
On her books, Fadoju said she aimed to raise a generation that was spiritually grounded and academically prepared for global success, highlighting the unique potential in each child to excel in spite of challenges.
Her husband, Mr Olatunji Fadoju, described children as “scarce gifts from God” who needed protection from negative societal influences and early leadership training to help them fulfill their God-given purpose.
He encouraged children to anchor their faith in Christ to withstand modern pressures and embrace opportunities to thrive spiritually, academically, and socially on the global stage. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Abiemwense Moru
