Pastor Enoch Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has shared a moving account of his journey from barefoot days in secondary school to becoming one of the most influential Christian leaders in the world.

Speaking at the 50th anniversary celebration of the All Christians Fellowship Mission (ACFM) in Abuja, Adeboye reflected on his humble beginnings in a village so small it wasn’t on Nigeria’s map. He recalled seasons when faith was his only currency, yet God’s faithfulness never failed.

“Your promotion is not in the hand of man. Your promotion is in the hand of God,” Adeboye told the congregation, urging Nigerians not to define themselves by present hardships but to trust God as the ultimate promoter.

The service was also a celebration of ACFM’s remarkable journey from a modest “batcher” to a global mission with churches across Nigeria, Rwanda, Uganda, and Burkina Faso. Its founder, Rev. Williams Okoye, described the theme, “God Our Helper” (1 Samuel 7:12), as both timely and fitting.

Guests, including former Senate President Anyim Pius Anyim and Full Gospel Businessmen’s Fellowship leader Ifeanyi Odedo, shared heartfelt testimonies of how the church shaped their lives, faith, and public service.

For Pastor Adeboye, the day was more than an anniversary—it was living proof that no beginning is too small for God to transform into greatness.

General Superintendent of Deeper Life Bible Church, Pastor William Kumuyi, has cautioned members against agitating over who will succeed him, insisting that the decision rests with God alone.

Speaking during a recent Bible study programme, the 83-year-old cleric said he would not be pressured into stepping aside, warning that such moves undermine his mission.

Referring to comments made by a young preacher who said “there is no leadership without a successor,” Kumuyi said it was inappropriate to push the issue while he is still actively leading the church.

“God will give a successor at His own time,” he said. “I reject any attempt by members to control me. I won’t even take that from my wife because I am the head of the home.”

Kumuyi urged members to appreciate his continued strength and commitment to preaching the gospel, adding that biblical examples show leadership changes happen according to divine will.

“When the time comes, God will choose a man after His own heart. Don’t try to drive me away, even though I know you cannot,” he said.

“Victory Is Not By Strength Alone”: Pastor Adeboye Reveals His Boxing Past And Shares Timeless Life Lessons

In an unexpected and inspiring revelation, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor E.A. Adeboye, has shared a rare story from his youth — one that links his time as a boxer in the 1960s to powerful lessons on hard work, discipline, and divine involvement in life’s journey.

Speaking during the August Thanksgiving Service, themed “The Winning Team,” Pastor Adeboye captivated thousands of worshippers as he recalled the intensity of his early training days and how a single comment from his coach became a guiding principle for the rest of his life.

 “We asked our coach why he was pushing us so hard, even though we weren’t joining the army,” he recounted. “He replied, ‘What’s wrong with you, stupid boys? The strength I’m building in you — will you return it to me when you leave?’ That question has stayed with me ever since.”

According to Pastor Adeboye, that tough-love moment taught him that greatness doesn’t come from comfort.

“A coach isn’t your friend,” he said. “Friends may accept you the way you are, but a coach sees your potential and refuses to let you stay average.”

Hard Work Isn’t Enough Without God

Quoting Proverbs 22:29, Pastor Adeboye emphasised the importance of diligence: “Seest thou a man diligent in his business? He shall stand before kings.” However, he was quick to add that hard work alone is not enough.

Referencing Ecclesiastes 9:11 and Romans 9:15, he explained that success in life is not always about being the smartest or fastest — it ultimately depends on God’s mercy and favour.

 “The person who wins in life isn’t always the brightest. Whether you rise or fall depends on God. Victory is 100% determined by His will,” he said.

Boxing Lessons for Life

Reflecting on his boxing days, Pastor Adeboye credited the discipline, endurance, and mental strength he developed during that period with helping him navigate decades of ministry and leadership challenges. He encouraged believers to embrace similar values in their own lives.

“If you do what the average person does, you’ll remain average,” he warned. “But if you go the extra mile and let God lead you, your victory is guaranteed.”

A Call to Join the Winning Team

The ongoing August Thanksgiving Service, held from August 4 to 10 at Redemption City, continues to draw multitudes of worshippers both physically and online, all seeking divine direction and assurance that with God, they belong to “The Winning Team.”

Pastor Adeboye’s message serves as a timely reminder: in a world obsessed with shortcuts, lasting success still comes from God.