Empower the Vulnerable: Ex-First Lady Charges Christian Women

Empower the Vulnerable: Ex-First Lady Charges Christian Women

​LAGOS — Former First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, Dr. Martha Udom-Emmanuel, has called on Christian women and female ministers to champion social impact by actively reaching out to vulnerable citizens and young Nigerians requiring guidance, love, and direction.

​She made this passionate appeal while addressing attendees at the 12th edition of the Female Ministers Conference. Organised by the Victory Life Bible Church International (VLBCI), the high-profile gathering took place at the Sheraton Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos.

​Extending Ministry Beyond Church Walls

​Speaking on the theme of contemporary Christian responsibilities, Dr. Udom-Emmanuel emphasized that the influence of female spiritual leaders should stretch far beyond regular Sunday services or physical church premises. She noted that true ministry must permeate workplaces, corporate organizations, businesses, and local communities.

​”Christians must be conscious of their identity as representatives of God wherever they find themselves, particularly in environments populated by people with different backgrounds and religious beliefs,” she stated.

​The former First Lady cautioned against self-righteous or judgmental attitudes toward individuals facing difficult life circumstances or alternative lifestyles. Instead, she urged ministers to approach vulnerable groups—including those struggling with societal vices—with empathy, patience, and genuine compassion rather than immediate condemnation.

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​Embracing Professional Excellence

​Addressing the intersection of faith and enterprise, Dr. Udom-Emmanuel underscored the necessity of diligence and high standards. She warned against complacency, asserting that competence is a vital tool for effective witness in the modern marketplace.

​“One thing that will help you in your marketplace 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 admonished.

​Navigating Pressures and Finding Identity

​The conference also featured extensive discourse on the unique challenges confronting women in leadership and ministry homes.

• ​Pastor Toyin Poju-Oyemade of The Covenant Nation delivered an insightful session titled “The Queen and the Palace.” She encouraged women not to let temporary hardships dictate their self-worth, drawing historical parallels from biblical figures like Esther, Ruth, Daniel, and Joseph who maintained integrity amidst severe trials.
• ​Addressing the emotional toll of leadership, Pastor Poju-Oyemade highlighted the hidden burdens carried by many pastors’ wives, who are frequently consumed by the needs of congregations while often lacking adequate support systems in their immediate domestic spheres.
• ​Pastor Rose Yusuf of the Household of Love Churches also contributed valuable perspectives on balancing domestic duties with ministerial expectations.

​Honouring a Lasting Legacy

​In his remarks, the Founder and General Overseer of Victory Life Bible Church International, Apostle Lawrence Achudume, paid an emotional tribute to his late wife, Reverend Fola Achudume. He recalled her profound dedication to empowering women and safeguarding the welfare of children.

​Apostle Achudume expressed strong optimism that the foundational vision behind the Female Ministers Conference and other humanitarian initiatives established by the late cleric will continue to flourish and impact generations to come.

​The event wrapped up with an engaging panel discussion focusing on collaborative approaches to community development, alongside interactive sessions anchored on scriptural principles.