By Brenda Izu

The Church of God Mission International is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its historic Miracle Centre — a landmark of Pentecostal faith and heritage in Nigeria.

Addressing journalists during a press conference at the Historic Miracle Centre in Benin City, the Presiding Bishop, Bishop Wale Ajayi, described the building as a global symbol of God’s power and an enduring legacy of the Pentecostal movement.

He recalled that the Historic Miracle Centre was dedicated on November 9, 1975, by Freda Lindsay from the United States of America, and was built and commissioned by the late Archbishop Benson Idahosa, widely regarded as the father of Pentecostalism in Africa.

Bishop Ajayi emphasized that the golden jubilee celebration is significant because of what the church represents to the body of Christ, noting that miracles, global recognition, and the establishment of schools, hospitals, and Bible institutions — including the School of Wisdom — all began from the centre.

The week-long anniversary conference will run from the 10th to the 16th of November and will feature the commissioning of a community health centre, alongside other commemorative activities.

Meanwhile,  Bishop Wale Ajayi called on Christian political leaders to live Christ-like lives and use their positions to promote righteousness and national development.

The Bishop noted that if more political leaders follow the teachings of Christ, Nigeria will become a greater nation — built on justice, compassion, and service to humanity.

He further linked the Historic Miracle Centre’s golden jubilee to Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary, expressing hope that the light of God will continue to shine across the nation and inspire believers to disciple others and influence society positively.

Other ministers present at the press conference include Reverend Osahon Okunbo, Reverend Henry Ewere, Reverend Charles Uwadia, and Reverend Collins Edokpolor, as the church continues to champion evangelism, education, and humanitarian service across the globe.

The anniversary conference will commemorate the legacies of Archbishop Benson Idahosa, with ministers such as Archbishop Margaret Idahosa, Bishop David Oyedepo, and other renowned church leaders expected to participate.