Rev. Chris Oarhe Hosts Lagos Business School Professors, Others at Public Lecture on the Role of the Church in Nation Building

The Founder and Senior Pastor of Hilltop International Christian Centre, Rev. Dr. Chris Oarhe, celebrated his 60th birthday with a thought-provoking public lecture focused on national development and the pivotal role of faith institutions in shaping society.

The lecture, themed “The Role of the Church in Nation Building,” was held on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at J’s Signature Hotel, bringing together distinguished voices from academia, governance, diplomacy, business, and the church.

Key speakers included renowned political economist Prof. Pat Utomi, respected economist Prof. Osita Ogbu, former Nigerian Ambassador Amb. Joe Keshi, management scholar Prof. Edwinah Amah, international development expert Prof. Franklin Nnaemeka Ngwu, distinguished academic Prof. Francis Egbokhare, and former Minister of Information Mr. Frank Nweke Jr.

Other notable attendees included Pastor George Izunwa, Senior Pastor of Gateway International Church; maritime industry leader Capt. Greg Ogbeifun, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Starzs Group of Companies ; Pastor Chris Ugoh, Founder and Senior Pastor of Kings Assembly; Bishop Idah Peterside of Christ Ambassadors Church; and Bishop Odunayo of Victory Chapel Churches Worldwide.

Speakers shared insights on leadership, governance, and the ways in which the Church can foster a value-driven society capable of sustaining national development. Discussions highlighted integrity, responsible leadership, and active citizen participation as key elements of nation building.

During the event, Rev. Chris Oarhe urged young Nigerians to heed the counsel and wisdom of elders, while challenging older generations to intentionally mentor and guide the youth in cultivating responsible, future-ready leaders.

Participants described the gathering as a meeting of minds deeply committed to the country’s development. One attendee remarked: “This was a meeting with nation builders and people of high intellectual capacity, discussing the nation’s future.”

Speaking further, Rev. Chris Oarhe announced his intention to make the lecture an annual event, providing a sustained platform for dialogue on leadership, faith, and national development.

Beyond his pastoral duties, Rev. Chris Oarhe leads the Hilltop Leadership Institute , collaborating with leadership experts to equip individuals for impactful leadership and meaningful contributions to nation building.

The 60th birthday lecture was not only a milestone celebration but also a call to collective responsibility, urging all generations to ensure that faith, leadership, and service work together for the common good.