The Christian Women Fellowship International, Lagos Bishopric of the Church of God Mission International, has commenced its 2026 women’s convention aimed at combining spiritual development with entrepreneurship and leadership training as Nigerian women navigate evolving economic and social pressures.
The four-day convention, themed “Women of Impact,” is scheduled from March 26, to March 29, 2026, at The King’s Pavilion, 10 Oludegun Avenue, Mafoluku, Oshodi, Lagos, bringing together more than 400 participants from within and outside the state.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of the event, leaders of the fellowship said this year’s gathering would blend spiritual development with practical sessions focused on economic empowerment, business sustainability, and personal development for women across generations.
The organisers noted that the convention aligns with the global vision of the Church of God Mission International’s 2026 theme, “Focus on Christ to Make Great Impact,” encouraging women to translate faith into measurable contributions within their families, businesses, and communities.
President of CWFI, Lagos Bishopric, Rev. Mrs Helen Fianu, said the fellowship remains committed to promoting the dignity of womanhood through financial enlightenment, leadership development, and skill acquisition initiatives.
According to her, the convention is designed not only as a religious gathering but also as a platform for social and economic transformation.
“We want women to understand their calling and develop their God-given potential. Beyond church activities, this convention is about impacting homes, communities, and society at large through knowledge, empowerment, and service,” she said.
Fianu added that the fellowship’s programmes seek to raise women who will contribute meaningfully to national development while mentoring younger generations.
“Our goal is not just about ourselves. We want to build a generation that will continue to make an impact for families, children, and the wider society,” she said.
Organisers explained that the convention would feature a mix of spiritual teachings and professional sessions addressing contemporary issues affecting women, including taxation, health, entrepreneurship, and digital relevance.
Among the keynote speakers is the Director of Financial Services at the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, Dr Odunayo Ani, who is expected to speak on the implications of Nigeria’s new tax laws and how they affect working women and women-owned businesses.
Leaders at the press briefing stressed the importance of tax awareness, noting that many women entrepreneurs operate businesses without adequate understanding of regulatory obligations.
They said the session would help participants understand compliance requirements and prepare for evolving fiscal policies affecting businesses nationwide.
Health education will also form a key part of the programme, with seasoned gynaecologist Osadolor scheduled to deliver a session on menopause management and women’s health.
In line with CWFI’s focus on intergenerational mentorship, special sessions have been designed for younger participants. These include a personal development session by Mrs Lade Owolabi, pastor, brand specialist, and recipient of the YouTube Black Voices Fund Grant, who will speak on discovering purpose and unlocking individual potential.
Participants will also engage in an interactive session led by Rev. Mrs Maureen Okoro-Sokoh, Group Managing Director of Estymol Group and the convention chair, focusing on leadership experience and personal growth.
Speakers at the press conference highlighted the fellowship’s broader social mission, emphasising outreach initiatives, mentorship programmes, and support for widows and vulnerable groups as part of its community impact efforts.
They noted that previous conventions had provided women with tools and resources to start or expand small businesses, adding that follow-up assessments showed many beneficiaries had improved their livelihoods and profitability.
“Each time we meet, we review what was done previously and improve on it,” one of the leaders said, citing testimonies from women who have successfully applied skills gained from earlier programmes to grow their enterprises.
Founded in 1974 by Archbishop Margaret Benson-Idahosa, CWFI operates as a faith-based non-governmental organisation with headquarters in Benin City and a presence across Nigeria and several countries in Africa, Europe, Asia, and North America. The organisation focuses on empowering women through seminars, conferences, and capacity-building initiatives.
Organisers encouraged women and members of the public to participate actively in the convention, describing it as an opportunity for learning, networking, and collective growth.
“We encourage everyone to be open to new ideas and meaningful discussions that will elevate our collective mission,” Fianu said. “We are committed to becoming women of impact not only through words but also through actions that reflect the love of Christ wherever we find ourselves.”
