By Rachael Oke
The Benin Republic Conference commenced on a powerful note Wednesday November 12, 2025, with a strong emphasis on Christ’s leadership model as the guiding focus for ministers.
The program opened with a formal declaration of the conference by the President of Christ Apostolic Church, Nigeria and Overseas, Pastor Samuel Olusegun Oladele, who was ably represented by the Regional Superintendent of Essien Region, Pastor I. O. Eyebiokin.
Essien Region Secretary and Superintendent, Isabo DCC, Pastor D. O. Okusanya, during the first lecture, stressed the importance of ministers embracing the leadership style of Jesus Christ.
Speaking on the topic, "Jesus' Leadership Style: a Model for the Modern Church Leaders," Pastor Okusanya delved into Christ's servant-leadership, drawing attention to His humility, integrity, compassion, and sense of stewardship—qualities modern leaders must imbibe.
Highlighting Jesus' character, he stated: "He is one leader who guides, protects, develops the character and activities of his followers and also seeks to provide continual training and direction. He knows the way because He is the way, talks the way, goes the way and shows the way."
"To Jesus, leadership is an awesome responsibility, not about gain, acquisition or position," he added.
Drawing from Matthew 11:29, Pastor Okusanya urged ministers to emulate Christ’s life of humility, love, sacrifice, tolerance, restoration, and forgiveness.
"Be a role model leader for Christ and His church," he noted.
Similarly in the second lecture titled “Reaching and Leading: Effective Strategies for Church Growth,” District Superintendent, CAC Solution District Araromi Zone, Pastor John Ademuwagun, expanded on Jesus’ approach to ministry, emphasizing vision casting, personal discipleship, and sending out, as key principles to adopt for effective church growth.
The conference and convention, which ended in the early hours of today, brings together ministers, ministers' wives, church workers, and members of Christ Apostolic Church in the Benin Republic.