The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) has declared a 40-day period of prayer and fasting to seek divine intervention against the economic hardship affecting the country.

Making the declaration while briefing journalists in Abuja on Thursday, the PFN national president, Francis Wale Oke, said the exercise is aimed at seeking relief and prosperity from God to overcome the challenges.

According to Mr Oke, the prayer and fasting, which begins on January 6, 2025, will culminate in the Christian body’s 18th Biennial Conference, scheduled from February 10 to 14 in Abuja.

He added that during the conference, themed “The Rebirth of a Great Nation: Nigeria is Great,” a national prayer gathering will also be held on February 14.

Mr Oke said, “This period of prayer and fasting is a key aspect of our biennial conference. We believe God will answer our prayers. Nigeria’s challenges are our collective responsibility, not just that of the leaders, but also of the citizens. Together, through cooperation and commitment, we can bring Nigeria out of hardship. Our part is to pray, educate, and support efforts at every level.”

“In the Bible, when judgment was pronounced on Nineveh, the king and the people cried out for mercy, and God heard their prayers. We believe that the same God who delivered Nineveh is alive today and will hear our cry.”

The cleric, who likened the country’s present situation to the pains experienced by a mother in labour, said the body believes “that a new Nigeria will emerge.”

He said Pentecostal churches, Christians, and Nigerians are currently being mobilised to participate in the exercise to revive the nation.