“I love politics, but God brought me into the church.”
These powerful words from Pastor Femi Emmanuel reflect a journey defined by divine direction, national service, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of humanity. Once a politician, now a revered preacher, Pastor Femi Emmanuel is the Presiding Pastor of Livingspring Chapel International, with its national headquarters in Ibadan and international headquarters in Ikeja, Lagos.
Speaking at a press conference held at the church headquarters in Ibadan, Pastor Emmanuel emphasized that governance is the highest platform for changing lives and shaping destinies. “In this church, we don’t just preach—we give palliatives, build health centers,sponsor scholarship, and support the community,” he said, underlining the role of the church in nation-building.
He acknowledged the profound impact of political leadership on his own life. “If not for what Chief Obafemi Awolowo did, I may not have gone to school. Next to God is political power,” he declared.
To him, both ministry and governance are divine callings. “What I am doing now is a calling, and governance too is a calling. The three oldest institutions established by God are the home, the church, and governance. When the righteous rule, the people rejoice; but when the wicked rule, the people mourn,” he noted.
Pastor Emmanuel lamented the absence of good Nigerians at the table where decisions affecting national leadership are made. “Good Nigerians are not where the decisions are made. That’s why the quality of leadership remains low,” he said.
Reflecting on his time in politics, he said, “My experience in politics has opened my eyes to realities most pastors never see. I am happy I obeyed God’s call to step into public service.”
Born into a humble background, Pastor Femi Emmanuel had an encounter with Christ in 1972, igniting a fire that has since fueled his ministry. A trained engineer and one-time Deputy Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, he left a thriving political career to fully embrace ministry work.
He was one of the four pioneer members of the Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship International in the western region of Nigeria in 1985 and gained recognition in the 1980s as a prolific interpreter for renowned ministers of the gospel.
Today, Pastor Emmanuel is one of Nigeria’s most respected and sought-after gospel ministers. His popular radio programme, Turning Point, airs across Nigeria and beyond. The accompanying daily devotional, Turning Point Today, enjoys massive readership among people of all ages.
He is married to Dupe Femi-Emmanuel, and their union is blessed with wonderful children. A dynamic preacher, motivational speaker, and prophetic voice to many, Pastor Femi Emmanuel continues to inspire generations by blending spiritual insight with practical wisdom.
