President John Mahama has commended Victory Bible Church International for four decades of steadfast faith, visionary leadership, and transformative impact on Ghana and beyond.

Delivering the President’s message on his behalf, Elvis Afriyie-Ankrah, Presidential Envoy for Interfaith and Ecumenical Relations, described the church’s 40-year journey as “a testimony of divine favour, steadfast leadership, and an unrelenting commitment to the Great Commission.”

He recalled that “Forty years ago, in a modest fellowship at Kokomlemle, the seed of this great ministry was planted. From that humble beginning on 2nd June 1985, Victory Bible Church International has grown into a vibrant global family with over 250 branches across four continents — Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas.”

Under the inspired leadership of its founder and presiding bishop, Most Rev Nii Nabi Apiakai Tackie-Yarboi, the church has faithfully lived out its calling to “raise the foundations of many generations.” This year’s anniversary theme, drawn from Isaiah 58:12, was described by the President as a fitting reflection of the church’s mission and enduring legacy.

President Mahama, through his envoy, lauded the church’s holistic approach to ministry, which combines evangelism, education, community outreach, and social development. He praised the church’s numerous initiatives — including health campaigns, youth empowerment programmes, music and arts ministries, and the renowned Wonderful Jesus Conference — describing Victory Bible Church International as “a light on a hill — a church not hidden, but radiating God’s glory across nations.”

The President further acknowledged the church’s role in nation-building, noting that it has become “a model of excellence and discipline, proving that Ghana can produce churches and leaders who stand shoulder to shoulder with the best across the world.”

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working closely with faith-based organisations in advancing the Reset Agenda and the 24-Hour Economy, emphasising that such national initiatives must rest on strong moral and ethical foundations.

“Without faith, there can be no moral foundation; without integrity, there can be no trust; and without trust, there can be no sustainable development,” the President stated.

“As you celebrate 40 years of grace and growth, may this milestone propel you to even greater heights,” the message concluded. “May the next decade see Victory Bible Church International expand its influence in governance, technology, education, and entrepreneurship — raising a new generation of Ghanaians who will transform every sector of society through faith and innovation.”

Also addressing the congregation, the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, commended Bishop Tackie-Yarboi and the entire church leadership for their exceptional dedication and transformative impact over the years.

He remarked that there is “something truly unique and inspiring about the church — particularly its ability to blend spiritual purpose with social responsibility and innovation.”

Mr Debrah expressed optimism that the 40th Anniversary celebration would usher in a new era of hope and opportunity for Ghana, saying that the spirit of the event would inspire renewal and national progress. He especially praised Bishop Tackie-Yarboi for his forward-thinking focus on reorienting the mindset of the younger generation towards entrepreneurship, innovation, and self-reliance — a vision he described as “perfectly aligned with Ghana’s drive for sustainable development.”

Ahmed Ibrahim, Member of Parliament for the Banda Constituency and Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, together with his Deputy, Rita Naa Odoley Sowah, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for the La Dade-Kotopon Constituency, joined the congregation of Victory Bible Church International for their thanksgiving service.

The grand celebration, held at the Independence Square in Accra, attracted a large and jubilant gathering of worshippers, dignitaries, and international guests, who joined in thanksgiving for the church’s extraordinary journey of faith, growth, and excellence.

As Victory Bible Church International marks its 40th anniversary, it continues to stand as a beacon of transformation, demonstrating how faith, leadership, and purpose can work together to shape a stronger and more prosperous Ghana.

Story by: Emmanuel Austin Baah