The Elijah of this generation, as he is being referred to by many of his members, is someone who will never be distracted from the divine assignment God has graciously assigned to him. There were those from the academic community who could not fathom why such a brilliant personality with global pedigree would put all of that aside and opt for the work of a shepherd in the vineyard. They ordinarily would suggest that such a proven scientist shouldn’t be anywhere other than the academic environment where he is more likely to motivate students for academic success or accomplishment in their different fields of study. While the inferences highlighted may sound plausible to garner support from like minds, it would be proper to assert that Dr Olukoya equally supports quality educational development through his direct involvement in sponsorship and instituting the Dr D. K. Olukoya Academic Awards for Excellence where graduates with first-class degrees are rewarded in cash and kind. But beyond all these, the servant of God sees a broader framework where every soul is expected to put God first in all their endeavours and not on mundane or worldly things that will not be honoured in heaven.

The General Overseer’s commitment to God and the kingdom of His dear Son, Jesus Christ, remains largely incontestable. His exemplary academic feat as primus inter pares in Microbiology, at the University of Lagos and the prestigious University of Reading UK, where he recorded distinction in his PhD in Molecular Genetics, was not enough to deter him from responding to the call of God upon his life. He humbly declined offers from the organisations that offered to employ him back in London. Rather, he came back to Nigeria and worked briefly with the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) from where he went to set up the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries. What is particularly striking about his ministerial journey is the ease with which he commits himself to the instructions of God. As a respected prophet of the Most High God, the G.O does not engage in what heaven does not approve of. Imagine the exponential growth of the church globally.

Another important area of mention is the MFM Women Foundation, a unifying body for all the women folks in the ministry. As president of the body worldwide, it is the responsibility of Dr (Mrs) ‘Shade Olukoya, the amiable wife of the General Overseer, to manage the affairs of the community of women in the church for both spiritual and professional accomplishment. With the injection of such huge support, the leadership stream combines effectively well for the overall growth and development of the ministry. The spiritual diets of the church, Power Must Change Hands, Manna Water, Weekend Deliverance, among others, are programmes largely attended by people from many denominations. There are even people who attend from outside the country. These flagship programmes are indeed crowd pullers any day. Listening to the great testimonies often shared at any of these prayer meetings, mostly ignites the faith in others to look up to the God on this mountain for their testimonies.

With the great strides that the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries have recorded in its growth and development over the years, most persons would have expected some carnival celebrations that are probably out of this world. But those close to the Elijah of this generation would let you know first-hand that the GO will not give in to beating his chest over some incredible achievements. His submission and reverence to God are totally and deeply communicated. The anniversary celebration and global convention at the sprawling praying ground of the Prayer City were abuzz with excitement as thousands of worshippers and well-wishers, came to celebrate this major milestone. The three-day colorful extravaganza was a testament to the church’s enduring legacy and commitment to spreading the word of God. The event was a masterclass in organization, with a plethora of activities that catered to all ages. The children and teenagers were treated like the ‘kings and queens’ that they are at the Mountain Top University Chapel. The electrifying performances, buoyed up by dancing and chanting to the glory of God, were exercised by the Praise and Worship Teams from different branches of the ministry globally.

Added to this was the Ministerial Awards ceremony put together by the ministry to honor distinguished pastors and ministers who have dedicated their lives to the service of the ministry. Among the long list of those so honored were the Assistant General Overseers, Pastors Kehinde Adegbolahan, Gbesan Adebambo, Timothy Akano, Biodun Aladejola, Lawrence Olasheinde, Felix Adedeji Peters and Femi Ajila.

The anniversary celebration and global convention was without any iota of doubt an event that many would find very difficult to forget in a long time. What with the pulsating drama presentation that captivated the audience and children reciting long verses of scriptures with remarkable precision and grit. The desire among other children to replicate the same was just palpable. With the sea of human heads at the anniversary celebration, the ministry made adequate provisions for crowd control by complementing the services of the Ushering Unit with the presence of five roving ambulance vans at the expansive prayer ground.

The 35th-anniversary celebration of the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries was a resounding success, one that will be etched in the memories of attendees for years to come. As the church looks to the future, it is clear that its legacy of faith, service and community will continue to inspire generations to come.