President John Dramani Mahama has lauded Victory Bible Church International for its four decades of steadfast faith, visionary leadership, and transformative service to Ghana and the global Christian community.

Delivering a message on behalf of the President, the Presidential Envoy for Interfaith and Ecumenical Relations, Elvis Afriyie-Ankrah, 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 the ministry began as a modest fellowship at Kokomlemle in Accra on 2 June 1985, under the leadership of The Most Reverend Nii Nabi Apiakai Tackie-Yarboi. From those humble beginnings, the church has grown into a vibrant global institution with over 250 branches across Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

Mr Afriyie-Ankrah said the anniversary theme, “Raise the Foundations of Many Generations,” drawn from Isaiah 58:12, aptly reflected the church’s long-standing mission of nurturing faith, leadership, and service.

In his message, President Mahama commended Victory Bible Church for combining evangelism with social impact through education, health campaigns, youth empowerment, and arts and music ministries. He praised the church’s annual Wonderful Jesus Conference, describing it as a global platform that has inspired thousands of Christians and strengthened the faith of believers.

“Victory Bible Church International has become a light on a hill — a church not hidden, but radiating God’s glory across nations,” the President’s message read.

President Mahama also acknowledged the church’s contribution to nation-building, saying it had 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 government’s commitment to deeper collaboration with faith-based organisations, noting that such partnerships are crucial for achieving his administration’s Reset Agenda and 24-Hour Economy initiative.

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

He congratulated the church for 40 years of “grace and growth” and urged it to continue leading in areas such as technology, education, entrepreneurship, and governance. “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,” he said.

Also addressing the congregation, the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, commended Bishop Tackie-Yarboi and the church’s leadership for their vision and consistency in blending spiritual purpose with social responsibility.

“There is something truly unique and inspiring about this church — particularly its ability to blend spiritual purpose with social responsibility and innovation,” he said.

Mr Debrah expressed confidence that the 40th anniversary would inspire a renewed sense of hope and unity among Ghanaians, while fostering innovation and self-reliance among the youth. He praised Bishop Tackie-Yarboi for championing entrepreneurship and mindset transformation, which he described as “perfectly aligned with Ghana’s drive for sustainable development.”

The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, and his Deputy, Rita Naa Odoley Sowah, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for La Dade-Kotopon, joined the congregation for the thanksgiving service.

The grand celebration, held at Independence Square in Accra, drew a large crowd of worshippers, dignitaries, and international guests who gathered to give thanks for what many described as an extraordinary journey of faith, growth, and impact.