The Revival Promotion Partners (RPP), an interdenominational Christian group dedicated to supporting revival activities and the ministry of Pastor Simeon Afolabi, Serving Overseer of First Love Assembly, concluded its activities for the year with a retreat and picnic at the famous Olumo Rock, Abeokuta yesterday.
This gathering was a fitting finale to a year of impactful events, including quarterly Restoration Seminars and Ministers Conferences held across Nigerian cities to inspire spiritual revival.
Participants from Benin City, Ilorin, Osogbo, and Lagos embarked on a journey by rail from Lagos to Abeokuta for the retreat on Friday ahead of the sightseeing at the Olumo Rock on Saturday morning.
At the Olumo Rock, the team enjoyed sightseeing and bonding, capping off the year with moments of reflection and celebration.
The tour guide assigned to the team, Oluremi conducted members through different departments of the rock relaying the history of the site and it’s importance to the Ẹgba people.
Later, the team reassembled at their hotel base, where Pastor Simeon Afolabi who joined virtually delivered an inspiring message centered on revival, purpose, and preparation for the new year.
Gratitude for a Year of Sacrifices
In his address, Afolabi likened the contributions of RPP members to those described in Romans 16, where the Apostle Paul acknowledged his ministry partners’ sacrifices. “Whatever you describe to be Paul in ministry, it is traceable to the grace of God and the generous participation of his partners,” he said.
He expressed deep gratitude to the group, commending their willingness to pray, give financially, travel, and organize events tirelessly.
“Whatever got done this year, I say thank you very much,” Afolabi said. Reflecting on a divine assurance he received during a retreat in England, he said, “The Lord said to me, ‘None of your labour has gone unnoticed, and none will go unrewarded.’ I trust God for a reward for every one of us as we transition into the new year.”
Purpose: Bedrock of Progress
Afolabi’s message transitioned to the theme of purpose, emphasising its critical role in achieving success and spiritual growth. Drawing from Psalm 17:3, 1 Kings 5:5, and Daniel 1:8, he highlighted biblical examples of individuals who proposed in their hearts to live rightly and fulfill God’s plans.
“Nothing gets accomplished unless men first propose it,” he declared, highlighting that determination and alignment with God’s will are foundational.
He urged participants to enter the new year with a clear purpose, saying, “No purpose, no progress. Your purpose should be in alignment with God’s plan.”
Revival: The Only Hope for a Decaying World
As his message progressed, Afolabi painted a sobering picture of the current state of Christianity, citing England as a former stronghold of the faith now reduced to 11% Christian adherence.
He lamented the moral decline of society, where sin is becoming more socially acceptable, and called for urgent action.
“Only revival can save the world,” Afolabi asserted, emphasising the need for an outpouring of God’s Spirit to spark conviction, conversion, and restoration. “1,000 candles can get their light from one candle that is lit,” he said, encouraging participants to be agents of revival by embodying zeal and devotion to God.
A Call to Seriousness
Afolabi concluded his address with a charge to the RPP members to embrace their calling with renewed seriousness. “Let us double our efforts in seeking the Lord for awakening—first in our own lives, so we can become agents of revival in the world,” he said.

The Serving Overseer however expressed hope for a great outpouring of God’s Spirit in the coming years and prayed for the group’s continued impact.
The retreat was a testament to the dedication and unity of the Revival Promotion Partners, setting the stage for another year of meaningful ministry under the guidance of Pastor Afolabi, leaders of RPP and the leadership of the Holy Spirit.
Report by Dayo Emmanuel