Felix Mbata, Lagos state
In this feature with Christian Events Watch Magazine, Chaplain (Pastor) Prophet Professor Godwin E. Akpan opens up about his calling, the birth of Great Guidance Church inside Olosan Police Barracks, and his pivotal role in Lagos State Chaplaincy. The conversation covers his ministry journey, the spiritual support he offers, his relationship with police officers, and the challenges he faces—all wrapped in a candid, faith‑filled narrative.
Sir, for the benefit of our readers, can you introduce yourself to Christian Events Watch Magazine?
I am Chaplain (Pastor) Prophet Professor Godwin E. Akpan, the President/General Overseer of Great Guidance Church Worldwide, located inside the Olosan Police Barracks, off Post Office Road, Mushin, Lagos. By the special grace of God, I am both a Prophet of God and a Chaplain, called to minister healing, hope, and divine direction to men and women — especially those serving in the Nigeria Police Force and the surrounding community. My life’s message can be summed up in Psalm 32:8: “I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.” That scripture birthed the name Great Guidance, representing the divine mandate to guide people by the Spirit of God into His perfect will.
Can you share your journey into ministry and how you became involved in Lagos State Chaplaincy?
My journey into ministry began many years ago 3rd November 1999 with a deep hunger to know God beyond religion. Through encounters with the Holy Spirit, the Lord called me into the prophetic and teaching ministry. Over time, that calling expanded into the chaplaincy — a divine assignment to bring more light into structured institutions like the police. When I joined the chaplain Fellowship Of Nigeria Ubom Command Sector Badagry under the supervision of Arch Bishop Laurence Afilaka The Grand Commander and Visioner of Champlain Fellowship of Nigeria (CFN) where I became Asst. Grand Commander before joining the Police Protestant Chaplain (Lord of Lords Chapel) Lagos State Command and became a police Pastor. When I encountered the Lagos State Chaplaincy, I saw it as a powerful platform to express God’s love in a disciplined and uniformed environment. The Lord said to me clearly, “Go where others fear to go; take My Word to those who bear the sword of the nation.” That is how I became actively involved, ministering both within and outside the police barracks.
What kind of spiritual guidance and support do you offer to individuals and the community at your current location?
At Great Guidance Church Worldwide, our ministry focuses on spiritual restoration, counseling, deliverance, and character building. We run regular prayer meetings, chaplain fellowship sessions, and counseling for officers, their families, and civilians around Mushin. We also extend help to widows, youths, and the less privileged — offering both spiritual and humanitarian support. Our goal is to embody James 2:17, which reminds us that “faith without works is dead.” We believe that preaching the gospel is not only about words but also about tangible acts of love that point people to Christ.
As a chaplain and prophet in Olosan Police Barracks, close to the station, what is your relationship with the police officers at the station? Do you pray for them, and do they accept you?
By the grace of God, I have a very cordial relationship with the officers at Olosan Police Station. They see me not just as a preacher but as a father figure and intercessor. I regularly visit to pray with them before patrols, during emergencies, or whenever there’s a need for divine intervention. Many officers have come to testify that prayer has preserved their lives and guided their decisions. It’s written in 1 Timothy 2:1‑2 that we should “pray for kings and for all that are in authority, that we may live a quiet and peaceable life.” I see the police officers as people in authority who need divine covering to function effectively. Their acceptance of me and the church is a testimony that God is at work in Olosan Barracks.
How do you rate godliness among Nigerian Police Officers, and what is your advice to society?
Godliness within the Force is growing, but there is still room for improvement. Many officers desire to live upright lives, but the pressures of the job and the moral challenges in society can be overwhelming. That’s why the Chaplaincy is essential — to nurture spiritual strength and moral conviction. To the society, I say this: let’s pray for our police, and all the arm forces in Nigeria not just to criticize them. They are human beings with emotions, families, and spiritual needs. When we uphold them in prayer, God will uphold the nation. As 2 Chronicles 7:14 reminds us, “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray… I will heal their land.” A praying society produces righteous officers.
What are some of the challenges you face in your ministry, and how have you overcome them?
One of the greatest challenges has been limited resources and societal misconceptions about chaplaincy work. Many do not yet understand that chaplaincy is not about religion but about service, love, and moral restoration. However, through faith, perseverance, and divine wisdom, we have seen God provide supernaturally. Whenever challenges arise, I stand on Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Every obstacle has turned into a testimony. Today, I can boldly say that what God calls, He empowers. The growth and acceptance of our ministry within the barracks is a testament to His grace.
CSP Ezekiel Ugbotor is the spiritual head of Protestant Chaplains in Lagos Police Command. With your long‑standing relationship, how do you rate his performance and what is your advice?
CSP Ezekiel Ugbotor is a man of integrity, vision, and spiritual discipline. I have had the privilege of working closely with him, and I can testify that he is truly a servant‑leader who carries the heart of Christ for the chaplaincy. His leadership has brought structure, accountability, and spiritual revival among Protestant chaplains in the Lagos Command. My advice is that he continues to uphold Ephesians 6:10, “Be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.” The harvest is great, and I believe God will continue to enlarge his territory and strengthen his hands for greater exploits.
Final Word from Prophet Professor Godwin E. Akpan
I believe that the Church and the uniformed services must work hand in hand to raise a morally upright nation. The Gospel of Christ is not limited to the four walls of a church — it extends to the barracks, the streets, and every sector of our society. As we continue to serve faithfully, I declare that revival, righteousness, and restoration will flow across our land. “Righteousness exalts a nation” (Proverbs 14:34), and through godly leadership and prophetic guidance, Nigeria will rise again in glory.
Conclusion:
Chaplain (Pastor) Prophet Professor Godwin E. Akpan’s interview paints a vivid picture of a ministry that bridges faith and law enforcement, offering hope, healing, and practical support to those who serve the nation. His unwavering commitment to guiding officers and the community underscores the transformative power of gospel‑driven chaplaincy. As Nigeria navigates its challenges, voices like his remind us that spiritual guidance and righteous leadership are indispensable pillars for lasting peace and revival.