Toba Owojaiye reporting
Nairobi, Kenya
In a powerful affirmation of Nigeria’s spiritual leadership across the continent, Archbishop John Praise Daniel, one of Nigeria’s most respected evangelical voices and Immediate Past National Deputy President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), has been elected President of the West Africa Region of the Association of Evangelicals in Africa (AEA).
The announcement was made during the 13th General Assembly of the AEA, held from May 21st to 24th, 2025, in Nairobi, Kenya, the continental headquarters of the organization. The Assembly drew over 300 leaders from 51 African countries, convened under the theme “Living the Kingdom Agenda in Turbulent Times.”
At the apex of the new leadership structure, Bishop Dr. Jean Libon Li Likeng from Cameroon was elected President of the Association of Evangelicals in Africa (AEA). He brings with him a wealth of theological depth and a heart for revival across French- and English-speaking Africa.
In a major strategic move, Archbishop Engineer Elias Taban Parangi of South Sudan was elected as Chairman of the AEA Governing Council, the highest oversight body within the organization. Speaking shortly after a high-level meeting with Kenyan President William Ruto, Archbishop Parangi declared:
“As newly elected Chairman of the Governing Council of the Association of Evangelicals in Africa, and after meeting President William Ruto yesterday, I am trusting God for reconciliation and healing in our country, South Sudan. Restorative justice will succeed in South Sudan.”
Yet, amid these continental shifts, Archbishop John Praise’s election stands out as a strategic moment for West Africa and Nigeria’s growing voice in shaping Africa’s evangelical future. A seasoned preacher, prophetic intercessor, and apostolic father, Archbishop Praise is the Presiding Archbishop of Dominion Chapel International Churches and has for decades played a frontline role in Christian advocacy and leadership mentoring.
His rise to this regional presidency followed a keenly contested election, reflecting his broad acceptability and credibility across denominational lines.
“Leadership is a divine responsibility. West Africa is entering a new season of spiritual influence, unity, and transformation. I am humbled by this call to serve and believe the Church must now rise as a voice of hope and moral clarity,” he shared after his confirmation.
With his Election Archbishop Dr JohnPraise Daniel also becomes a member of the Board of the Governing Council of AEA.
Observers see this new AEA leadership blend as a generational shift marked by experience, spiritual authority, and continental relevance. With Nigeria’s Archbishop John Praise now steering the West African region, expectations are high for greater revival, institutional reform, and regional cohesion in the years ahead.