The Watchmen Catholic Charismatic Renewal Movement in the Lagos Island District recently hosted the 2025 edition of the Prosperity Torch Business Summit at the church auditorium in Jakande, Lekki State.
Themed “You Are What You Know,” this year's summit brought together a diverse audience of entrepreneurs, industry professionals, students, small traders, professionals, and young innovators for a day dedicated to enterprise development, talent development, and spiritual enrichment.
The event offered a comprehensive experience combining panel discussions, keynotes, empowerment grants, mentorship opportunities, and prophetic sessions, creating a platform for attendees to explore the intersection of business intelligence and purpose.
Gain business insights through panels and keynotes
The summit began with a panel discussion on the theme of “Startup Fundamentals and Growth Strategies.”
Panelists included Helen Adinnu (Founder of El-Anuts Bakery), Anthony Anenechukwu (CEO of Parktel Int' l Limited) and Mr. Alex Ogbah (CEO of Necessities Edge Enterprises). They emphasized the importance of innovation, resilience, appropriate business structures and customer-centric services as the basis for long-term business growth.
The first keynote speech was given by Sebastian Oveta, a data scientist and analyst at the University of Cambridge, on “Front Runner Strategy: Living with AI''.
He highlighted the growing influence of artificial intelligence in the global market and encouraged Nigerian entrepreneurs to embrace digital transformation to improve productivity and remain globally competitive.
The second panel session explored the theme “Intrapreneurship: How to increase value and stay relevant.”
Speakers Blessing Anechukwu from Growfield International School, Pastor Emeka Onuchukwu from Arcans Oil and Gas Limited, and Kemi Ogbah, a former banker and entrepreneur, discussed workplace innovation, leadership and continuous learning as a path to organizational relevance.
A subsequent keynote speech by lawyer and author Michael Oyaga titled “Taxation and Business Standardization” emphasized regulatory compliance, proper documentation, and financial discipline as key elements of business sustainability.
The final keynote session was presented by Mr. Nnamdi Felix Unachukwu, Executive Chairman and Founder of BMI Finishing School, on “Building from the Ground Up: Before and After the Collapse”.
He provided a practical perspective on business failure, reinvention, and the discipline required to rebuild a stronger company.
Empowerment grants for budding entrepreneurs
A major highlight of the summit was the Empowerment Grant Awards, where 10 outstanding SMEs were selected from among the applicants and awarded business seed funding ranging from ₦200,000 to ₦500,000. This initiative underscores the church's commitment to supporting small businesses and contributing to the economic uplift of local communities.
A blend of inspiration, networking and emotional support
Beyond its educational value, the summit featured fresh networking opportunities, light entertainment such as a saxophone performance, and free access to experienced business mentors. The closing session was moderated by Ms. Jewel Opara, an evangelical pastor and transformational leader, who encouraged participants to pursue wealth with integrity and a sense of eternal purpose.
A continuing legacy of empowerment
The Prosperity Torch Business Summit reflects the broader vision of the Watchmen Catholic Charismatic Renewal Movement, a ministry dedicated to the total well-being of individuals. Over the years, the movement has supported several disadvantaged students through international scholarships and other initiatives. The summit is in line with the mission of the General Overseer, Pastor Aloysius Chukwuemeka Ohanebo, to serve as a “way of blessing to all who seek God.”
Organizers confirmed that the summit is an annual event and remains open to collaborations and partnerships with impact-focused organizations working on economic empowerment and social change.
