Engr. Sampson S. Olukan - National President ANCEDRAM
by Oluchi Omai
ANCEDRAM Eastern Regional Conference Opens in Ughelli with Call to “Stand Fast”
Ughelli, Delta State – Drama ministers from across the eastern region gathered in Ughelli this week for the 21st Eastern Regional Conference of the All Nigeria Conference of Evangelical Drama Ministers (ANCEDRAM). In his keynote address, National President Engr. Sampson S. Olukan urged attendees to “stand fast” in God’s calling, not resting on human leaders but on divine purpose.
“You must not forsake the place of prayer,” Engr. Olukan said. “Do not put your ministry before God. Prayer must always come first, and you must discern when God is leading you to move.” He reassured ministers of God’s faithfulness: “If something is wrong, find out where you missed it.”
Drawing on Scripture, he reminded delegates that collaboration is essential in fulfilling their calling. Quoting Ecclesiastes 4:9–10, he said, “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion.” He also cited Deuteronomy 32:30: “How could one chase a thousand, or two put ten thousand to flight, unless their Rock had sold them, and the Lord had given them up?” to illustrate the multiplied strength found in partnership.
The national president highlighted four reasons to stand firm: opposition to their call, pressures to compromise, spiritual warfare, and the imminent return of Christ—“a truth many have forgotten but must be ready for.” He emphasised that drama ministers should work alongside their pastors rather than compete, recognising that pastors help nurture the souls reached through drama.
“These principles,” he said, “will guide us to stand firm in Christ.”
Drawing on Ephesians 4:11–14, he reminded ministers that God grants leaders “to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ,” so that they may “attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God.” He also quoted Hebrews 10:24–25: “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together.” This underscores the mutual support found in association.
Practical steps for collaboration, he suggested, include:
- Joining networks of drama ministers and organising joint programmes to avoid isolation.
- Attending peer events and mentoring upcoming drama ministers.
- Pooling resources at the state level to fund productions and outreach.
He also urged delegates to explore new revenue streams together, so their ministries can reach further.
National Vice President East, Dr. Dorispraise Elemi, then shared ANCEDRAM’s vision for the region: spreading the gospel through drama, winning souls, and equipping the body of Christ. She called on states to ignite or revive their drama ministries—highlighting efforts in Bayelsa—and to foster a culture of prayer, Bible study, and ongoing training. Dr. Elemi also announced plans for a regional gospel film and an evangelistic crusade across the eastern states.
The opening ceremony concluded with awards presentations and a stirring performance by ANCEDRAM’s Anambra State chapter, setting a tone of unity, passion and purpose as the conference continues through its scheduled sessions.
This was followed by a closing remark by Evang. Jenyo Emmanuel and a vote of thanks by the Chairman of ANCEDRAM in Delta State.
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