The maiden edition of the Lagos Apostolic Conference 2026 has raised a strong call for a return to what speakers described as “Apostolic Christianity,” a model rooted in scriptural authority and mission.

The two-day gathering was held from April 8 to 9 and put together by the International Network of Apostolic Christianity.

The event brought together ministers, church leaders, and believers from across the region under the theme, “Reigniting the Fire of Apostolic Christianity”.

Delivering the opening charge, Pastor Leke Akinola, President of Leave to Cleave Ministries and Director of the International Network of Apostolic Voices (INAV), said the conference was convened to move beyond religious terminology and refocus the Church on biblical substance and alignment.

In his keynote address, Apostle Tonye Oliver, International Director of INAV, drew from John 20:21 to define Apostolic Christianity as a “sent” mandate.

He explained that the word “apostolic” originates from the Greek word apostolos, meaning “sent one,” emphasizing that believers are commissioned to represent the authority, values, and culture of Christ.

According to him, “The Apostolos cannot speak for himself or act on his own account. His assignment is singular: to represent the One who sent him.

“This is the pattern Jesus modeled, and the pattern He commanded the Church to replicate.” He added that deviation from this model is responsible for many of the Church’s present challenges.

Other speakers on the first day included Rev. Stella Jack and Dr. Eleazar Ulinfun, who provided theological insights and practical guidance for church application.