•Colonels Friday and Glory Ayanam
In the heart of Nigeria, The Salvation Army is being transformed through the successful leadership of the Territorial Leaders, Colonels Friday and Glory Ayanam. They are strong advocates for the international strategic priorities fostered by the General of The Salvation Army International, General Lyndon Buckingham People, Mission and Legacy.
The Ayanams’ mission extends outside the normal parameters of service, striving to leave a legacy that reflects the Army’s diversity values while serving the needs of communities across the region.
With the new territorial theme, “Reaching Wider, Growing Deeper,” the Commanders are making pragmatic moves towards the realisation of the global mission.
Through their visits to divisions and corps in Nigeria Territory, Colonels Ayanam are not only assessing current work but inspiring and empowering officers, soldiers, and the general Nigerian public. The mission is not one of assessment but of touching hearts and minds to establish a culture of active engagement in the life-changing ministry of The Salvation Army.
In the core of this revitalization is their focus on capacity building for officers, which is essential to ensure that the momentum of their projects is sustained.
The Ayanams are committed to empowering those who are destined to bring the mission to the next level, thereby creating a legacy of service that resonates the very core values of faith, love, and community service. This commitment also resulted in a significant enhancement of the curriculum and qualifications at the Officers Training College (OTC) in Lagos, taking a strategic approach in the recruitment of high-caliber candidates for the officer ranks.
The Territorial Leaders also reinstated the Territorial Youth Council, enabling a seamless transition as the old structures were dissolved and new leadership elected. This has been one of the major drivers in re-engaging members of the youth fellowship, as seen in the establishment of the Territorial Honoraries Executive, the Territorial Youth Executive, and the Territorial Student/Graduate Fellowship (SASTUGRAFE). Moreover, the recognition of the efforts of previous executives with Territorial Awards has not only cultivated a culture of appreciation but also re-energised the youth fellowship, making them more enthusiastic about mission-oriented activities.
Colonels Ayanam’s unwavering commitment to digital transformation is unprecedented and very much in alignment with contemporary needs. By leveraging technology, they seek to facilitate greater communication and coordination across the organisation, encouraging teamwork that yields sustainable outcomes to the populace they serve.
As we honour the dedication and vision of Colonels Friday and Glory Ayanam – Territorial Commander and Territorial President of Women’s Ministries – all good-hearted individuals of Nigeria are invited to join The Salvation Army. It is a call to collaborate for a noble cause, where your participation can impact society for generations yet unborn.
Walk with us in supporting national appeals, celebrating Self-Denial Week, and donating towards mission outreach activities for the welfare of internally displaced persons and refugees.
Let us create a partnership that not only dignifies our communities but also enriches our shared humanity. The door is wide open, and the work of The Salvation Army Nigeria Territory is open to all who share the vision of serving others with dedication, compassion, and integrity.
*Major Daniel Ekong is the Territorial Public Relations Officer (TPRS) of The Salvation Army, Nigeria Territory.
Ekong writes in from Lagos
