Gateway International Church marks 30th anniversary.

A leading Pentecostal ministry, Gateway International Church based in Port Harcourt has launched a landmark celebration marking its 30th anniversary with a series of high-impact spiritual and humanitarian events, underscoring its influence both within Nigeria and beyond.

Branded “Celebrating 30 Years of God’s Mercy,” some parts of the anniversary events began on Saturday, April 4, 2026, with a gala night held at the church’s headquarters, the Altar of Mercy Grounds, located along St. John’s Ogbogoro Road in Port Harcourt. The event commenced at 4:00 p.m., drawing members, dignitaries, and well-wishers who came to celebrate the milestones so far achieved by the church.

The celebrations continued on Sunday, April 5, with a major thanksgiving service at the same venue starting at 8:00 a.m., marking the official anniversary date.

According to a statement issued by George Izunwa Foundation’s coordinator Chike Nwonodi, and made available to Umuaka Times correspondents, the anniversary activities extended beyond ceremonial gatherings to include large-scale humanitarian outreach.

It can be recalled that in late March, the foundation organized a three-day free medical and empowerment outreach from March 26 to 28, 2026, at the Rumueme Civic Centre. The initiative targeted the church’s first host community and ran daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The outreach recorded significant impact, serving over 3,000 beneficiaries with services including: Free medical consultations, health screenings and distribution of essential medications, eye care services, including 300 free eyeglasses, 30 cataract and minor surgeries, Skill acquisition programs and scholarship awards for 30 indigenes.

The outreach culminated in a Rumueme Community Crusade, which attracted a large turnout and reinforced the church’s longstanding engagement with grassroots communities.

Founded on January 7, 1996, by George Izunwa, Gateway International Church has grown into one of the most prominent faith-based institutions in southern Nigeria. Co-led by Manuela George-Izunwa, the church operates more than 50 branches across Nigeria and internationally.

Renowned for its emphasis on faith, personal empowerment, and leadership development, the church has built a reputation through dynamic teachings, media outreach, and large-scale conferences with messages that centre on spiritual growth combined with practical life application. Umuaka Times gathered that the Gateway International Church has resonated with thousands of followers over three decades.

Beyond its spiritual mandate, Gateway International Church has maintained a strong commitment to social impact. Its initiatives include: Support programs for widows and vulnerable populations, food distribution and financial assistance to the needy, youth empowerment and skills developments.

The church also has what is a flagship annual program, tagged “January to Please God.” This is 12-day fasting and prayer initiative held every year since 1998 and it remains a cornerstone of the spiritual calendar of the church.

Widely recognized in Nigeria’s South-South region, Pastor George Izunwa, the Lead pastor and founder of the church is known for his teaching mandate, “Go and teach my people strength,” a philosophy that has shaped the church’s identity and growth.

As the anniversary celebrations continue, Gateway International Church’s 30-year milestone stands as both a reflection of its past impact and a signal of its ongoing role in shaping faith, community development, and leadership in Nigeria and the global Christian landscape. Umuaka Times wishes Pastor George Izunwa and all the members of Gateway International Church a memorable 30th anniversary celebrations.