Shepherds Global Classroom recently conducted its second Global Training event of 2025. This event was hosted in Nigeria by Dr. Nnamdi Oziri, equipping 38 ministry leaders across two locations—24 in Imo State and 14 in Rivers State. SGC’s Director of Global Training, Dr. Randall McElwain, led this trip and was accompanied by Global Trainer Johnathan Arnold.
Imo State: 24 Leaders Transformed
24 participants gathered for three days of training in Imo State, Nigeria. Three highlights emerged from these three days of training.
One attendee, the head of a seminary for rural pastors, explored SGC’s curriculum and declared, “This curriculum is exactly what we need. We will be using SGC for several of our courses.” His enthusiasm underscores the value of SGC’s adaptable resources for grassroots ministry training.
A trainer from the Muslim-majority north traveled a whole day to join the 24 trainees. His dedication paid off as he discovered tools to disciple new believers in his community, proving the training’s relevance across diverse contexts.
A particularly heartwarming story emerged from a shy, reserved woman among the 24. Initially terrified at the idea of teaching, she received encouragement from Dr. McElwain during a break: “Don’t worry. You will be able to do this, and you will enjoy it.” She taught a small group on the second day, exclaiming, “That was fun.” By the final day, she confidently delivered a well-organized lesson to all 24 participants, earning applause. Dr. McElwain later told her, “God has given you a gift for teaching, and you are exactly the kind of person SGC is called to serve.” Her growth encapsulates the transformative spirit of this training.
Rivers State: 14 Equipped for Ministry
The training in Rivers State, hosted at Calvary College of Theology, welcomed 14 participants—roughly half students and half active pastors. This mix fostered a healthy exchange of ideas and experiences. Nearly all of the 14 expressed plans to incorporate SGC’s curriculum into their local training efforts. Praise God!
A Mission Realized
We are excited to see the fruit of these 38 leaders’ training. Dr. Randall McElwain and Johnathan Arnold, alongside Dr. Nnamdi Oziri, facilitated a program that reached rural educators, urban pastors, and even a trainer from Nigeria’s northern frontier. These 38 newly trained leaders are now poised to multiply their impact, carrying SGC’s resources into their ministries.
We don’t say it nearly enough, but thank you to all who make these trainings possible. Your partnership fuels these life-changing events, where 38 individuals—each with unique stories and callings—step into greater effectiveness for God’s Kingdom. Your support is empowering the global church, one leader at a time. Together, we celebrate God’s work in Nigeria and look forward to the fruit it will bear!
