In the heart of Imo State, where faith meets philanthropy, Chief Success Akagburuonye has become more than just a household name. At the just-concluded 2025 National Easter Retreat of the Assemblies of God Nigeria, the philanthropist, preacher, and community leader made headlines. Again, not for political posturing, but for an unprecedented gesture of generosity that left hundreds in awe and ten lives changed forever.
Held at the Assemblies of God Mbaise District Headquarters in Uvuru, Aboh Mbaise, the three-day spiritual retreat themed “Increase All Round” drew worshippers from across the nation. But it was Chief Akagburuonye’s powerful sermon and even more powerful philanthropy that stole the show.
Speaking on the topic, “God’s Desire For Everyone Is Prosperity,” Chief Akagburuonye didn’t just preach prosperity, he delivered it. Ten lucky participants, chosen from a ballot pool of over 200, each received a cheque of one million naira. The aim? To create ten to twenty new millionaires in Mbaise every Easter. “God prospers those who serve Him with all their heart,” he declared from the pulpit, his voice firm with conviction and compassion.
But that was just the beginning.
Chief Akagburuonye further donated six million naira toward the rehabilitation of the Assemblies of God church in Isiala Oparanadim, Ahiazu Mbaise LGA, and personally handed over four million naira to his long-time ally, Mr. Ben Nwagwu. A gesture that spoke volumes of loyalty, friendship, and the importance of investing in people.
His mother, Mrs. Nwafor Akagburuonye, stood by proudly as her son continued to change lives, not just through cheques, but through faith. “I thank God for using my son to raise millionaires and win souls for Him,” she said, echoing the sentiments of many at the retreat.
Clergymen from across Nigeria, including Rev. Eugene Nwosu (Ukwa District, Abia State), Rev. Oriuwa Udo (Director of Foreign Missions), Rev. Levi Nwaekeoma (Onitsha, Anambra State), and Rev. Boniface Abosi, the Zonal Coordinator, praised the impact of the retreat and urged Christians to remain steadfast in their walk with God.
But beyond the pulpit and the prayers lies a man increasingly in the political spotlight.
During a courtesy visit by community leaders from Owerri Zone, Chief Akagburuonye who is the National President of Hoperising for Imolites, spoke candidly about the 2027 Imo State Governorship election.
“I’m ready for the task ahead,” he told a gathering of Presidents-General, women and youth leaders at his residence in Ogbor Uvuru.
“If given the opportunity, I will not disappoint Imo people. Leadership must be anchored on accountability and the fear of God.”
Chief Jude Agbugba, President-General of Owerri Municipal and Chairman of the Owerri Zone delegation, pledged that Chief Akagburuonye’s name would not be left out of the list of credible candidates for 2027. Chief Eddy Obinna, former House of Assembly Member and political adviser, was also in attendance, lending weight to the unfolding political movement.
Philanthropy continues to underpin Chief Akagburuonye’s every move. On April 13, he was present at the funeral of Ezinne Comfort Otuonye in Lorji, Aboh Mbaise, where he pledged to handle the church window project. This, following his earlier solo financing of the church’s roofing. Venerable Chinyereze Otuonye, visibly moved, thanked the philanthropist for his compassion and loyalty.
On his way back from the funeral ceremony, Chief Akagburuonye made a brief stop at his alma mater, Lorji Community Secondary School, with more than memories. He arrived with a donation of five million naira, earmarked for students’ exam fees, staff welfare, and institutional development.
“Be of good conduct and lead exemplary Christian lives,” he advised the students. Their response? A spontaneous prayer session for their benefactor’s continued success.
Principal of the Junior Secondary section, Mrs. Faustina Anyanwu summed it up best: “I had tried and failed to get help for this school. Today, Chief Akagburuonye has made it happen.”
Whether in the church, the classroom, or the political arena, Chief Success Akagburuonye is steadily scripting a story of faith, service, and impact. One million naira at a time. One soul at a time. One community at a time.
And in Mbaise, and possibly Imo at large—that might just be the kind of leadership people have been praying for.
Stanley Okehie is an Owerri based Journalist.