Ibadan, Nigeria - April 2008

During the last 12 months Andy Economides has completed four visits to Ibadan, Nigeria, West Africa. The Soteria teams consisted of seven gifted people who voluntarily gave of their talents, time and treasure to make a difference. Ian Wilkins (44) company director, Mike Turner (46) National Health Service manager, Bernadette Ocampo (35) Philo Trust personal assistant, Joanne Kondabeka (41)

Education for Jobs
Andy Economides (51) and John Holt (53) farm manager, have recently returned from a ten day trip to Ibadan. They focused their energy at the Soteria Business School. This vocational educational establishment for school leavers is in the city of Ibadan. The School provides affordable and excellent education in Secretarial, IT and Computer studies. Other subjects taught include Maths, English, Economics, Accounting and Entrepreneurship.

The training, values and qualifications gained helps Africans help themselves by creating job opportunities, either by securing employment or by business start ups. Godwin was one of the first students at the Soteria Business School. He is excited because he can now start his own business producing web sites for others. The purpose of the Soteria Business School is to provide real education for real jobs, to impart values such as determination, integrity, service, compassion and make mature disciples of Christ.

Andy Economides spoke at four morning Soteria School assemblies. He challenged everyone to 'Become like the Father' as in the story of the Prodigal Son, to be thoroughly equipped for every good work and to be used for special purposes.

Andy gave a special hour seminar to students and staff on 'Becoming a mature disciple of Christ'.  Every week there is a counselling session offered by the teaching staff to all the Soteria students. Andy made himself available during his visit. Andy says:

"As I looked across the hall I could see a small crowd of students waiting to speak to me. Some patiently waited for over two hours. I was moved by their eagerness to press on with Christ. They opened up their hearts and asked for prayer. One young woman asked how she could have fellowship with the Holy Spirit. In thirty five years I  have never been asked that. This kind of ministry is scratching where people itch".

Kenneth Ike was appointed as the new Provost during this trip. John Holt provided valuable practical help. John and a team of very willing and able students cleared ground, carried countless buckets of top soil for flower and vegetable boarders and planted. John also painted the provost's office.

Soteria Sponsorships
The Soteria School provides educational sponsorships for vulnerable and needy young people. This includes some living in the dormitories and being fed. It costs £19 per month to sponsor a young person at the Soteria Business School. An information pack can be obtained from the office.

The second building is complete and almost ready for use. This provides two further large classrooms, a library, canteen with excellent kitchen facilities and a new dormitory. Further finance is needed for equipment, furniture, library books and running costs until the school gets on its feet. At least £12,000 is required by the end of 2008. The standard of workmanship and quality of materials is excellent. Frank Oyedeji has been an excellent engineer and builder and Soteria would not hesitate to work with him again on any further projects. Soteria Trust has awarded three scholarships to two secondary schools to enable six needy young people to receive further necessary training and education at the Soteria Business School.

Schools Matter
The Soteria teams visit secondary schools in Ibadan. The young people have enjoyed and benefited from the one hour discipleship seminars. During the seminars the teams give the young students plenty of opportunity to ask questions about the Christian faith. Hundreds of books and 'Just Ten' talks by J.John on tape or CD have been freely distributed to students and staff. Andy Economides presents the Good News to entire schools. Students eagerly listen.

Sunday Services
Pastor (Dr) S. K. Abiara of Christ Apostolic Church, Agbala Itura, Olode, Ibadan, invited Andy Economides to speak at the Sunday morning service where 1520 people gathered. Andy spoke on the Christian responsibility to love others. The next Sunday at C.A.C Oke-Agbara the much respected Pastor Michael Olowere invited Andy back to preach to his church of 2500 people. His message was on practical Christian living straight from Ephesians 4 v 25 to 32. Andy Economides appointed Pastor Tunde Gade as the leader of the Soteria Church.