Pastor Sarah Omakwu is a charismatic and visionary Nigerian female pastor, conference speaker, and spiritual leader, best known as the Senior Pastor of Family Worship Centre (FWC) in Abuja, Nigeria. Born on July 31, 1962, she has become a leading voice in Christian ministry, empowering thousands of believers with her bold preaching, compassionate leadership, and unwavering faith.
Early Life and Background
Sarah Omakwu (née Jagaba) was born into the family of Mr. and Mrs. Jagaba in Kafanchan, Jema’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Nigeria. She spent her childhood in a small village called Nassarawa in Kaduna State, where her early exposure to Christian values laid the foundation for her spiritual journey.
She earned her first degree in Sociology from Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria in 1984. It was during her teenage years, shortly after she gave her life to Christ, that she had a profound spiritual vision: she saw herself preaching to multitudes. That divine experience ignited a passion for ministry and evangelism that has shaped her life ever since.
Education and Ministry Preparation
After her undergraduate studies, Sarah relocated to the United States in the mid-1980s. While there, she pursued a course in Cosmetology in 1987 and later obtained a Master’s Degree in Counseling from Regent University in 1992. Her theological and practical preparation for ministry was enriched during this time, as she also served in Christian fellowships and supported her husband’s pastoral work.
Meeting Her Husband: Pastor Ina Omakwu
Sarah met her late husband, Pastor Ina Omakwu, at Ahmadu Bello University. Their friendship grew through shared ministry experiences, and they eventually married in the United States in 1985. Their bond was rooted deeply in faith and purpose. She once recalled lovingly slipping perfumed handkerchiefs into his hands during his preaching engagements—a gesture that reflected their spiritual and emotional connection.
Pastor Ina Omakwu had earlier served as the President of the Good News Evangelistic Association before handing over the leadership to Reverend Dr. Samuel Kujiyat in 1983. Ina then proceeded to study for a Master's in Theology at Oral Roberts University, USA.
Founding Family Worship Centre
In April 1993, Pastors Ina and Sarah Omakwu returned to Nigeria with a burning vision to build a Christ-centered church that would transform lives. On April 11, 1993, Family Worship Centre held its first service with just 47 attendees. Today, the church has grown into a vibrant congregation of over 14,000 members, with branches and members across Nigeria and beyond.
Family Worship Centre is not just a church—it is a mission-driven organization that supports over 100 missionaries and mission agencies across Nigeria. Through this platform, countless lives have been touched, families restored, and communities uplifted.
Leadership After Loss
In February 2003, tragedy struck when Pastor Ina Omakwu passed away. Left with the responsibility of leading the church, Pastor Sarah faced deep personal grief and skepticism from some members of the church who doubted her capacity to continue her husband’s legacy.
In her words, “It was amazing to see people you thought were for you; all of a sudden, they were like foes... They said, ‘We don’t think Pastor Sarah can do this.’ It was hellish.”
But through God's strength and her resilience, Pastor Sarah Omakwu rose above the storm. She continued to shepherd the congregation with grace, compassion, and unwavering faith. Her story became one of courage, divine favor, and transformational leadership.
Ministry and Social Impact
Pastor Sarah’s leadership at Family Worship Centre goes beyond Sunday sermons. She is widely recognized for her work in:
i.Widow empowerment
ii. Orphan care
iii. Prison outreach
iv. Support for internally displaced persons (IDPs)
v. Missionary support
vi. Educational and spiritual development
In 2002, she established The Family Royal Academy, the educational arm of Family Ministries International (FMI), reinforcing her belief in raising godly children and future leaders.
She also hosts a radio program titled "Moving Forward with Sarah", where she shares practical wisdom, Biblical insights, and inspirational messages aimed at helping people grow spiritually and emotionally.
Career Highlights and Leadership Roles
Before becoming the full-time Senior Pastor of Family Worship Centre, Pastor Sarah Omakwu held significant leadership roles within Christian organizations, including:
i. Chief Operations Officer, Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN) International, Anglophone West Africa Headquarters
ii. National Director of Counseling, World Reach Nigeria – the ministry arm of CBN International
These roles further strengthened her ministry skills and administrative excellence, which she brought into her pastoral leadership.
Family Life
Pastor Sarah Omakwu is a proud mother of two biological daughters, Blessing and Favour, and an adopted son named Worthy. She is also a grandmother and continues to lead both her family and her church family with love and integrity.
Legacy and Influence
Today, Pastor Sarah Omakwu is one of the most sought-after Christian speakers in Nigeria and internationally. Her bold and prophetic teachings, her passion for justice and righteousness, and her heart for the broken and lost have made her a respected voice in the Body of Christ.
She is a trailblazer, a mother of nations, and a living testament that God can use anyone—regardless of background or opposition—to fulfill His divine purpose.
“The path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.” – Proverbs 4:18
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