By Enyichukwu Enemanna
Ahead of his inauguration as the 47th President of the United States on Monday, President-elect Donald Trump has invited Nigeria’s Pastor William Kumuyi, the General Superintendent of the Deeper Life Bible Church, to Washington, D.C., to witness the historic event.
Trump, the 45th President of the US, made a shocking comeback in November when he secured victory over Vice President Kamala Harris of the Democratic Party in the presidential poll.
Trump’s invitation to Kumuyi was confirmed by A. Larry Ross Communications, a leading US-based public relations firm.
According to Ross Communications, Kumuyi’s invitation reflects Trump’s desire to have globally influential spiritual leaders at the historic event, highlighting the significance of faith in his leadership journey.
Pastor Kumuyi, reacting to his invitation, lauded Trump for “his bold commitment to defending Christian values and championing international religious freedom throughout his first term in office.”
Kumuyi also praised Trump for his efforts to strengthen faith-based initiatives and prioritise issues that resonate deeply with the global Christian community.
“President Trump’s stand for the gospel is not without recognition, not just by American Christians, but by all Christians globally.
“During his first term in office, President Trump hosted the first-ever meeting of foreign ministers focused solely on international religious freedom, and in his campaign, he promised to support Christian values and priorities,” he stated.
“This moment in history reminds us that faith transcends borders and unites believers worldwide.
“As we gather in Washington, D.C., the global church stands together in prayer and purpose, advocating for faith-based dialogue to shape policies that uphold religious liberty and foster the growth of Christianity worldwide,” the vocal Christian leader added.
He is the second Nigerian gospel minister to be invited to the second inauguration of the estate tycoon as President of the world’s largest democracy.
Earlier, renowned Nigerian gospel singer Nathaniel Bassey had announced his invitation to Trump’s presidential inauguration, which is expected to have world leaders in attendance.