Reverend Victor Anaele: The journey behind Eastern watchmen convergence

The Eastern Watchmen Convergence (EWC) has emerged as a significant spiritual gathering in Eastern Nigeria, drawing believers and intercessors together annually to seek divine intervention and restoration for the region. But behind its establishment lies a compelling story of faith, resilience, and spiritual warfare led by Reverend Victor Anaele.

In 2017, Reverend Anaele, moved by a profound burden for Eastern Nigeria, reached out to Apostle Arome Osayi to align with his apostolic mission. What followed was not the conventional path of church planting but the challenging process of establishing discipleship centers. Operating without significant resources, Reverend Anaele and his team began holding prayer sessions in makeshift locations, including a church kitchen. These prayers often drew resistance, even leading to their eviction from the premises for what was perceived as excessive praying.

The turning point in Reverend Anaele’s spiritual journey came in 2019 during a personal crisis. After a burglary at his office left him without essential equipment, he chose to take a 60-day retreat to seek the Lord. It was during this period, joined by three others, that he had intense encounters. One night, after a long prayer session, he experienced what he described as a direct confrontation with spiritual entities. Seeking clarity, he contacted Apostle Arome, who affirmed that such resistance often comes when prayers disrupt the spiritual strongholds of a territory. This affirmation strengthened Reverend Anaele’s resolve to continue interceding for the deliverance of the region.

By 2020, as the world grappled with the COVID-19 pandemic, Reverend Anaele gathered a group of young people for sustained intercession. Their prayers extended for hours, sometimes lasting 24 hours straight. In one session, he felt a clear directive to confront what he perceived as dark spiritual influences over the region. Shortly after making declarations, news broke of the demolition of the Church of Satan in Abia State and the arrest of its founder.

This moment reinforced the belief that their intercessory efforts were making an impact, but Reverend Anaele understood that lasting change required consistent prayer. That same year, the first Eastern Watchmen Convergence was held in Aba, featuring guest ministers like Apostle Michael Orokpo and Lawrence Oyor. Delegates from across Eastern Nigeria gathered to pray and reaffirm God’s promises for the land.

Since then, EWC has grown into an annual event, bringing together intercessors, clergy, and lay believers to sustain the spiritual momentum for Eastern Nigeria. The convergence focuses on addressing regional challenges through prayer and prophecy, with the conviction that spiritual engagement can bring about social and political transformation.

In 2023, EWC’s prayers centered on a prophetic revelation that “shooting stars” would emerge in Eastern Nigeria’s political landscape. Participants interceded tirelessly for this vision, and the election of the Abia State governor was seen as a fulfillment of this prophecy.

This year’s convergence, held from September 26 to 28, 2024, carried the theme “Great and Mighty Things.” The three-day event attracted participants from across the region, highlighting EWC’s continued influence and relevance.

For Reverend Anaele, the Eastern Watchmen Convergence is not just an event but a spiritual mandate. Reflecting on its journey, he often cites scriptures like Habakkuk 2:1-3 and Isaiah 62:1-7, emphasizing the importance of persistence in intercession.

While its origins may seem unconventional, the Eastern Watchmen Convergence has become a beacon of hope for many, demonstrating how faith, prayer, and resilience can contribute to regional transformation. Reverend Victor Anaele’s journey serves as an inspiring reminder of the impact of unwavering obedience to a divine call.