Solomon Ekiyor is a university chaplain serving in Ukraine.
When did you trust Christ?
I was born into a Christian family, baptised and confirmed in the Anglican Church in Nigeria. However, I became born-again, received Jesus Christ into my heart, and dedicated myself to love and serve His purposes during my university years, during an evangelical outreach on campus.
What have been the defining moments of your Christian walk?
Growing as a young disciple of Jesus Christ, I was well supported by the campus church community. An unforgettable experience was the day the leaders prayed for me, laying hands on me, and I received the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Inexpressible joy and peace flooded my heart, and I felt so loved by the Lord, and the passion to know the Lord has been unquenchable since that moment.
What do you hope to gain from participating?
Attending the European Leadership Forum would greatly strengthen my ministry in Ukraine by equipping me with renewed vision, tools, and networks for serving in a time of war. I would gain access to advanced biblical teaching, leadership training, and mentoring that can directly enrich my pastoral care to students navigating trauma and uncertainty. The opportunity to connect with like-minded leaders across Europe would provide encouragement, partnerships, and resources to sustain ministry under pressure. It would also help me bring back fresh strategies for discipleship, resilience, and Gospel witness that can empower both the university community and the wider church in Ukraine.
What is your ministry?
As a university chaplain in Ukraine, my ministry has been one of presence, encouragement, and hope in the midst of war. I walk alongside students, many of whom are far from home and struggling with uncertainty, fear, and loss. I am able to offer pastoral care, prayer, and practical support. In a time when classrooms echo with anxiety and communities are fractured, I create spaces of fellowship, worship, and resilience where faith brings comfort and courage. My role is to remind students and staff alike that they are not alone—that even in the face of conflict, God’s love and peace remain steadfast.
What is your leadership role or what were your past leadership roles?
I have served in various chaplaincy and pastoral roles across two continents.
Why should someone invest in your ministry?
My chaplaincy serves students and staff who are directly affected by the ongoing war in Ukraine. By equipping me with deeper training and resources, supporters are indirectly strengthening the resilience and faith of young people who represent hope for Ukraine’s future. Additionally, there is a multiplying effect. The skills, tools, and mentoring gained at the Forum will not only benefit my own ministry but will be passed on to students, staff, and fellow leaders I mentor, creating a ripple effect far beyond my personal involvement. In the midst of conflict and trauma, burnout is a real risk. Training and fellowship with other Christian leaders will refresh and renew my vision, ensuring my ministry remains strong and effective. By supporting me, individuals are taking part in a global mission, linking hands with believers across Europe to strengthen the church under pressure and extend the gospel in one of the most challenging contexts today.
