From Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan
The Junior Church Auditorium of Global Harvest Church, Outer Ring Road, Ibadan, was filled with deep reflection and renewed hope on Friday as author and minister, Shekinah Ahmedari, unveiled his new book, Alone but Not Lonely.
The launch took place during a men’s programme tagged “When 50 Men Pray” organised by MEX International, an initiative focused on the empowerment of men, their families, and their work.
Speaking about the motivation behind his book, Ahmedari explained that it was born out of a desire to reach people struggling with hidden burdens and personal battles that are often carried in silence.
“The book came from a strong passion to help people going through one challenge or the other burdens, pains, and hidden issues,” he said. “Many times people go through things alone. It could be the loss of a loved one, health challenges, childhood abuse, or other traumatic experiences. On the outside, they look fine and even smile, but inside, they are carrying deep weights. These weights, if left unexpressed, can grow into depression and despair.”
He described these hidden pains as “wits” burdens that sit in the heart for years and stressed that while happiness is fleeting, true joy remains constant even in crisis. Drawing from biblical stories such as Job’s trials and the faith of the three Hebrew men in Babylon, Ahmedari said joy is a force that sustains believers through the darkest moments.
“Joy is not just happiness; it is rooted in faith. It is the ability to remain confident and unshaken even in crisis. That’s why the last chapter of the book is titled Joy. Without joy, it’s difficult to overcome life’s heaviest storms,” he explained.
The book launch was hosted under the umbrella of MEX International, an acronym for Masculine Expertise. According to Ahmedari, MEX is a vision dedicated to raising godly men of integrity who can lead in their homes, businesses, and society.
“Our vision is to see men become leaders of value,” he said. “We believe in truth, integrity, and love. We are raising men who will not only prosper spiritually but will also be billionaires, influencers, and solution providers in society.”
Ahmedari recalled earlier initiatives by MEX, including a business training school launched in 2017 that empowered young entrepreneurs with financial and material support. He emphasised that the mission continues to discover, develop, and deploy talents, while mentoring men to achieve purpose.
Sharing his personal experiences, Ahmedari revealed that the book took him almost four years to complete. Part of the inspiration came from the painful loss of his sister-in-law, who died young after concealing an illness.
“She kept her condition to herself until it became too late. That experience shook me and deepened my resolve to help people speak out about their struggles,” he said.
The launch also featured testimonies from individuals who had already engaged with the book. The editor, Mr. Ishola Abisoye, described “Alone but Not Lonely” as a life-changing piece of work.
“When I was editing the book, I was personally going through a difficult season,” Abisoye revealed. “Reading the manuscript ministered healing to me. In fact, while still working on the book, I received a breakthrough job offer that transformed my life. This book is not just an inspirational text; it is a spiritual tool.”
Pastor (Dr) Bisi Oladokun, who officially launched the book, emphasised the power of reading and the role of books in shaping leaders.
“Every leader must be a reader. Books have the power to change lives and generations,” he said. “This book is inspired by the Holy Spirit, and I believe it will bring miracles and testimonies to those who read it.”
In his closing remarks, Ahmedari encouraged men and women alike to embrace openness and seek joy in God when navigating life’s challenges. He reiterated that the Holy Spirit remains the ultimate comforter who helps believers release hidden burdens. “Everyone at some point in life has faced challenges alone,” he said. “But what matters is what you do in that state.”
Copies of Alone but Not Lonely were distributed at the event, with participants pledging to not only read but also share the book with others who may be struggling in silence.
