The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

Nwokeji emerges Champion Newspapers businessman of the Year

The Executive Vice Chairman of a leading mining company in Nigeria, Zotmann Mining Limited, Chief Victor Nwokeji, has been named the Champion Newspapers Businessman of the Year.

The Management and Staff of Champion Newspapers, particularly the publishers of Daily and Weekend Champion, disclosed this in an award letter signed by the Group Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief, (Dr.) Mrs. Nwadiuto Iheakanwa.

According to Iheakanwa, “It is my delight and honour to inform you of your emergence as winner of Champion Newspapers’ 2025 Businessman of the Year Award.

“The award, which is a product of the painstaking selection of our Board of Editors, is our modest way of recognizing organizations and leaders in both public and private sectors of the economy who have made greater sacrifices in ensuring that the fundamental objectives and ideals of our nationhood are sustained, as well as promoting good governance and corporate services.

On all scores, she said, “our findings, largely corroborated by that of our independent assessors, confirm that Zotmann Mining Limited, which started as a strategic pivot to secure foreign exchange, has transformed into a multi-sectoral conglomerate that is competitive in the mining sector of the economy.

Read Also: Top 30 start-up finalists for technology award

“Zotmann Mining Ltd has, in line with its vision to become the leading Mining Company, identified a critical capacity gap in the Nigerian mining sector, where many license holders possessed the land rights but lacked the technical and mechanical strength to do so.

Following the company’s commitment to innovation and professionalism, the Group Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief of the Champion Newspapers disclosed that Zotmann has become the mining company of first choice among teeming customers.

She added that Chief Victor Nwokeji, the Executive Vice Chairman of Zotmann Mining Limited, is a philanthropist whose passion for human development is top-notch.

As watchdog of society, Iheakanwa said, “It is our duty not only to track and document your performance but also to acknowledge your commitment to serve and your doggedness to transform the Nigerian society. On behalf of Champion Newspapers Limited, I congratulate you on this profound achievement.”

January 22, 2026
Afenifere hails FUTA Teaching Hospital, predicts bright 2027 for Tinubu
- …as CMD dedicates take off to Fasoranti
The pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, has said the commencement of activities at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) Teaching Hospital in Ondo State would boost President Bola Tinubu’s chances of securing a second term in 2027.

Pa Reuben Fasoranti, leader of Afenifere, made the remark on Wednesday while receiving the management of the FUTA Teaching Hospital, led by its Chief Medical Director (CMD), Prof. Olusegun Ojo, at his residence.

Fasoranti applauded President Tinubu for ensuring the take-off of the long-awaited teaching hospital, describing it as a landmark achievement in strengthening healthcare delivery and medical education in the South-West.

He said the hospital’s operations would not only improve access to quality healthcare for Ondo state residents and neighbouring states but also enhance medical training and stimulate the local economy.

“We cannot quantify our joy because this hospital (FUTA) Teaching Hospital is going to be a thing of joy forever, multiplying effect, and the benefit for the community and the Southwest region as a whole.

“I want to thank the President for making this teaching hospital a reality. Thank you very much, Mr. President (Tinubu), for making our dreams a reality,” he said.

The Afenifere leader added that the hospital’s establishment is a booster for the president, noting that Tinubu is going to succeed in the 2027 election.

“Now, the establishment and kick-off of the teaching hospital is a boost to the president of this country. That is Tinubu, because he came here personally to see us (Afenifere), and we congratulated him in advance before the election. He won.

Read Also: Contractor seeks Tinubu’s help on 22-year-old Kaduna Eastern bypass

“And he came here again to congratulate us after winning the election. So, Tinubu has a very bright chance. Even for the coming election in 2027, by the grace of God, he is going to succeed,” he said.

Earlier, Prof. Ojo lauded the dedication and foresight of Afenifere leaders, particularly Fasoranti, in making the hospital a reality.

He noted that the hospital’s creation “did not happen by chance” but was driven by a genuine commitment to improving healthcare for generations to come.

Ojo also acknowledged Fasoranti’s role in recommending his appointment as the Pioneer CMD, describing it as laying a “solid administrative, ethical, and professional foundation” for the hospital.

“Your insistence that this dream must be fulfilled while you are still alive was not born out of personal gain, but out of a genuine desire to secure a better healthcare future for generations yet unborn. Baba, that singular intervention altered the healthcare landscape of Akure forever.

“As if this monumental contribution was not enough, you went further to personally recommend, through a formal letter, the appointment of Professor Olusegun Ojo as the Pioneer Chief Medical Director of this hospital. That decision laid a solid administrative, ethical, and professional foundation upon which we are proud to continue to build today.

“Baba, in every sense of the word, you are the pillar upon which this institution stands. Your influence opened doors; your credibility gave confidence; and your selfless leadership gave life to a vision that once seemed distant,” he said.

The CMD, however, pledged that the hospital team would build on the foundation laid by ensuring the institution achieves its envisioned goals.
January 21, 2026
Trump on Greenland: “We’ll work something out”

President Donald Trump has said that the United States (U.S.) and its NATO allies would “work something out” over the Greenland dispute.

“I think that we will work something out where NATO’s going to be very happy and where we’re going to be very happy,” Trump said.

He said this few hours before departing for the World Economic Forum in Switzerland.

At the same time, Trump reiterated his view that the U.S. needed Greenland for security purposes.

Asked how far he would be willing to go to bring the island under U.S. control, he replied: “You’ll find out.”

Read Also: Trump links Greenland threat to Nobel Peace Prize snub

Trump also said the U.S. had planned a number of meetings on Greenland during the high profile gathering in the Swiss alpine resort of Davos.

He has previously said that talks involving the parties to the dispute between the U.S. and Europe would take place on the sidelines of the forum, but did not specify who would attend.

The Republican president has left little doubt that he wanted to bring Greenland, which belongs to Denmark, under U.S. control.

After European NATO allies voiced solidarity with Denmark and Greenland, Trump said he would impose punitive tariffs from Feb. 1, to pressure opponents of a sale of the Arctic Island to the U.S…

Asked about opposition among Greenlanders to joining the U.S., Trump said: “When I speak to them, I’m sure they’ll be thrilled.”

(dpa/NAN)

January 21, 2026
New GOC of 81 Division warns personnel against indiscipline

The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Adebayo Babalola, has warned officers and soldiers of the division against compromising professional standards, declaring that indiscipline will not be tolerated under his command.

Babalola, who assumed office on Tuesday, said professionalism and strict adherence to standards remained non-negotiable, stressing that any personnel found wanting would be held accountable.

Speaking at a brief handover ceremony, the GOC said officers and men who maintained discipline and professionalism had nothing to fear.

“For those who have worked with me, you should know that I do not compromise standards. Once we remain professional, there will be no problem. Nigerians expect so much from the military, and there is no excuse for us to fail them,” he said.

Babalola said the Nigerian Army remained the backbone of national security, noting that soldiers must continually redouble their efforts to make the country safe and create an enabling environment for democratic governance and economic development.

Read Also: New GOC assumes Command at 8 Division Nigerian Army

He urged personnel of the division to align with the command philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff, assuring that collective commitment to the Army’s mission would guarantee success.

The GOC expressed gratitude to God and paid tribute to his predecessor, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa, whom he described as a disciplined and highly professional officer.

Earlier, the outgoing GOC, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa, said the 81 Division recorded significant operational, training, and administrative achievements during his 18 month tenure.

He attributed the successes to professionalism, discipline, and effective collaboration with sister security agencies, adding that the division maintained optimal operational readiness throughout the period.

Mijinyawa said the division successfully carried out its mandate across its area of responsibility in Lagos and Ogun states, contributing to the reduction of criminal activities through joint operations and interagency cooperation.

He disclosed that the division hosted several major Army-level training activities in 2025, including the Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference, describing the feat as a strong vote of confidence by Army Headquarters.

The outgoing GOC added that discipline within the division remained satisfactory, with cases of illegal duties by soldiers drastically reduced, while infrastructural development and improved logistics support enhanced operational effectiveness.

He lauded the Chief of Army Staff, officers, and soldiers of the division, other security agencies, stakeholders, and the media for their support and expressed confidence that his successor would surpass existing achievements.

January 21, 2026
DSS summons Awujale nominees as Ogun govt halts selection process again

The Department of State Services (DSS), Ogun State Command, has invited nominees for the stool of the Awujale of Ijebuland for screening, even as the Ogun State Government has again suspended the selection process.

The state government, in a circular dated January 20, 2026, placed the process on hold for the second time.

Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration had earlier halted the exercise on December 18, 2025, citing procedural errors.

On January 6, 2026, the government directed the Fusengbuwa Ruling House to resume the process and conclude it within 14 days.

However, just as the Awujale kingmakers were set to select one candidate from the 95 nominees, the state government again suspended the exercise through a letter dated January 20, 2026, citing security concerns and the need to protect the integrity of the traditional stool.

One of the nominees told The Nation that they were invited to appear before the DSS office in Ijebu-Ode on Wednesday, the same day and time they were expected to be at the palace.

A correspondent of The Nation sighted several nominees entering the DSS office located at Igbeba GRA, opposite the NTA office in Ijebu-Ode.

A source close to the DSS disclosed that the invitation was for profiling purposes. The source added that individuals required by the Fusengbuwa Ruling House were expected to participate in the palace process, noting that those currently needed were at the palace for screening by the kingmakers.

“It is important to clarify that the exercise was not placed on hold by the DSS or any security agency. Rather, the State Government, through an official circular already in the public domain, directed that the exercise be suspended.

“You should also be aware that prior to the postponement of the screening of nominees by the Kingmakers, the nominees were expected to visit the DSS office for profiling. This profiling is a prerequisite for comprehensive vetting and involves filling out forms that provide information necessary to vet all communities involved.

“The nominees were scheduled to come to the DSS office after the palace screening. The exercise was planned to run over several days, covering all nominees. Invitations were duly sent to them through the Palace Secretary, requesting them to report to the DSS office for the profiling exercise.

“However, while the nominees were preparing to come, another circular was issued by the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs suspending all activities related to the Awujale succession. The circular, which is also in the public domain, cited several grounds necessitating government intervention.

“Consequently, the DSS has decided to suspend the planned vetting as well. This explains why some of the nominees were seen around without the exercise proceeding.

“It is important to stress that the DSS should not be associated with any misinformation. Any report or public communication should clearly reflect that the suspension was a government decision, not an action initiated by the DSS. Misrepresenting this could lead to serious consequences.

“We are not attempting to control anyone’s narrative or suppress information. Our only concern is accuracy and the avoidance of misinformation. As professionals, once clarification is provided, it is expected to be respected.

Read Also: Alleged terror financing: DSS arrests ex-AGF Malami

“In summary, the stoppage of the exercise was a government decision, not one taken by the DSS and there is no intention to gag the press or restrict lawful reporting—only to ensure that facts are correctly presented to the public.”

Meanwhile, armed security operatives drawn from the police, Department of State Service (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Amotekun, and So-Safe Corps have beefed up security along Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona Archway leading to the Ijebu – Ode palace of the Awujale of Ijebuland over concerns that some powerful interests are alleged to have infiltrated the planned meeting of the Kingmakers in a location within the facility ostensibly to foist a candidate on them.

The Fusengbuwa Ruling House leaders – Otunba Lateef Adebayo Owoyemi (Olori Ebi), Prince Adedokun Ajidagba (Deputy Olori-Ebi), Professor Fassy Yusuf (Vice Chairman), and others had on Monday, January 19, submitted the list bearing names of the 95 nominees (candidates) to the kingmakers who were expected to meet at the Palace to begin the process of selecting one candidate out of the 95 nominees, but security operatives were sighted manning the entrance.

A letter by the Ogun State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, dated 20, January, 2026 directing the Awujale Kingmakers Council and the Fusengbuwa Ruling House to halt further steps on the selection process of the next Awujale until further notice.

“The state Government hereby directs that you convey this decision to the Awujale Kingmakers Council and the Fusengbuwa Ruling House immediately. The latter, particularly, should be advised to await further directives regarding the selection process,” the letter reads in part.

Hon. Ganiyu Hamzat, Honourable Commissioner for Local Government & Chieftaincy Affairs, who signed the letter and addressed to the Ijebu Ode Local Government Chairman, cited security concerns and the need to protect public order and the integrity of the stool as reasons for the decision.

“State Government has received several petitions, reports from security agencies and other key stakeholders in relation to the ongoing selection process. In order to maintain public order, protect the integrity of the process, and maintain the veneration of the stool, it has become imperative to halt the selection process for the stool at this time,” he stated.

The letter reads, “I write in respect of the ongoing process for the selection of a new Awujale of Ijebuland.

“As you are aware, the Awujale stool is a foremost stool in Yoruba land generally and in Ogun State particularly, where it is one of the paramount stools. Further, the stature of the immediate past Awujale, Oba SikiruAdetona, who reigned for sixty-five (65) years, significantly enhanced the modern esteem and prestige of the stool. These realities place a lot of focus, attention, and scrutiny on the next Awujale and the process by which he emerges.

“In this regard, the State Government has received several petitions, reports from security agencies, and other key stakeholders in relation to the ongoing selection process. In order to maintain public order, protect the integrity of the process, and maintain the veneration of the stool, it has become imperative to halt the selection process for the stool at this time.

“In taking this decision, the government has had due regard to the provisions of the Obas and Chiefs’ Law of Ogun State, 2021, which empower it to ‘set aside an appointment of if the Executive Council is satisfied that it is in the interest of peace, order and good government to do so.” Thus, given the reports at its disposal, the Government has elected to act proactively without further delay in the interest of peace, order, and good government by halting the process in its entirety.

“Therefore, the State Government hereby directs that you convey this decision to the Awujale kingmakers Council and the Fusengbuwa Ruling House immediately. The latter, particularly, should be advised to await further directives regarding the selection process.”

The Nation reports that a prince already endorsed by the Oracle (Ifa) as the best candidate to succeed late Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona and transform Ijebuland to a greater height was among the 95 nominees that emerged recently in the race for the throne of Awujale of Ijebuland, Ogun State.

The Olori-Ebi of Fusengbuwa Ruling House, Otunba Lateef Owoyemi, disclosed it after the conclusion of the nomination process at the Bisirodipe Hall, GRA, Ijebu-Ode, and expressed the hope that Kingmakers and the Ogun State Government would do well to select one candidate among the nominees that aligns with the yearnings of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, their ancestors, and Almighty God as revealed by the Oracle (Ifa).

The Nation reports that Princess Oluwakemi Adetokunboh, Prince Adebisi Kadiri, a retired Permanent Secretary, Lagos State, Prince Abdul – Fatai Arowolo of Aeron Construction, an engineering firm, Prince Olumuyiwa Adeyemi, Prince Okeowo Obafemi, and Prince Adegbenga Bakare were among the 95 nominees jostling to become the next Awujale of Ijebuland.

Owoyemi, who is Otunba Jadiara of Ijebuland and former President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), revealed that the royal family had carried out extensive traditional research to decide to support one candidate among the 95, whom he declined to name.

The list bearing names of the 95 nominees was endorsed by the quartet of the Olori – Ebi Fusengbuwa house, Otunba Lateef Owoyemi, his Deputy, Prince Adedokun Ajidagba, Vice Chairman, Professor Fassy Yusuf, and Pastor Bolarinde Salami (Secretary of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House), while the nomination process had in attendance officials of the Ijebu Ode Local Government, led by the Secretary to Local Government, Hon. Adebanjo Oke, as observers

January 21, 2026
Court orders INEC to recognise Nenadi Usman as Labour Party leader

The Federal High Court, Abuja on Wednesday, ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC) to recognised a former Minister of Finance, Sen. Nenadi Usman, as the valid leader of the Labour Party (LP).

In a judgment delivered by Justice Peter Lifu, the court relied on the April 4, 2025 verdict of the Supreme Court to uphold Usman’s leadership and consequently removed Julius Abure as the National Chairman of the party.

The court ordered INEC to forthwith recognise the Nenadi Usman–led Caretaker Committee as the only valid authority to represent the Labour Party, pending the conduct of a national convention.

The judgment was sequel to a suit filed by Usman marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2262/2025.

Abure and the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) were listed as defendants in the matter.

Justice Lifu said that the evidence before the court established that Abure’s tenure as the National Chairman of the party had elapsed and they could not leave a leadership vacuum in the party.

While rejecting Abure’s contention that the dispute was an internal party affair and therefore non-justiciable, the court held that the constitution of the Labour Party Caretaker Committee was a necessity flowing from the decision of the Supreme Court.

The judge said that all the questions asked by Usman were answered in her favour.

According to him, answering them otherwise would amount to judicial rascality and judicial insubordination and he could not go against the decision of the apex court.

He consequently affirmed the removal of Julius Abure as the National Chairman of the Labour Party and ordered INEC to recognise the Usman-led National Caretaker Committee as the party’s lawful leadership.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that following a leadership crisis in the party, the National Executive Committee (NEC) resolved to remove Abure as National Chairman.

To address the leadership vacuum, the party constituted a 29-member caretaker committee, with Usman as Chairman.

The decision was taken at an expanded stakeholders’ meeting of the party held in Umuahia and hosted by the Governor of Abia, Mr Alex Otti.

The meeting at which Abure was removed from office was chaired by his former ally and the party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Mr Peter Obi.

Read Also: Court summons Agodi Correctional Doctor to ascertain Auxiliary health status

Dissatisfied with the decision, Abure approached the Federal High Court in Abuja, seeking to validate his position as the National Chairman of the party.

In an affidavit personally deposed to in support of his suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1271/2024, Abure told the court that following the death of the National Chairman of the Labour Party, he was lawfully elected as Acting National Chairman.

He said this was at a NEC meeting held in Benin City, Edo on March 29, 2021.

He further stated that at a NEC meeting held in Asaba, Delta , on April 18, 2023, and monitored by INEC, the party resolved to renew the tenures of state chairmen whose tenures had expired.

According to him, the same meeting expelled some members for alleged anti-party activities and appointed replacements to fill vacant positions created by the expulsions.

Abure averred that, based on a consensus reached at the meeting, the party later held its National Convention on March 27, 2024, in Nnewi, Anambra, where he was elected as National Chairman of the Labour Party.

Although both the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal had earlier upheld Abure’s claims and ordered INEC to recognise him, the decisions were set aside by the Supreme Court, which nullified the concurrent judgments of the two lower courts.

(NAN)

January 21, 2026
No fewer than 4,500 people killed in Iran

At least than 4,500 people have been killed in Iran since the outbreak of protests at the end of December.

Activists said on Wednesday, as new figures emerged from the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA).

The group said it had so far verified 4,519 deaths, with more than 9,000 additional cases still under investigation.

Those killed included 4,251 demonstrators and 197 security forces, HRANA said.

Iran’s internet shutdown remained in place, with only limited images slowly emerging that were beginning to reveal the full scale of the violent crackdown on the mass protests on Jan. 8 and 9.

In their report, activists pointed to disturbing footage analysed by medical professionals, who said that some of the demonstrators who were killed had previously received medical treatment.

Read Also: The world is silent as bloodbath in Iran intensifies

The presence of medical equipment such as catheters and breathing tubes on bodies found outside medical settings has raised suspicions that injured protesters died after treatment had begun.

It also said the deaths would have occurred after the injured persons were removed from medical facilities without any formal confirmation of death, according to the report.

Iran’s leadership has blamed what it described as “terrorist elements” as well as its arch-enemies, the United States and Israel, for the violence during the protests.

The claims, however, cannot be independently verified, partly due to the ongoing communications blackout.

(dpa/NAN)

January 21, 2026
Troops discover terrorists’ mass grave in Borno

Troops of the Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have discovered a mass grave containing corpses of about 20 terrorists neutralised by troops during operations in Timbuktu Triangle in Borno.

This is contained in a statement on Wednesday by Lt.-Col. Sani Uba, the Media Information Officer of the OPHK.

According to Uba, the discovery showed the growing level of casualties the terrorists are suffering from military operations.

“In a further indication of the heavy losses suffered by the terrorists, troops discovered mass graves containing an estimated 20 terrorist bodies killed during encounters with troops in the Timbuktu Triangle and buried by their cohorts.

“This discovery exposes the scale of terrorist casualties and further discredits terrorist propaganda narratives,” Uba said.

The statement, which highlighted some successes recorded in ongoing operations in the Theatre, said troops had cleared and dominated key terrorist locations across the triangle, including Tergejeri, Chiralia, and the Ajigin/Abirma general areas.

According to the statement, during the operations, troops made intermittent contact with fleeing terrorist elements and engaged them with high volumes of fire, resulting in the neutralisation of several terrorists.

“On Tuesday while consolidating at a harbour area approximately 6 km North of Chilaria, troops encountered II Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIED). Through vigilance and swift action, one VBIED was successfully neutralised.

“The second VBIED, however, breached the defensive position affecting some logistics platforms. In the course of this attack, some gallant soldiers and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force paid the supreme price, while others sustained injuries.

Read Also: Kaduna communities laud troops’ onslaught on bandits

“The wounded were promptly evacuated by Nigerian Army Aviation helicopters to 7 Division Medical Services and Hospital.

“Throughout the evacuation, Nigerian Airforce platforms from the Air Component in synergy with other Nigerian Army air platforms provided continuous overwatch to ensure the safe extraction of casualties and the security of ground forces neutralising more terrorists in the process,” Uba added.

Similarly, a statement from the Spokesman of Joint Task Force North West Operation FASAN YAMMA, Lt. Col. Olaniyi Osoba, said troops of Sector 2 in that axis have neutralised two terrorists in Kebbi and rescued 62 hostages in Munhaye forest in Zamfara.

Osoba said the operations were conducted in collaboration with allied security forces and local vigilantes, demonstrating a unified front against banditry and terrorism.

“In Zamfara , troops in a separate operation, stormed Munhaye Forest, a known hideout of the notorious bandit leader Kachalla Alti following an intelligence report that the notorious bandit leader had held some captives hostage.

“The mission led to the successful rescue of 62 kidnapped victims who are now in safe custody. Efforts are ongoing to reunite the freed hostages with their families

“These operations underscore the relentless efforts of Operation FANSAN YAMMA and its partners to dismantle terrorist networks, restore security, and protect lives in the region,” Osoba said.(NAN)

January 21, 2026
Omoaghe lauds ‘visionary leader’ Keyamo at 56

An associate, Christopher Omoaghe, has congratulated Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo on his 56th birthday, describing him as a visionary leader and a “trendsetter par excellence.”

In a statement in Abuja, Omoaghe, a close associate of Keyamo, lauded the Minister for what he described as his immense personal contributions toward repositioning Nigeria’s aviation sector and strengthening international partnerships.

He noted that the Minister’s strategic approach has already begun yielding “excellent results in the economic sphere,” ensuring that the industry remains a vital pillar of national growth.

Reflecting on the Minister’s career trajectory—from his humble beginnings to reaching the pinnacle of the legal profession as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria Omoaghe highlighted Keyamo’s rare dedication to public service.

“Through his activities as the head of the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, he has earned the high respect of his compatriots and enormous authority on the global stage,” Omoaghe stated. “His journey is a testament to the power of grit and professional integrity.”

Read Also: Keyamo, ADC spokesman lock horns over zoning of presidency

The statement further emphasized the Minister’s pivotal role within the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Omoaghe expressed profound satisfaction with the current development of the aerospace sector, noting that Keyamo’s leadership has been instrumental in the administration’s success.

“Keyamo is doing a tremendous job. We also thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his steadfast support of the Minister, which has allowed for the seamless execution of transformative policies,” the statement continued.

Omoaghe added: “Festus Keyamo’s strength, his determination, and his ability to lead his team are a constant source of inspiration. With deep friendship and esteem, I wish him continued health and energy to sustain these good works toward a bright and prosperous future for our nation.”

January 21, 2026
Prophet Oluwumi links worsening insecurity to spiritual decay

A prominent cleric and President of Christ For Souls Ministries, Prophet Odedoyin Oluwumi, has raised alarm over the worsening insecurity in northern Nigeria, warning that the ongoing violence cuts across religious lines and reflects a deep spiritual crisis.

Speaking with journalists in Lagos, the cleric said the persistent killings are not limited to Christians alone but affect people of all faiths, which he attributed to what he described as humanity’s failure to worship God in accordance with divine instructions.

Revealing prophecies he said were recently delivered, Oluwumi blamed the bloodshed on a loss of spiritual power, knowledge and focus within society and religious institutions.

“Go and listen to the recent prophecy. It said they will kill my people because they lack power, knowledge, and focus. The majority of the church, as well as the majority of the worship centres,s have become dens of wolves. Many who you call Christians don’t even know Christ. They don’t know God. God has not appeared to them,” the cleric said.

He stressed that the violence has become indiscriminate, affecting both Christians and non-Christians alike.

“Not only arethey being killed. As they were killing Christians, other people were dying too,” he said.

According to the prophet, the killings are part of a broader spiritual crisis with global implications. He suggested that world events, including political developments beyond Nigeria, are influenced by divine authority.

“Look at the issue of the president of the United States. It was here, along with the prophecy I’m bringing. He said it will do what you like and what you don’t like, affecting everything. Killing is happening everywhere. Do you think God will not avenge His people? Innocent blood is crying out,” he stated.

Oluwumi warned that disobedience to God’s will could invite spiritual consequences, including instability and suffering.

“When you are not doing what pleases God, God can allow the devil to torment you. If you are talking about Christ, there won’t be a better government until Christ comes,” he said.

Read Also: Igboho urges Alaafin, Olubadan to unite against insecurity, development challenges

Touching on political and international matters, the cleric said he had previously issued prophecies relating to global developments, including Africa.

“I prophesied about the emergence of Zimbabwe. This will be the last prophecy I run on political matters. People are not aware of what is happening spiritually in this country,” he said.

As violence continues across parts of the country, the prophet urged individuals to return to what he described as genuine worship and reliance on God.

“You have to call on God. Once you don’t call Him, He will be looking at you. God knows about the suffering. But people don’t recognize Him. They don’t do His will,” he warned.

He concluded by drawing parallels between the present generation and biblical accounts of divine judgment.

“This generation is worse than Sodom and Gomorrah. If you follow God’s will, you will be spared. If not, you will face the consequences. During the time of Noah, the majority died, and only Noah and his family were saved,” he declared.

The cleric’s remarks serve as both a warning and a call for spiritual reflection, as insecurity and violence continue to claim lives across Nigeria.

January 21, 2026