The Nation Newspaper

Category: Sunday magazine

  • Why more women are coming down with mental illness

    Why more women are coming down with mental illness

    More and more, spectacles of women down with conditions suspected to be mental disorder, are becoming a common sight in Lagos and environs. Just what could be responsible for this unsavoury development? Gboyega Alaka explores.

    Joy, a mother of one, roams Ikeja axis of Lagos, in filthy clothes, her about two-year old son strapped to her back, begging for alms.

    No-one knows her age, her family, relatives or the father of her handsome son, whom she has christened, Thoughful.

    Joy is also very secretive such that the only information she has volunteered aside her name and her son’s name is the state she originated from – Rivers State.

    She would also not have her photo taken, as she always moved her face once the camera is focused on her.

    Notably, Joy would always opt to sit directly under the sun at her favourite spot opposite Nuel Ojei Holding office building in Ikeja, whereas there is enough shade provided by trees just a few meters away.

    To the average layman, Joy ‘s condition might just be depression, especially, as she exhibits some level of sanity, though in a weird manner. For instance, she is so protective of her son that she never drops him. Also, she would not give him any food touched by another person, be it directly or in a pack. She would rather you gave her money and allow her buy whatever it is herself or you pay and have her take it directly from the seller. She also would never drop him, not for a second, to the extent that observers now fear the about two-year-old boy may not be able to walk when she eventually puts him down.

    Call it the natural protection instinct of a mother taken too far, and you may just be right.

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    According to observers, most of them traders under the nearby trees and LAWMA street sweepers who take a rest under the trees after their hard day’s work, Joy goes as far as using dettol antiseptic to rub her son’s genital before strapping him with diapers.

    “I’d be surprised if that boy’s genital has not started decaying with the way she rubs it with that dettol,” one of the women said.

    They are therefore calling on the relevant authorities, particularly the Lagos State Government, to move in and rescue mother and child. While they are particular about the boy, many of them insisted that Joy’s case may not be beyond redemption if quick intervention steps are taken.

    Some even fear the boy could be snapped up by ritualists, while Joy could be preyed on sexually.

    On the day of this reporter’s visit, Joy had a swollen hand, which one of the women pointed out, could be as a result of night marauders trying to take advantage of her. “That hand wasn’t swollen two days ago when I saw her,” she swore.

    Joy’s case is one out of several women suffering different levels of mental illness, roaming Lagos streets.

    More women on the streets

    Around Ikotun market in Ikotun area of Alimosho Local Government Area, Lagos, another spectacle awaits this reporter. No-one spoken to knows her name, family or where she came from, but she roam the busy market area nevertheless, not speaking with anybody, except when she’s begging for food or picking up remnants or whatever she could lay her hands on.

    Unlike Joy, she has no baby burden and her major preoccupation has been picking trashes, more of which she wraps round her half naked body, and chewing whatever catches her fancy. When she’s not doing that, she is sitting quietly or lying in front of closed shops. Literally, she is unaware of her environment.

    At nearby Ile-Iwe Bus-stop, Egbe, a worst spectacle currently plays out. A stark naked woman roams open streets unhindered in broad daylight! Though emaciated, filthy and almost devoid of that woman sexuality, still naked is naked and the spectacle is such that could be described as abhorrent.

    A woman who sells snacks by the bus stop, wondered why nobody in government had deemed it fit to take her away from the street and save them and especially their children the ugly daily spectacle.

    “Do you know she sometimes sits in the middle of the median, her legs wide open, rummaging through the trash? How does one live with such spectacle? These days, I actually send my kids home anytime she is within the vicinity. Can you please tell the appropriate authorities to come and take her away?

    All over the city of Lagos, it is not uncommon to see women, and of course men, roaming the streets or seated in corners, with conditions clearly suspected to be of mental illnesses. A cursory look seems to point to the fact that more women fall into this category.

    While many could be categorised as depression, some may actually be psychosis, And while there may not be an accurate data in this part of the world to corroborate this conclusion, one may as well back it up with a an article titled: Prevalence and factors associated with depression among medical students in Nigeria, published in the Nigerian Postgraduate Medical Journal, Volume 28, No. 3 of July-September  2021 edition, which states that:

    “Depression is a major public health problem with a prevalence of 4.4% in the global population, and 5.4% in the African region. It affects about 322 million people globally. Depression, like in other regions of the world is more common among females (5.9%) compared to males (4.9%) in African. The prevalence of depression in Nigeria is estimated at 3.1%.

    The article states further down that: Depression is the leading cause of suicide, resulting in close to 800,000 deaths annually (WHO), which makes it a great cause for concern.

    More women suffer mental disorder – reports

    The World Health Organisation (WHO) stated in an article titled Depression, published on September 13 2021, in its Key Facts section, that ‘More women are affected by depression than men.”

    This is corroborated in an article in Turnbridge.com, titled: Women and Mental Health: Which issues disproportionately affect women and why, where it states that “Both men and women can develop a mental health disorder, however, more women are affected than men. Additionally, women are more vulnerable to certain mental health disorders than men.”

    It stated further that “an estimated 7 percent of women were affected by a serious mental illness in 2020, compared with 4 percent of men in the US.

    The article additionally explained that the pandemic worsened mental health among women, to the extent that 25% women reported they were struggling with moderate to severe anxiety, compared to under 18 percent in men in the US.

    If this could be the case in a developed country like the US, one might as well imagine what the situation would be like in African countries, suffering worse socio-economic/welfare conditions.

    The report of a survey conducted by Africa Polling Institute and EpiAFRIC and published in Mental Health In Nigeria (January 2020), confirms the rise in cases of mental ill ness, when it stated that “An estimated 20%–30% of the Nigerian population are believed to suffer from mental disorders. This finding corroborates with the 2006 WHO-AIMS report that claims that about 20 million Nigerians suffer from mental illness, of which a good number of them go without professional assistance.”

    Mental health/mental illness

    According to the World Health Organisation, mental health is “a state of well-being in which the individual realises his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community. Mental illness, therefore, is the opposite of what mental health is. When you are unable to function properly or cope with the normal stresses of life, then you are mentally ill.”

    Why more women suffer mental disorder

    The reasons for this high figure, the EpiAFRIC report claimed, have been attributed to economic hardship, negative environmental extremities, and the rising cost of decent living in the country.

    Quoting Turnbridge.com in the article stated above, “Many factors are thought to increase women’s vulnerability to mental health disorders. These factors relate to their biological makeup as well as their specific experiences as women in society.

    “From a biological standpoint, research shows that women’s brains are very different from men’s, which could play a role in their susceptibility to certain mental health conditions. Their brain anatomy may also cause women and men to experience mental disorders differently.”

    It stated further that “women have different experiences than men, as they walk through life. In general, women are constantly up against societal expectations and pressures that can negatively impact mental health. For example, women place great importance on their physical appearance – largely because society tells them to do so. Women are also expected to be empathetic, warm, friendly, and nurturing, which does not come naturally to every woman. It is these qualities, combined with attractiveness, that women often strive for to fit in of feel valued in society today. However, this can cause chronic stress and lead to mental health conditions.”

  • MORIAM MUSA: Fruit smoothies help me glow

    MORIAM MUSA: Fruit smoothies help me glow

    MORIAM MUSA is the Head Publicist at Morsi PR and Founder of Tribe and Elan. She tells Yetunde Oladeinde about her beauty routine and the things that have worked for her over the years.

    The first secret is this: “I maintain a strict beauty regime and work out often.”

    Next, Moriam takes you to the other things she does to stay fit, radiant and alluring. “Once I can peel myself away from work which is not very often, I pamper myself. But when I do get the chance, it relieves me of all the pent-up stress.”

    Now, she takes you into her world and the other things she does to look good and healthy.

    “I have a strict day and night routine that I observe regularly.  This has worked for me and it gives me the opportunity to operate at my fullest. So, I observe my day and night routine. No matter how tired I am.”

    Now you want to know the things our trendy fashionista avoids in her diet and she responds this way. “Sodas, salty foods and processed meals as much as possible”.

    Even though she loves to have a variety of outlooks depending on the event or her mood, creating styles that are dynamic, there are also a number of things that she avoids.” I don’t like wearing leggings or 6-inch heels.”

    The discussion moved on to having a great makeup or makeover and happily, she informed me that her favourite products come from the Zaron cosmetics range as well as Banke Meshida as her favourite makeup artiste. Keeping fit is something Moriam is also very passionate about and she visits the gym for exercises three times a week.

    The hair is the crowning glory for everyone and she takes you into her choice.

    “A ponytail. It just shows my pretty face to the world.”

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    She adds that: “As you know with new innovations in the beauty industry, far gone are the days of applying just moisturisers. These days you apply in layers from toners and serums to sunscreens. It’s a ritual I observe each time, no matter how tired I am, especially at the end of the day and this is because of the exposure of my skin to all sorts during the day.”

    Fruits have been very helpful and Moriam believes they have contributed to her glow and more. “I would rather chew on fruits or make a smoothie to meet the cravings of my sweet tooth.”

    Her skin is one asset that Moriam does not joke with at all. It radiates and gives her that sense of pride each time she steps out. What is the magic you wonder and she responds this way:” I love to pamper my skin and the result makes me happy. I usually do that by washing my face and going for spa treatments. In addition, I try to never miss my night routine.”

    A good diet, she informs is also an advantage when it comes to looking good and healthy.

    Home remedies, she informed have also helped to make the process of looking good interesting and easy.

    “Looking good is also about having a good and healthy body routine. I take my bath twice daily and that is one thing that makes me feel fresh all the time. I also don’t joke with facial and body scrubs because it works very well with my skin. “

    Next, the energetic beauty goes on to talk about the things that she loves to eat as well as avoid in her diet. “I don’t really avoid much in my diet, which I should and I think that is something that I should look into. However, I reduce my sugar in take and food with obvious or too much fat. Lastly, I try not to eat late at night and that works for me”.

  • OMOAYENA ODUNBAKU: I swam against the tide

    OMOAYENA ODUNBAKU: I swam against the tide

    Omoayena Odunbaku is the founder Her Ability Hub, Lecturer, advocate for cleaner environment, town planner and UN Habitat expert. In this interview with Yetunde Oladeinde, she takes you into her world, inspiration and more.

    Tell us about your experience working with UN Habitat ?

    Its has been fulfilling. Starting off as the project officer for the Africa Urban agenda and then liaison for relevant agencies to human settlements officer in charge of Anglophone West African Countries has enabled me to engage with all relevant state and non-state actors. From the hawker, trader, heads of agencies, high level government personnel, academia, non-government groups, financial institutions, etc. the reaffirmation that proper arrangement and ordering of land uses complemented with contextualised economic interventions is the antidote to sprawling, slum proliferation, insecurity, poverty, and most vices associated with African human settlements and Nigeria in particular.

    What are some of the memorable moments as lecturer at the university of Lagos and Moshood Abiola polytechnic?

    Ojere hmmn! While marking a test script, the candidate had answered Coca cola, sprite, fanta, pepsi and miranda to the question “list 5 natural mineral resources that can be found in Nigeria”. Quite shocking, because the academic culture was a contrast from my alma mata – University of Lagos. Ojere really prepared me for Unilag, every time I stood in front of the class to deliver lectures to the students. At Unilag, I adopted a different approach to teaching and administering the courses. Although most of my colleagues couldn’t hide their sketism, and majority of my students embraced it warmly. During classes, we had very interesting exchanges because the students became quite very free with me. We had an exchange platform called easyclass. Adopting Easy class an educational social media, allowed for seamless flow of information pre and post physical lectures. This ideally informed the temperaments during the next class. During one session of spatial economics, we were analysing the market structure of Lagos traditional settlements, the discussion is still very fresh in my memory. I witnessed the power of collective- innovative thinking. Even the tagged unserious students gave in their best and that helped in improving the quality of presentations.

    Tell us about your book and what inspired you to put it together?

    OMOH is an exciting chronicle of my life in the past 4 decades. Every chapter is complemented by anecdotes from family members, friends, colleagues, classmates, mentors and mentees. It profiles my person as a young African female professional. The choices I have made and to what extent they have affected or influenced my persona. It highlights the values of the relationships we build and how the people we meet in life play a pivotal role in who we become. It captures me as a dogged, lovable, quirky and funny young mother who despite living through the pain of my parent’s separation,assuming parenting roles as a minor and still defied all odds to become who I am today. I particularly like the foreword by Justice Nkemdilim Izuako the former President of the United Nations Dispute Tribunal and my Husband’s interview- both parties highlight a salient part of me not open to so many- my religious tolerance (a catholic married to a devoted Muslim) and dedication and devotion to my faith. Quite an interesting piece of work, I have read it twice and each time I do, I wonder where that young go-getter girl is, it always leaves me inspired. I was wondering what to do for my 40th birthday and then had a discussion with one of my former students and mentee – Mohammed Abdul-Rahman. Without stuttering or thinking twice, he said – Aunty write a book. He birthed the idea of the book for reasons best known to him and sourced for the initial resource persons i.e publisher and videographer. It initially posed as a challenge but with cheering and consent from Olayinka Odunbaku (my husband), I unenthusiastically accepted.  Permit me to use this medium to thank him for his unwavering support that enabled me to embark on a self-realisation journey of OMOH. 

    What are the other things that occupy your time now?

    Work – Family and HerAbility Hub. I dedicate a significant percentage of my spare time for girl -child empowerment and advocacy. This gave birth to HerAbility Hub, and thanks to my family and amiable team for ensuring that the dream was actualised. HerAbility is a female community platform whose objective is to empower females to make good life choices through career talks channelled towards mentorship of young female secondary school students, interactive forums to steer critical thinking skills, mentor pairing for inspiration and real-life sound boards and complementary civic engagement lessons for desired positive societal change.

    I have an inherent interest in teenage development, especially the girl-child and the role they play in society. Persons from less privileged backgrounds typically have a disadvantaged head start, hence it is imperative to continually advocate, build capacity and make provisions for positive platforms that allow them to rise beyond the casted hurdles that typically stall them from maximising their potential and attaining their desired professions.

    I love to spend time with my children and husband, I read a lot as well and try to catch the much-needed rest. It will surprise you that one of my hobbies is sleeping.

    What are the challenges you encountered?

    Quite a number. From failing having to experience my parents breakup, to failing JAMB at first attempt, not studying the course of my choice, not able to secure a job out of NYSC, and the list goes on. Life is not a bed of roses, it could be difficult, all I had to do is pick up all odds and swam against the tide.

    My dad aways told me that life is what you mostly make of it, and I should not leave luck to chance. I understood probably not early enough though, but in a good time when a lot of people were basing their future solely on chance and miracles to FOCUS and keep at it. I also identified that we are all unique in our own way and I needed to concentrate on my strength and comparative advantage rather than on my weaknesses.

    What are some of the changes you would like to see in Nigeria today?

    More female representation in public and corporate governance, economic models and policies that stimulate the national economy, boost local production, and strategically position Nigeria with the Africa region and global trade. Economic policies that are complemented with spatial plans and infrastructure provision. I would also like Nigeria to develop and adopt a new infrastructure financing and management models, provide conducive environments for innovation and this can be achieved in partnership with institutions of higher learning. There is a long list, but all said and done, I wish for a Nigeria for all Nigerians and Nigerians for one Nigeria. Citizens should understand their obligations; no 1 of that is to be a law-abiding citizen, to desist from engaging in vices in the name of protesting against bad governance of hardship and their excuses. But understand that they also have a very crucial role in Nation building. The governments should also assume its primary duties of protecting the lives and properties of its citizens, national sensitisation and orientation programmes that aims to achieve inclusion and patriotism is needed like last decade.

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    Tell us about the people you admire?

    I admire positive minded, empathic, loving and loyal go getters- persons with a heart, conscience and can-do spirit.

    Who or what do you consider as the greatest influence in your life?

    My father- Prince Gabriel Akomoh Yadua. He selflessly extended his values entrenched in empowering others, imparting knowledge, selflessness, and generosity in all spheres of life to ensure I saw the world for what it is. His resolute commitment in making certain that I never felt like an outlier rather, an enigma, is one the secret to most of my achievements till date. I make bold to say his legacies will live on, because my siblings and I have founded the Gabriel Akomoh Yadua Foundation. The Gabriel Akomoh Yadua Foundation (aka Gabby Foundation) is a Nigerian based non-profit educational organization created in 2021 with the goal of creating an enabling environment for mathematically distinguished students from disadvantaged backgrounds. We have a STEAM Laboratory located in Shomolu LGA and it serves as an additional school model to offer a pathway for students to be better prepared for college, career and life. The Foundation supports teaching and learning while strengthening the technology skills of students in the incorporation of cooperative learning strategies, authentic assessments, technology integration, and problem-based learning into lesson and unit plans. 

    What is your definition of style?

    I like to keep it very simple but classy, hence I rather classic pieces than seasonal items. As a young girl I admired Mariam Babangida a lot, she oozed of elegance and class. Oprah Winfrey is effortlessly stylish, exuding determination, courage and inspiration. Lately, Serena William’s fashion style has been catching my attention. It exhibits poise, simplicity, boldness and  elegance. 

    How would you assess the performance of the average Nigerian woman today?

    The Nigerian woman is the backbone of Nigeria’s economy despite the challenges she faces daily. Go to the market, the hospitals, schools, churches, etc. Majority of the workers, staff members and traders are women. The women just need a paradigm shift in their approaches to life, complementing the determination and dexterity with increased formal education. The emancipation of the mind, that they can achieve their dreams and actualise their full potentials, rather than having truncated life trajectories due to peculiar challenges and societal norms, bias and stereotypes.

    What lessons has life taught you?

    Plenty oo.. there is a lesson for every phase. The Africa proverbs do quite some justice to life lessons. I constantly remind myself to “FOCUS: There are no limits”. Even when everyone is against you; don’t be against yourself; you need to believe in yourself. I have also learnt that the world doesn’t like outliers, but once they are successful, they are celebrated.

  • 2023: Vote with faith, says cleric

    2023: Vote with faith, says cleric

    The Convener, Eternal Gospel Believers Association Africa Zion, Revd David Olutade, has called on Christians to vote with faith in next year’s election for the will of God to be done.

    Olutade said this at the African Zion independence Reality Conference tagged, Divine Election and the Elect. held at Christ Gospel Apostolic Church Cathedral, Lagos.

    According to him, the church needs to pray for the will of God to be done. “Voting belongs to man, but election belongs to God. Voting may not count but our faith will count. Voting out of faith will not count. That is the advantage the people of the world are exploring. When we vote with faith, then our vote will count. When you vote without faith because of bribery and corruption, the result will be the permissive will of God,” he added.

    He noted that an election is a call and after it is an ordination, which is done only by God, adding that election is not child’s play but a divine issue.

    Olutade stated that Christians must not be laid back in governance in Nigeria as the push for independence was done by Christians who, after their education, negotiated for Nigeria’s independence.

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    “It is only the son of God that can interpret the programme of God for the earth. Politics belong to the people of God. If this is the only means of electing leaders, we must get involved because until we have righteous people on the throne, Nigeria may continue to experience distress and problems, he said.

    He stressed that anything that opposes God in the next year’s election would not stand, adding: “The election of anyone that will not favour the church will not stand.”

    Also, the Convener of God’s Kingdom Gospel Church Global, Apostle Lordslight Osibowale, urged unity among Christian as division and denominationalism remain the greatest weapon the devil is using against the church.

    He said: “Let us unite with the zeal of the gospel that God has given to us. At the gate of heaven, there is no Bishop or Rev but saints whose ropes are washed in the blood of the lamb. Let us drop our title and work together to rescue the country from the grip of sin, wickedness, and all forms of ungodliness.”

  • Nigeria needs pragmatic, forthright leaders – Daniel

    Nigeria needs pragmatic, forthright leaders – Daniel

    The National Deputy President, Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), JohnPraise Daniel, who is also the presiding Archbishop of the Dominion Chapel International Churches and Presiding Prelate, Pentecostal Bishops Forum of Northern Nigeria, was recently in Lagos for a conference where he addressed some national issues. By Adeola Ogunlade.

    Sixty two years after independence, Nigerians still lament over some teething challenges; does this bother you?

    I’m a lot bothered especially when I go to other countries, especially smaller countries, and see what is happening there. Earlier this year I was in Cotonou and Togo, from the airport, I was telling God ‘why can’t our leaders see what is happening even in these smaller countries?’ If you land at the Lagos airport you will see grass around the runway but if you go to Rwanda or Ghana, you will see the setup of their airports. When you enter the tarmac of our airports here in Nigeria, it is so disappointing. Part of my training is in transportation engineering. I specialised in highway transportation and tarmac construction. I noticed that most of our airports are not built to standard. It bothers me that things are not being done right in our nation.

    My prayer is for a pragmatic and forthright leadership that will be concerned about people other than themselves. Also, we need a leadership that will get governance to the grassroots. Look at our roads, you can hardly travel by road anywhere. I went from Abuja to one of our churches in Nasarawa and I was lamenting over the state of the road.

    I believe this country can be better and that can only begin with good leadership.  By the time we begin with the right leaders I believe that things will be put right in this nation. I pray that God hears the cries of His people. Let us also be optimistic that God will turn things around for good. I will also like to point out that having travelled to many places, I also think we have not done badly in terms of development looking at Abuja and Lagos, we have some things to show.

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    So, we cannot totally say we are behind in terms of some roads, buildings, construction and other infrastructures. There was a time I went to the third largest city in Kenya for a conference and we were with the president at the stadium. I looked and said even my local government stadium cannot be like that.

    A measure of development is going on in the country and the fact that we have not done badly does not mean we cannot do better. We can have better roads and other infrastructures put in place here in Nigeria.

     Nigerian leaders travel to enjoy good infrastructures in foreign countries and feel at ease not replicating the same here; why is that so?

    I think it has to do with leaders that are nonchalant. Sometimes, I wonder why they are this way. Look at what happened during COVID-19 when travelling was restricted, I thought they would have learned and tried to put medical facilities in place for people to avoid traveling and to have our doctors stay back.

    I tell you the truth, this country is the best, we have the best weather, the best set of people, rich in human resources and rich in mineral resources. I am sure some countries are jealous of us, and maybe that is why they keep causing trouble so that we do not enjoy peace. It is time for us to maximize what God has blessed us with in this country and ensure we have the best living standard instead of people leaving here for other countries.

    I pray that the candidates running for the presidency should begin to think in the direction of representing the people and not going there for themselves. I am happy that they have all been in leadership, Tinubu has been a governor likewise Peter Obi, also Atiku has been a vice president. They should not go there to incur debt for the nation or to carry the money we do not have. They should see how to make this country develop, move forward and get away from poverty.

    You were in the news recently for meeting with the APC presidential candidate; was it on the same faith ticket of the APC?

    The party that did it was not very sensitive to the feelings of the Christian body, especially, from the northern part. I am from the north and I know the Christians from the North do not feel quite good about it. Efforts were made initially even after the appointment of the vice- presidential candidate.

    Concerning the meeting with the APC presidential candidate that raised some uproar, I have been directed not to grant an interview on that. However, by the grace of God, the Pentecostal Bishops Forum of Northern Nigeria hosted Tinubu to a parlay on September 22 at Johnwood Hotel in Zone 5 and not the campaign office as reported in many papers. I said ‘let us listen to him in line with John 7: 51, you do not judge  a man without listening to him.’ Also, to ask how the church under his administration will not suffer if he becomes the president and he tried to answer a few questions.

    We are not happy with the insensitive decision but there is room to make an informed decision on who to vote for. Vote according to your conscience and how God is leading you. The same faith ticket decision had been made already so the next is having a way forward. Besides, this present administration has the Vice President as a Christian but that did not stop the magnitude of killings, especially in the North. In fact, when the President was away and he made some changes, the President upon return reversed the changes.

    My humble advice is that we should not fold our hands but encourage candidates with the strength of character to fight corruption, the capacity to rule, can bring about positive changes, and end insecurity, embezzlement, and other things that this country has been challenged with. The Christian Association of Nigeria  (CAN) gave guidelines on things to look for in voting not only for the next president but also for the governorship position and other electoral positions. I believe it is critical to consider the voting guidelines CAN gave in order to move the nation forward.

  • Our present state not beyond redemption says Agbe

    Our present state not beyond redemption says Agbe

    The General Overseer of God Is Able Evangelical Mission, Timothy Agbe, has charged Nigerians to keep their hope and confidence in God as Nigeria’s present state is not beyond redemption.

    Agbe, said this to newsmen ahead of the Church’s annual conference starting on 31 October, through to 6th, November which coincided with the 31st anniversary. The event will hold at the church, National Headquarters, Ketu- Alapere, Lagos.

    The conference theme: ‘Peniel’ was taken from Genesis 32:30.

    Agbe said that almost everything in Nigeria was looking like an illusion, making it seem as if the country was living in the dark.

    He said “we are trusting God that years ahead if Nigeria will come back to God things will be easy. He said seek me and you will find me – Nigeria has not looked unto that aspect of seeking God. The leadership appears to be like that of Pharaoh who knew not God.”

    He said that things would be good again for Nigeria, provided the citizens would turn back to God.

    “What sustained Nigeria till today is the presence of the children of God that cry unto Him – otherwise Nigeria could have been a disaster and in disarray,” Agbe said.

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    Speaking about the Church’s annual conference, Agbe said that God has journeyed with the Church over the years.

    According to him, the theme of the conference ‘Peniel’ means God will journey with the Church into the future. “I’m trusting God that everyone participating will have a lasting experience and testimony from the 2022 conference. There has never been a time that we have not had this conference since April 1991, when the ministry started with the theme, ‘Launch into the Deep,’” he said.

    On the socio-economic challenges bedeviling the country, Agbe said that Nigeria might have missed it; but if at 62 they come back to God, they will be accepted. “Nothing is ever late with God,” he said.

    Busayo Adeniyi, chairman of the conference planning committee, said that the 2022 conference theme, ‘Peniel’ was taken from Genesis 32:30, and that the congregation will use the opportunity to pray for the unity of the Church in Nigeria, especially ahead of the 2023 general election.

    Speaking on how the church has been able to sustain the conference over the years, Adeniyi, who was represented by Taiwo Ogunniranye, a member of the conference planning committee said, “It ways been God’s provision even beyond financials,” stated Adeniyi, who was.

    He stated further that Sam Tukura, the senior pastor of Global Fire Center will be the guest minister, while Yinka Alaseyori will minister in songs.

  • Osa oni, Madubuko, Adun to grace CCIC at 40

    Osa oni, Madubuko, Adun to grace CCIC at 40

    The Deputy National President, South West of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Archbishop John Osa-Oni, the General Overseer of Revival Assembly Church,  Apostle Anselm Madubuko and President of Eagle World Outreach, Apostle Femi Adun have been billed to grace the 40th anniversary and Camp Meeting of The Christ Chapel International Churches (CCIC) holding on the 25th to 30th, October at The Stable, Surulere, Lagos.

    Tagged: Possessing Your Promised land will bring together thousands of Christain faithfuls around the world.

    Announcing this at a press conference held recently at the church in Surulere, The Chairman of Church Council, CCIC, Rev Dan Ibekwe, stated that  the anniversary celebration is a celebration of life and faithfulness of God over the ministry, adding that ths focus of the church is to touch lives and glorify God.

    Ibekwe says the church has been a strong advocate to change the attitudinal disposition of Nigerians and also eliminate social vices through several programmes aimed at helping the people to shun improper conduct in the society.

    Explaining the plans for the celebration, The Chairman of the 40th anniversary committee, Pastor Niyi Odetayo stated that #I million grant will be given mainly for members of the church who have established businesses and need small support to expand their business operations.

    Odetayo added that the church is also providing one Kilowat of solar inverter powered electricity for the Bode Thomas Police Station in its efforts to combat crime. The community Primary School in Muritala Animasaun area in Surulere will also be a major beneficiary of the church with a borehole facility to provide water for the school community.

    He also said the church will also embark on the distribution of food stuff items and medical outreach to Ilasa community as part of the anniversary celebration.

  • ‘I see new Nigeria emerging soon’

    ‘I see new Nigeria emerging soon’

    As Nigeria celebrated its 62nd independence recently with so much hope and optimism, an evangelist and author of 50 books, Senior Pastor, Born Free International Ministry, Badore Ajah, Lagos, Pastor Phillip Osung, spoke on the state of the nation and God’s mind about the current administration and Nigeria’s 2023 presidential election. Adeola Ogunlade was there.

    igeria is 62? how elated are you and what does the future portend for Nigeria

    Nigeria at 62 calls for celebration because God has taken us through a process and product will soon emerge. All that Nigeria has been going through in the last 16 years is actually a process and not the final product. I see a new Nigeria emerging soon. I will boldly say Nigeria is about to encounter a transformation. It is under this same government that is being criticized as the worse government that this new Nigeria will emerge, and it is just around the corner

    America did not get to where they are today after 200 years, is the process still on for a new Nigeria

    For me, a new Nigeria is around the corner.  A new Nigeria where we will experience debt-free, and the pricing of goods and services will be reduced drastically.  A new Nigeria that our forefathers dreamed of. This is what we have been praying for, the dreams we have been seeing, but we are right here by the new Nigeria. The process is not gradually coming to an end, the process has come to an end in just a few minutes, and months from now, we should be singing the new Nigeria song. A new Nigeria will see, weeping and killing will be gone.

    What is the role of the church in governance?

    The church should stop praying but start voting. We don’t pray leaders into power but by voting. Your physical voting will put them there. The church has always been backward when it comes to politics, thinking politics is a dirty game. We leave the dirty game for dirty people who put into power dirty leaders who in turn do dirty things that affect the church. In the end, the church suffers. I want to tell you that a greater number of poor people are in church.  Nigerians run to the church to seek refuge. I am a pastor; I pay rents for so many people. My weekly expenses are high. I have several people on my weekly allowance. I spent so much for church members and family members and sometimes it runs to #1 million or more. This is my personal assistant to people. When Nigeria had COVID-19 in 2020, l personally emptied my account for millions of people. I had made a payment to buy a car, but I asked for a return to help several millions of Nigerians. 500 to 1, 000 families were helped by me. the church should step into politics. Politics is there in heaven. God in heaven is a politician.

    How best should the church get involved in politics?

    Fear not, it is written in the scriptures that when the righteous are in power, the people rejoice. This means that God in his love wants the righteous in power, but the righteous are scared of death, they believe that when they step into politics, they will be killed. The bible says whosoever loves his life shall lose it and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal. The church should stop being intimidated by thugs on the street. I have been shot at severally times since 2016. I have gone through several assassination attempts, and God spared my life. I have no police security anymore.  The church should stop being scared of  the people outside the church.

    PFN had set up Directorate of Politics to galvanize Christian’s participation in governance, is that the way to go for the church?

    To the best of my knowledge, it is a good idea, but our problem is how many of these people are serious to do what God has sent them to do. A lot of people get there, get a share of their cake, and walk away. ln 2019, I turn my back on #100 million by a politicians even when the money was presented to me, I was broke, but I rejected it. If we can stand on the integrity of the gospel, we have achieved a lot. Setting up Directorate of Politics by PFN is not the solution but having like-minded people who believe in the integrity of the bible and refuses to compromise them is the way forward.

    Beyond 2023, Christians should start joining parties at the ward level.

    From the beginning, politics was never a thing of the world, politics was something of the church, and God is the father of politics. The Almighty President is God, if he can still be honest, we can take a cue from him as we go into politics. The church needs to be there. It is written in the Bible that in the last days, the mountain of the lord shall be exalted above every other mountain and the whole world shall run into it. The church is the only saving arm for the whole world these days but is it the entire church generally, no, just a few-minded Christians who are ready to stand on the integrity of the gospel? Like the Bible says in the book of Isaiah, I sought for a man who will stand in the gap, and I found nor.

    How achievable is this new Nigeria under the Buhari administration that is being criticized as the worst and with less than a year of its tenure in power?

    I will confidently say under this same government, Nigeria will experience a positive turnaround before the government hands over power to the next government in 2023. It is not this current government perse that will transform Nigeria. It is the work of the Almighty God. Nigeria is presently in a very tight corner but very close to the ultimate deliverance God has programmed for her. Nigeria’s deliverance is around the corner. I challenge Nigerians to take me at my word. Nigeria’s deliverance is not coming in 2023. It will happen before this current administration runs out.

     

    At 62 Nigeria is struggling under severe hardship. Where did the nation get it wrong?

    When a nation forsakes God, hardship is inevitable in that nation. When a nation leaves God. God too will leave that nation. Nigeria has left God who gave her independence and brought her this far 62 years as a nation. Nigeria got it wrong when the nation adopted cultures and practices that are taboo to her as a nation. Nigeria adopted a western lifestyle and allowed immoral practices like homosexuality, lesbianism, and incest among other sexual perversions that are taboo to us Africans. When strange gods are brought into a nation, the real God will keep silent and watch the strange gods destroying the nation. The strange gods sponsor errors and poor decisions in governance, instigate violence, terrorism, and insecurity in the polity and promote iniquities in the nation. That is why the Bible says, “There is an evil, which I have seen under the sun,” and it is this error that proceeds from the rulers the people elected to power. And the same people are the ones trekking while those they elected to power are riding on horses. That is a spirit of error and the reason the people are incapacitated. Empty people are in power while those who are loaded are never allowed in power. But God is coming to correct this error.

  • ‘How my daughter’s genetic disorder inspired a book’

    ‘How my daughter’s genetic disorder inspired a book’

    Dr . Babatunde Agboola has a Ph.D in Aerospace Engineering from Texas A&M University in the United States. The Principal Engineer, Lunar Mobility at one of the leading tire manufacturing companies in the world is also a Bible teacher. He spoke with Sunday Oguntola on how Christians can make sense of suffering. Excerpts:

    Your daughter’s medical condition is the springboard for the book Behold, I make all things new. Can you recount how it all started?

    My daughter’s medical condition inspired and prepared me to write the book. It all started in 2012 when she was conceived and was to be born in Texas, United States. I detailed the story in chapter 1 of the book. She was born with a rare genetic anomaly called chromosome 18-q deletion, which led to several developmental health issues. So, navigating the health challenges led my wife and me to ask fundamental questions as to why the God we believe is all good as the scriptures have taught will allow this in our lives. The book is detailed theology on the answers I got during those periods while asking God why he allowed such affliction with us. Find further details in chapter 1 of the book of how the book was born.

    The book provides a theological, biblical standpoint for evil and suffering. How can one make sense of the seeming complexities in life? 

    Life is indeed complex from conception to the completion of our years. The human biological system and the process that led to the start of every life up till birth is indeed complex and provide us with an illustration of the philosophy and thesis I put forth in the book that has helped me make sense of the complexities in life. I mean that God has put a mystery in childbirth to illustrate what he is doing that has made him allow all of life’s complexities, including specific pain, suffering, and affliction.

    So, all the complexity is a part of God’s process of birthing His children through His creation – this pleasant pang is the complexity we see as a paradox for all. In a nutshell, God is working all things together towards the goal of birthing his children and bringing many sons (male and female) to glory. I understood from scriptures as I asked the Lord questions that if God does it or allows it, it is because God has seen how it will lead to the birth of children for God or the maturing of His children towards sonship.

    It’s believed that bad things happen to good people. Do you share this sentiment?

    It depends. If we define good in the absolute, there is no one good but God. That is the fundamental premise of my book. However, if by “good” we mean goodness (which I define as acting in manners consistent with the only one who is good, i.e., God), then we can say that bad things do happen to “good” people. However, there is no one righteous, no not one. No one is (inherently) good except God alone. Read my book to see how I developed this thought in a very analytical, philosophical, and detailed manner. I was meticulous and tried to be thorough in how I laid out this paradigm in my book.

    You have cared for a daughter with special needs. What’s your message to parents with such kids?

    I can’t claim I understand each unique challenge because these special needs conditions are on a spectrum-all I can only say is that I can empathize with them since my wife and I have been raising special needs as well. I have to admit that it is not easy to raise children with special needs. I empathise with these parents and feel their pain, shame, and sometimes ostracization even by well-meaning people. I do not have all the answers for them because I am also continuously learning more and more about the specifics of God’s eternal plans and purposes and working on individual cases of having a child with special needs.

    However, I can say to the parents of such kids that they are not alone. They don’t have to give up, nor should they give in to despair and depression. There is a divine purpose in and beyond the pain they go through. I will counsel and suggest that they should ask the question if they believe that God has a purpose for everything (which I detailed in my book and also stated earlier that it is to bring many sons to glory) that they should seek his face as to what God is doing through that child. In our case, we found that God used our experience raising our daughter to prepare us to write the book “Behold, I Make All Things New!”

     In Nigeria, people with special children most likely attribute the conditions to spiritual afflictions or attacks. Isn’t that a possibility?

    Yes, it is a possibility. When we trace all human problems, it is traceable to the Devil. Sicknesses and the like are in the world because sin is in God’s creation. In heaven, there is no sin, so there is no sickness. And I do not mean mainly individual sins but that through Adam and Eve, sin entered the world as they yielded to the Devil’s lure. The Devil is evil, and he is the primary perpetrator of evil. So, the Devil does afflict and afflicting children with a fundamental health condition is within the bounds of the Devil’s evil. However, I do not subscribe to tagging special needs children as demon-possessed, just like not every sick person is demon-possessed. The problem comes when we call all special needs children “ogbanje” and “Emere.” These children need care and love from their parents and the church, even if we believe that the Devil afflicted them.

    How new can things get considering the mess in the world?

    Things can get brand new. A good example is how God has continuously made the worst of sinners new when they encounter the gospel. If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. That is God turning men whose imagination and thought are evil from birth. God supernaturally changes their heart and makes them newborn babies in His kingdom. God has been making the most messed up lives like Paul, the apostle, and turning them into new creations and even His agents of good. This same God is still working today doing the same. There is a message in the New birth experience that we regularly see when people get saved from sin. The new birth experiences of people are yelling at us that God has been, is, and will make all things new.

    However, the ultimate newness in all of God’s creation is when the New Heavens and the New earth proceed from God at the consummation of all things detailed in Revelations 21 and 22. There will be no more pain, sicknesses, sorrow, and death because the present states of things will become the former things and pass away. God will wipe away every tear. That time is coming, and it is now when God will wipe away your tears, and you will receive His Joy and worship Him from the depth of your heart that He is good and merciful and made beauty out of your ashes.

  • ELO PAUL EBUKA: Settling for Chiomzy was quite easy

    ELO PAUL EBUKA: Settling for Chiomzy was quite easy

    Elo Paul Ebuka aka Eloswag, BBNaija housemate of Season 7, is multi-talented. In this interview with Yetunde Oladeinde, he talks about life as a dancer, DJ, music artiste, digital marketing expert and some of the memorable moments in the house.

    BEFORE going to the house, I was working as a presenter with Views channel. I basically came back from work on the day the portal opened and I said let me just register. I registered and got the first email. I was happy, then I got the remaining emails and I was still happy until I got to the physical audition and also got to lockdown. I didn’t get to go on the first day; instead I went on the second day.

     On the second day, it was scary and I didn’t even know that I was in the house, I was thinking am I here or I am not here. I was actually happy and pleased to be a part of the house. Also, I didn’t get to see my housemates. I spent one week with my roommate in the house, then I saw different people. I didn’t know they were upstairs, level one and level two. It was actually really nice, a very nice experience. I had fun, ate a lot, dance and sang.

    What do you think made you different from others?

    I was basically being myself on a normal day. I don’t necessarily care about who likes or hate me. Don’t really care about the opinions of people because sometimes they tend to bring you down with their opinion.

    Tell us about your experience in the house after 72 days?

    I didn’t feel different; it was more like a fun time for me. I like going on adventures, experiencing new stuff and I think that was a different adventure. It was more like relating with new people in a space that you had never been before.

    I put in my all for the tasks being the head of house, knowing that if I don’t win I might go home or people may carry your name and say this guy, we don’t want him to go home because he is actually a very strong opponent. And coming out the media rounds were very nice. It’s a different lifestyle, I cannot go on the road now and go and buy ewa aganyin or something. Before the house my You tube had a lot of views and I have experienced the bashing, people just tend to talk. So, coming out of the house, I didn’t mind the comments. The experience so far is stressful; you have to go from one party to another party, wait till late in the night. But I must say it is an enjoyable task because this is what I actually want. I am still waiting for things to fall in place and it is actually getting to that point.

    Let’s talk about your relationship with female fans?

    Settling for Chiomzy was quite easy for me. That is actually who I resonate with and who I like. Meanwhile Phyna is my friend, my close pal. I didn’t see myself trying to play a woman in the house, all because it was a game. I have a mum, so I know what it feels like. I know my mum’s pain and I was not going to try to do that on live television or do that to another woman in the House.

    Were the other females jealous that you settled for Chiomzy?

    If they were, I never really noticed. They didn’t know if I and Chiomzy were fighting or if we were at peace. They just kept wondering what is wrong with this two.

    Now that you are out of the house what plans do you have?

    We are still on that route. Love does not happen in a day, so we are taking it step by step, baby steps basically. It gave me more recognition. Now, people know about my brand. They know what I am known for basically, so coming out of the house people started saying so he could dance and I was wondering if they didn’t see me dancing before. He could sing and I was like what is happening. I still see videos of me singing and dancing, so why are people saying this. So, the recognition and knowing the brand is good. It is actually a great cap on my opportunity; people would know the brand more and resonate with.

    Which of the talents do you think would make more money for you?

    All of them. Everything is in my body. I am multi talented but I would say singing basically. For me, dancing is a hobby. I actually dancing and posting on You Tube. That is a plus but you have to boost the music for people to actually get it, distribute, promote it and more.

    What were the challenges for BBN level 7 wasn’t as popular as the previous editions?

    I think it was one of the most stressful Season, the season that had the most content because by the first and second week we were already making waves, people had a lot to talk about, fights, arguments, parties, dance and others. There was plenty content but not sure of how far it will go. But it went far; it was actually a bulky Season.

    Tell us about the things you share in common with your mum and what she means to you?

    My mum is my best friend. She is my whole life basically and I have family. There is this special connection you have with mothers and she is my confidante. I can cry with my mum, consult with her, we fight and the next seconds we are already happy together. My mum gives me food, makes me happy, clothes me and always pushing me to do more. Even before I got a job last year, she pushes me to do stuff. I did four years in Ghana, Wisconsin University and it was my mum’s doing. We are not poor but my mum still had to push because she is a single mum.

    What makes today’s event significant?

    We are at Park Inn by Radisson and today is my All White Pool party. 80 per cent of the House mates are coming and it is going to be a loving night. It is going to be exciting and I can’t wait to see Phyna and everyone.

    Tell us about the next steps, what should we expect from you?

    I am ready to work. I have started pushing and pitching to brands. I am here to push my brands also with a lot of content coming from me. I was a digital marketer before going to the house, before I started presenting. Again, I am multi talented and I have so many things that I am working on. If one fails, then I move to the next and to other exploring different possibilities. In terms of my talent, I am a DJ, dancer, musician, presenter, videographer and more.

    Were you surprised when you were evicted from the house?

    No. I actually saw it coming. When it was time for the eviction, before coming to the house I did my research. I watched Angel and Pere last year was also fake evicted and were going home. I actually already knew but wanted to flow with them. They had these conspiracy theories and while reading it out, I said we are going home. I couldn’t tell them directly, so they won’t say he is being negative but I already knew.

    What was the strategy you used in the house that didn’t work out for you?

    I don’t think I had a strategy per say. I just wanted to be real and win HOH (Head of House). Once I win HOH, I stand a chance to stay till the next week and also save somebody. So, that was it for me basically.

    Tell us about the people you admire or look up to?

    I look up to Ebuka, Whizkid and videographers like Unlimited Early. There is a whole lot more.

    Are you thinking of marriage soon?

    I actually want to get married and have kids. At some point, I felt marriage is scary but for sure I want to have kids.

    Tell us about your most challenging time in the house?

    The merger. When we were merged, it was difficult to understand how the game play was going to be now. At some point, we felt like we were level one and given HOH, we had the power to evict people but then when we merge we were like what is going to happen. As we merged people now started relating more with level two people. I was the only one that was HOH in the house twice.

    Was there a particular moment in the house?

    When we had the last act that I played. I haven’t won a single task in a long while and I felt like I had to win this particular one. That particular task was very memorable, other events like having the parties on Thursday and Saturday. Also winning a particular hedger under Chiomzy’s activity. During my own reign, they didn’t interest and I had to really shout. I was losing my voice a lot in the house.  So, when we won that particular one I was really happy.

    Did it occur to you that Phyna would win?

    Yes, I actually saw it coming; either Phyna or Bryan would win. I said it in the house .I just had to leave the room .Basically, it turned out that I was right.

     Also Cheesy and Rachel were fake housemates. I said it on the dining table and I looked them in the eyes and they were just quiet.

    Tell us about your sense of style?

    I like Urbane dressing, corporate dressing too. I Iike to look good basically, clothes, shoes, glasses, wrist watch and rings. I just like to look good and classy.