The Nation Newspaper

Category: Sunday magazine

  • No scripture prohibits tattoo – Pastor Kingsley Okonkwo

    No scripture prohibits tattoo – Pastor Kingsley Okonkwo

    Founder of the David Christian Centre, Pastor Kingsley Okonkwo, has defended the decision to get a tattoo, saying there’s no scripture that prohibits Christians from having tattoos.

    His tattoo, “3:16”, written in Roman Numerals, sparked controversy with some citing Leviticus 19:28.

    Okonkwo, in an interview on News Central, argued that critics should provide scriptural or scientific proof to back their claims, questioning why tattoos are deemed bad without reason.

    He also pointed out hypocrisy, noting that some critics wear makeup and do eyebrow tattoos, which he considers a form of tattoo.

    The pastor emphasised that Christians should focus on knowing Christ and God’s word rather than imposing personal preferences on others. 

     “There’s no scripture that says a child of God cannot have tattoo. So, people are (just) doing personal preference, or what the Holy Spirit told them, or their church’s preferences. They want to impose this on other people, and that’s not how this works. Everyone needs to know Christ and the word of God.

    “Somebody needs to sit me down and say tattoos are bad because if somebody draws ink on their body, their brain goes bad; if somebody draws ink on their body, their character suddenly goes bad. They must give me scriptural or scientific proof, or something to back this up.

    “Nobody can tell me why tattoo is bad. It’s just bad because… no reason. This kind of thinking is saddening for me because how is Africa going to catch up with development if we are still thinking ‘oh, somebody wore jeans and went to rob, so jeans are now bad. Pastor cannot wear jeans because last week somebody wore jeans and went to rob a bank’. What are we talking about? So, I don’t see the basis.”

    Okonkwo also stated that while tattoos may be associated with bad people, he could name 10 good people with tattoos.

    “It’s the same reason why some people don’t want to go into politics. They say politics is for bad people. So, we have left it for the people we think are dirty. So, who is going to go there? That has been the mindset of the church. We avoid everything that looks bad, and then we complain,” he said.

    In a TikTok video, Okonkwo descended on critics of his decision, reminding them of the questionable things they also do.

    He said: “Today I’m seeing Christian girls buying human hair and wearing it to church, and they are typing on tattoo while wearing another human being’s hair.

    “You don’t know the origin of Christianity in Nigeria. Go and ask the older people who are sincere, they will tell you that even your makeup was a sin just a few years ago… was sacrilege, taboo, evil.

    “Today, I see people do eyebrow. You don’t know that eyebrow is tattoo? Are you not painting? If you are painting eyebrows, it is tattoo. Some people even do microblading. Is it not tattoo? It’s a form of tattoo.

    Read Also: Netizens react as Pastor Kingsley Okonkwo gets tattoo

    “Do you know that there was a time, if you didn’t tie a scarf, you couldn’t go to church. Some of you didn’t know this. Who fought for that liberty you enjoy?

    “There were times you couldn’t wear earrings, such that once you gave your life to Jesus, you threw away your earrings and all your jewellery. Some of you didn’t know these things, but today you are typing. I pity the level of ignorance you are carrying,

    “There were times you couldn’t wear jeans in this body of Christ. I was here when you couldn’t wear jeans. Do you wear jeans? Oh, you are leading many astray.

    “Some people are saying tattoo is leading people astray. I say jeans were leading people astray a few years ago, today we are wearing them. Do you wear jeans? Ungodly garment.”

  • PFN set to engage Lagos communities on effective governance 

    PFN set to engage Lagos communities on effective governance 

    In a move widely described as a watershed in faith–governance engagement, the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Lagos State Chapter, has launched a strategic, statewide collaboration to promote accountable leadership, ethical governance, and social development across Lagos.

    The initiative, spearheaded by PFN Lagos State Chairman, Pastor Yemi Davids, alongside the Director of Politics and Intergovernmental Affairs, Dr. Akin Akinpelu, signals a bold and intentional repositioning of the church’s role in public life—from moral commentary to constructive partnership.

    Covering all 20 Local Government Areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas, the engagement underscores PFN’s resolve to work directly with grassroots institutions.

    Explaining the vision, Dr. Akin Akinpelu noted that the statewide tour is “transformational, not ceremonial.” 

    He stated that under Pastor David’s leadership, PFN Lagos is being reimagined as a credible bridge between faith-based values and civic administration, with a focus on ethical leadership, community responsibility, and good governance.

    “At the heart of the initiative is the New Dawn Agenda 2025, a strategic framework designed to deepen PFN’s relevance and impact in Lagos State”.

    He posited that the agenda rests on five pillars—reconciliation, relevance, revival, resources, and re-envisioning—aimed at fostering unity among churches, renewing spiritual vitality among leaders, ensuring sustainable resourcing for community impact, and reinforcing accountability, integrity, and character in leadership.

    Read Also: Christmas: PFN commends Governor Lawal over inclusive leadership 

    He stressed that the church must be recognized as a key stakeholder in nation-building, adding that direct engagement with local government leadership would help promote integrity, service, and excellence in public office, while encouraging mutual accountability between faith leaders and administrators.

    The six-week engagement features structured meetings with Local Government Chairmen, Secretaries to Local Governments, and other stakeholders. During these sessions, PFN will presents its mandate, advocates godly and ethical leadership, and identifies practical areas for collaboration—particularly in welfare delivery, education, peace-building, and social cohesion.

    Akinpelu further opined that the initiative was timely and strategic, especially as grassroots governance increasingly shapes citizens’ daily experiences. By engaging leadership at the closest level to the people, PFN aims to ensure that faith perspectives are constructively represented where policy meets lived reality.

    Akinpelu added that as PFN Lagos intentionally moves “from the church room to the boardroom and the council hall,” the fellowship reinforces its commitment to catalysing positive social change. 

    “The collaboration is expected to deepen church–government relations, open new advocacy channels, and contribute to a more just, accountable, and progressive Lagos State.

  • NAHCON intensifies early preparations for hitch-free Hajj

    NAHCON intensifies early preparations for hitch-free Hajj

    The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has reaffirmed its commitment to early, orderly, and timely preparations for this year’s Hajj.

    It said this would ensure a seamless experience for Nigerian pilgrims.

    NAHCON’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman, gave the assurance while outlining the commission’s strategic plans anchored on early planning, effective institutional coordination and strict compliance with established procedures.

    Usman said the commission’s actions are fully aligned with the policy direction of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises the welfare and spiritual well-being of Nigerians.

    The NAHCON chairman explained that the commission operates under the supervision of Vice President Kashim Shettima, with a clear emphasis on the timely completion of all critical Hajj preparatory activities.

    According to him, priority attention is currently being given to the early conclusion of accommodation arrangements for state pilgrims in Makkah, in line with Saudi Arabian regulatory timelines.

    To further ensure early preparations, the NAHCON chairman said he had authorised the deployment of a high-level executive delegation to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

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    The delegation, he said, was mandated to provide executive oversight, finalise and take over all pending accommodation arrangements in Makkah, and ensure full compliance with Saudi regulations to avert operational delays.

    The delegation includes the Commissioner for Planning, Research, Statistics, Information and Library Services, Prof. Abubakar Yagawal; the board member representing the Northwest Zone, Sheikh Muhammad Bin Uthman; his Southwest and Southeast counterparts, Dr. Tajudeen Oladejo and Hajiya Aishat Obi Ahmed, and the Secretary of the commission, Dr. Mustapha Mohammed Ali.

    Usman explained that while the delegation carried out its assignment in Saudi Arabia, he would remain in Nigeria to receive the Saudi Arabian Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah, who is expected to visit the country later this month.

    According to him, NAHCON has activated robust internal governance, coordination and oversight mechanisms to ensure accountability, procedural compliance and effective execution of all preparatory activities.

    This, the chairman said, includes sustained engagement with board members, senior management, service providers and relevant Saudi authorities to ensure adherence to approved timelines and regulations.

    He assured stakeholders and intending pilgrims that the commission remained focused on delivering an exceptional and hitch-free Hajj in line with international best practices.

    Usman added that NAHCON would continue to provide official updates through its established communication channels as preparations for the 2026 Hajj progress.

  • Abiara: insecurity in Nigeria,globally sign of end time

    Abiara: insecurity in Nigeria,globally sign of end time

    Prophet Samuel Kayode Abiara, former General Evangelist of Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), has said the insecurity in Nigeria and other parts of the world is a sign of the end of time.

    The cleric, who made this known during a church sermon, said: ‘’The only reason this situation is intense globally is because the end of time is getting nearer, as the scriptures have revealed that events like this will herald the second coming of Jesus Christ.’’

    He urged Nigerians and the whole world to be prayerful and be of good cheer, as they shall overcome.

    According to him, Nigerian situation is not peculiar, as there is no government since the creation of the earth that has not experienced what Nigeria is going through.

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    He said: “During the time of Noah, God had to even destroy the world with water because of the wickedness of men. God also destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah because of wickedness.

    ”There is nothing new under the sun. Countries like America, United Kingdom, Iran have also been victims of terrorists and they overcame. Nigerians should not be scared, they will also overcome.

    ”Saul, who later became Paul, even had licence to kill and persecute Christians. He was arrested and convicted by God. We also need to pray as a nation for God to convert those perpetuating evil and wickedness in Nigeria.”

    Prophet Abiara promised to continue to pray for the nation, ‘’as this is the only home I know. By the grace of God, Nigeria will not divide.

  • Tinubu, Akume,  Osa-Oni, others pay final respect to  Bishop Adegbite’s late father 

    Tinubu, Akume,  Osa-Oni, others pay final respect to  Bishop Adegbite’s late father 

    It was a season of joy, solemn reflection, and heartfelt thanksgiving as friends, family members, church leaders, and government officials from across Nigeria gathered in Fiditi, Oyo State, for the burial ceremony of Pa Moses Adediran Adegbite.

    Pa Adegbite, who passed away peacefully on November 1, 2025, in his hometown of Fiditi, was laid to rest amid prayers, tributes, and gratitude for a life widely described as impactful and exemplary. 

    The burial service, held at Fiditi Grammar School, followed a well-attended wake-keep at his residence on Thursday, drawing national attention to the agrarian community.

    The ceremony attracted an array of dignitaries from government, the church, and civil society. Among them were the Minister of Power, Senator Adebayo Adelabu, and the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, who led a federal delegation on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    Read Also: Minister urges universities to drive Tinubu’s economic agenda

    Also present were representatives of the Lagos State Government, including the Special Adviser on Christian Matters, Rev. Bukola Adeleke; the National President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Bishop Francis Wale Oke; the Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence Prelate Oliver Ali Aba; the Presiding Archbishop of Vineyard Christian Ministry, Archbishop John Osa-Oni; the Iya Aladura General Worldwide, Dr. Oluwaseye Yomi-Sholoye; the Presiding Bishop of World Evangelism Bible Church, Bishop Samson Ayorinde; and former Inspector-General of Police, Sir Mike Okiro, among others.

    Traditional rulers, senior clergy across denominations, and community leaders also attended in large numbers, reflecting the deep respect Pa Adegbite commanded across religious, social, and institutional lines.

    Notable among the children of the late patriarch is Bishop (Prof.) Stephen Tunde Victor Adegbite, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Lagos State Chapter, Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission, and Chaplain to the Presidential Villa, Aso Rock.

    Pa Adegbite’s life was described as historic within the Methodist Church in Nigeria, having raised two bishops, with a third reportedly in the making, a rare legacy that resonated throughout the service.

    Born into modest circumstances, Pa Adegbite began his working life as a pupil teacher before joining the Oyo State Fire Service, where he served with dedication. After retirement, he ventured into private practice and remained actively engaged in community development. 

    He was widely regarded as a disciplinarian, philanthropist, community builder, and a man of deep Christian faith.

    Speaking on behalf of President Tinubu, Senator Adelabu conveyed the President’s condolences to the Adegbite family and the people of Fiditi, describing the late patriarch as a man who “came, saw, and conquered.”

    He said Pa Adegbite’s life was a reminder that every individual has a divine purpose, adding that his legacy was worthy of emulation by his family, community, and the nation.

    Condolence messages were received from across the country, including letters from the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume; Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; and several federal ministers and top government officials. All described Pa Adegbite as a man of faith, integrity, and service.

    In his homily, Prelate Oliver Ali Aba reminded the congregation of the fleeting nature of life, urging believers to live with purpose and spiritual preparedness. He noted that material possessions and titles do not define the true value of life, stressing the need for faith, service, and readiness for eternity.

    Describing Pa Adegbite as a man who lived intentionally, the Prelate said his legacy would endure through the values he instilled in his family and community. He called on Nigerians to embrace unity, prayer, and collective responsibility in building the nation.

    Archbishop John Osa-Oni, in his remarks, described the large turnout of ministers of God as a fitting tribute to a life of impact. He urged church leaders and professionals to remember their roots and give back meaningfully to their communities, while encouraging the Adegbite family to remain united.

    Speaking to journalists, Bishop Stephen Adegbite described his father as a man of resilience, discipline, and contentment. He recalled how Pa Adegbite rode a motorcycle for decades between Fiditi and Ibadan, teaching his children enduring lessons about simplicity and gratitude.

    He added that the late patriarch was deeply loved for his generosity, peaceful disposition, and devotion to Christ. 

    In his honour, the family has embarked on several legacy projects, including the construction of an adult school, a headmistress’ office, and the Bishop’s Court for the Third Methodist Church Circuit, which has been completed and handed over.

    The burial ceremony concluded with prayers and thanksgiving, celebrating a life that many described as fulfilled, impactful, and worthy of remembrance.

    “The court will be known as the Moses Adegbite Memorial Methodist Court, Fiditi” he announced, pledging continued support for the diocese, archdiocese, and conference, “as the Lord lives.”

    Also speaking, Bishop Bamidele Ibikunle, a childhood friend of Bishop Adegbite, described Pa Adegbite as a jovial, hardworking man who loved children beyond his biological family. “He taught us diligence and often reminded us that whatever a man sows, he will surely reap,” he said.

    A granddaughter, Omowonuola Adedoyin, gave an emotional tribute, recalling her grandfather as a loving companion who cherished his grandchildren deeply. “He served us with love and kindness,” she said. “He even kept my childhood photograph in his room and constantly reminded us to be kind-hearted.”

  • Banditry: Benue farmers flee ancestral farmlands, seek refuge in IDP camps

    Banditry: Benue farmers flee ancestral farmlands, seek refuge in IDP camps

    Food security has come under severe threats in some Benue communities, a region widely regarded as the food basket of Nigeria, due to renewed attacks on farmers by bandits.

    The Sankera geo-political bloc, comprising Ukum, Logo, and Katsina Ala local government areas in Benue North East Senatorial Zone, has been the epicenter of these attacks.

    Armed bandits have carried out numerous deadly attacks, killing hapless peasant farmers, destroying crops, and setting houses ablaze.

    In January 2026 alone, there were about 25 attacks in  Ukum, Logo, and Katsina Ala local government areas, predominantly affecting farmers.

    The attacks have affected preparations for the new farming season, leaving farmers in perpetual fear and forcing them to flee their ancestral farmland to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camps.

    There are fears that if the insecurity in the area is not contained, it will negatively impact food production, affecting not only Benue State but the entire nation.

    Farmers, who are mostly able-bodied young men and women, are now idle in IDP camps while their farmlands lie fallow. Children who should be in school are also living in those camps with their aged parents, leaving the affected areas with no one to engage in farming activities.

    A farmer in Chito, Azendeshi ward, Ukum Local Government Area, Uzenda Hur, warned that if the federal and state governments fail to protect farmers, there would be severe food scarcity in the new year.

    Uzenda Hur stated: “We farmers are supposed to be preparing the soil ahead of the new farming season, which will start with the first rain, but we are still in IDP camps. So, who will do the farming?”

    In Logo Local Government Area, the situation is even worse, especially in Gaambetiev settlements, which are close to River Benue and the farmers engage in all-year farming activities.

    Settlements in Tse Dzungwe, Tse Gbeleve ,Poovule, Anyibe and hundreds of other have been deserted .

    For example, in Tombo Ward, Gaambetiev, Logo Local Government Area, all the farmers in the hinterland have moved to Ayilamo, the ward headquarters, due to attacks by suspected herdsmen who have killed more than 30 persons, mostly farmers between December last year and now.

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    Tersoo Unande, a 55-year-old farmer with two wives and eight children, told our correspondent that suspected herdsmen have taken over their farmlands for more than 10 years.

    Unande said:

    “Since 2026 when herdsmen launched attacks on my settlement in Tse Dzungwe, Mbakorya, Mbaiwem, I have not gone back to my ancestral home.

    I had to look for a safe area for farming, because I have children and a wife to feed.”

    The worst scenario is that heavily armed herdsmen have turned his farm into their settlement, and it seems the security personnel are helpless.

    Unande appreciated the Inspector General of Police’s approval of a divisional police office in Ayilamo, Tombo, and increased police personnel and operational vehicles; a step likely to improve the security situation.

    However, Unande urged the government and security agencies to rework their mode of operation to safeguard farmers,. Otherwise, no one will farm, and there will be no food this year.

    In Katsina Ala Local Government area, the insecurity situation is not getting better either, with a series of attacks taking place since the new year began.

    The Council Chairmen of Katsina Ala and Ukum local governments have been effective in mobilising security personnel to secure their people and communities.

    Hon. Shaku Justice and Hon. Jonathan Modi said they had been able to mobilise soldiers to secure the lives of farmers and rural  communities.

    Hon. Modi stated: “Before now, most of the farmers, especially those on the border, were sacked by suspected armed herdsmen. But as a local government council, we have been able to launch counter-attacks or dialogue with the bandits to recover the settlements.”

    Katsina Ala Local Government Area is also home to large yam-producing communities, including food, and other  crops generally.

    However, renewed attacks and killings have laid waste whatever achievements the Council Chairman might have recorded in the area of security.

    But the local government authorities said they are doing every thing possible to change the situation for better so  that farmers can return to their farming bussiness.

    A traditional ruler, Chief Torbee Najir, told our correspondent that the only solution to the persistent attacks and killing of farmers is to deploy more soldiers to food-producing settlements and establish permanent military barracks and formations.

    Chief Najir warned: “If urgent steps are not taken, one day, the entire nation will sleep hungry because there will be no food to eat.”

    The Chief Press Secretary to the Benue State Governor, Sir Tersoo Kula, told The Nation that it is the administration of Governor Hyacinth Alia that has put an end to the impunity of suspected herdsmen attacks on defenceless Benue farmers.

    Kula said: “Before now, there were series of killings and the armed herdsmen operated with impunity.

    “But Governor Hyacinth Alia, through deliberate partnership with security agencies, has put a stop to wanton destruction of rural settlements and killing of farmers, and will continue to protect every Benue citizen across the 23 local government areas of the state.”

  • NAFDAC resumes sachet alcohol ban enforcement despite protests

    NAFDAC resumes sachet alcohol ban enforcement despite protests

    The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has resumed its enforcement to ban  the production and sale of alcoholic beverages in sachets and small-volume PET/glass bottles (below 200ml), in line with the recent directive of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    According to the DG of the Agency, Professor Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye, “This decisive action, ordered by the Nigerian Senate and backed by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, underscores the Agency’s statutory mandate to safeguard public health and protect vulnerable populations, particularly children, adolescents, and young adults, from the harmful use of alcohol.

    “The proliferation of high-alcohol-content beverages in sachets and small containers less than 200 ml has made such products easily accessible, affordable, and concealable, leading to widespread misuse and resultant addiction among minors and some commercial drivers”.

    According to her, “this public health menace has been linked to increased incidences of domestic violence, road accidents, school dropouts, and social vices across communities”.

    In a statement credited to the DG of the Agency, she said, “Placing a label to read ‘not for children’ on the sachets and the small containers will not work. It cannot be enforced because of the peculiarity of the society.  Many parents don’t know their children take alcohol in sachets because the pack size can be easily concealed and the sachet is cheap”.

    Narrating the history of six years of moratorium given to manufacturers to reconfigure their product lines, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye said, “In December 2018, NAFDAC, the Federal Ministry of Health, and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Association of Food, Beverage and Tobacco Employers (AFBTE) and the Distillers and Blenders Association of Nigeria (DIBAN) to phase out sachet and small-volume alcohol packaging by January 31, 2024”.

    The moratorium was later extended to December 2025 to allow industry operators to exhaust old stock and reconfigure production lines, she stated.

    NAFDAC emphasises that the current Senate resolution aligns with the spirit and letter of that agreement and with Nigeria’s commitment to the World Health Assembly Global Strategy Resolution to reduce the harmful use of alcohol (WHA63.13, 2010), to which Nigeria is a signatory since 2010. The Resolution aims to protect vulnerable populations such as children and youth.          

    The ban on sachet packaging and PET bottles less than 200 ml is to make it difficult for children to access alcohol and its consumption.

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    NAFDAC approves alcohol in bigger pack sizes

    The small size of the sachet makes it easier for minors to conceal from parents and teachers.  Reports from schools show that children conceal the sachets. A teacher recently reported that a student said he could not take an exam without taking a sachet of alcohol. 

    Reacting to the allegations that the Agency sealed some companies that produce alcohol, the DG stressed that “NAFDAC did not close down any company that makes alcohol. The Agency only bans alcohol in sachets and small containers less than 200ml”.

    “This ban is not punitive; it is protective. It is aimed at safeguarding the health and future of our children and youth by not allowing alcohol in small pack sizes. The decision is rooted in scientific evidence and public health considerations. We cannot continue to sacrifice the well-being of Nigerians for economic gain. The health of a nation is its true wealth.”

    NAFDAC reiterates that only two packages of alcoholic beverages are affected by this regulation—spirit drinks packaged in sachets and small-volume PET/glass bottles below 200ml.

    The Agency calls on all stakeholders, including manufacturers, distributors, and retailers, to comply fully with the phase-out deadline, as no further extension will be entertained beyond December 2025.

    The Agency will continue to work collaboratively with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), and the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to implement nationwide sensitisation campaigns on the health and social dangers associated with alcohol misuse.

    “NAFDAC remains resolute in its mission to ensure that only safe, wholesome, and properly regulated products are available to Nigerians,” stressed the DG.

    Meanwhile, employees of companies producing sachet alcohol, alongside some civil society organisations, have hinted at the possibility of a nationwide protest if the ban on sachet alcohol beverages and PET bottles below 200ml is not reversed.

    The employees made this known on Monday when they stormed the Lagos office of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control along the Oshodi-Apapa Expressway to protest the ban, three days after their last demonstration.

    Last week, employees under the aegis of the Food, Beverages, and Tobacco Senior Staff Association and the National Union of Food, Beverages, and Tobacco Employees besieged the NAFDAC office to express their grievances over disruptions to their companies’ operations.

    They warned that no fewer than five million Nigerians would be affected, directly and indirectly, by the ban.

    Following last week’s protest, the Director-General of NAFDAC  engaged with the leaders of the protesters. However, Adeyeye insisted that the ban would remain until there was a change in legislation.

    At the protest on Monday, employees under the aegis of FOBTOB and NUFBTE, joined by members of the Coalition for the Protection of Consumers’ Rights, were seen carrying placards and singing solidarity songs.

    Speaking with journalists, the National President of FOBTOB, Oyibo Jimoh, said engagements with the House of Representatives were aimed at developing a national alcohol policy that would cater to the interests of all stakeholders without an outright ban.

  • Patjeda Group advocates strategic CSR for sustainable development

    Patjeda Group advocates strategic CSR for sustainable development

    The Group Managing Director of Patjeda Group, Chief (Mrs) Joy Ehiagwina Joy Patrick, has called for a strategic, structured and value-driven approach to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) as a tool for driving sustainable national development in Nigeria.

    She made the call during a policy dialogue on Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainable National Development in Nigeria, held in Lagos, stressing that CSR must go beyond charity and token gestures to become a people-centred development instrument that complements government efforts.

    Ejedawe said Nigeria’s growing socio-economic challenges, including youth unemployment, education gaps, food insecurity and infrastructure deficits, require stronger collaboration between government, the private sector and civil society.

    “CSR should not be seen as charity, but as a structured, impact-driven development tool capable of strengthening communities, de-risking business environments and building long-term social capital,” she said.

    She explained that Patjeda Group, a Nigerian-owned conglomerate with interests in transportation and logistics, hospitality, oil and gas, security support services, retail, agriculture and education, has institutionalised its CSR programmes through the Patrick Ejedawe Empowerment Foundation and the Heart of Gold Support & Care Initiative.

    According to her, the company’s CSR focus areas include entrepreneurship development, education support, food security and community infrastructure.

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    She disclosed that over the past two years, no fewer than 50 individuals have been empowered to start and grow small businesses, while scholarships and educational assistance have been provided to economically disadvantaged students.

    Ejedawe added that the Group’s Food Bank Programme supports vulnerable households, while its intervention on the Uromi axis of the Agbor–Auchi Expressway recently improved road conditions and boosted economic activities in the area.

    She further announced that the company plans to double its CSR interventions in 2026, including expanding its Back2School initiative to reach 500 pupils, empowering at least 50 beneficiaries under the Empower to Bloom programme, and sustaining its Feed the Widow initiative in Ikeja.

    Ejedawe urged corporate organisations to adopt long-term CSR models aligned with national priorities, while calling on government to provide enabling policies and incentives that encourage sustainable private sector participation in social development.

    She said, “At Patjeda Group, success is not measured solely by profit, but by lives empowered, communities strengthened and opportunities created.”

  • Terra building community, beyond market share’

    Terra building community, beyond market share’

    For brands, building a sense of community and connection with consumers takes focused effort. It must be earned over time. Terra’s approach in 2025 reflects this understanding, as the brand moved beyond conventional marketing to building genuine connections with consumers.

    More than just competing for shelf space or market share, Terra has made a deliberate shift toward building a community rooted in shared experiences, joy, education, and everyday relevance.

    Over the years, Terra’s consumer engagement has gone beyond traditional advertising.

    The brand has focused on showing up where its consumers already are – online, in kitchens, in conversations about food, during moments of joy, and togetherness. One of the strongest expressions of this commitment was Terra’s partnership with Big Brother Naija (BBN). Rather than simply sponsoring the show, Terra leaned into moments that encouraged shared experiences such as mealtimes, game night, viewers engagement, and social media conversations that brought people together over food.

    Another major pillar of Terra’s community-building efforts has been the Unwrap Joy Squad activities.

    Designed as a people-first initiative, the Unwrap Joy Squad brought Terra closer to consumers through on-ground activations, surprise moments, and genuine interactions. These were intentional touchpoints that celebrated everyday Nigerians and the small joys that food brings into their lives. By focusing on joy as an emotional connector, Terra reinforced its role as not just a seasoning brand, but a part of daily living.

    Digital food communities have also played a central role in Terra’ strategy. Through recipes, cooking videos, and relatable food content, the brand has consistently empowered consumers with knowledge and inspiration. From quick weekday meals to festive cooking ideas, Terra’s content has encouraged experimentation, confidence, and creativity in the kitchen. This approach has helped foster an active community where consumers don’t just watch content but engage, recreate, and share their own experiences.

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    According to Probal Bhattacharya, Chief Marketing Officer at TGI Group, “At Terra, we believe strong brands are built by creating value beyond the product. When you invest in people, culture, and shared experiences, you build trust and loyalty that no discount or promotion can buy. Our goal is to be present in meaningful moments, not just purchase moments.”

    Terra has demonstrated that market leadership is not just about numbers alone, but about connecting and building a community with consumers where it matters most. In building communities around food, joy, and shared experiences, Terra is setting a new standard for how Nigerian brands can grow, not just bigger, but closer to the people they serve.

    Terra Seasoning Cube is made up of wholesome, carefully sourced essential ingredients specially designed to meet the discerning Nigerian consumers’ needs in every meal, offering great taste, flavour, and aroma for that unique cuisine experience.

    Every meal cooked with Terra guarantees an enjoyable meal and a rich signature homemade taste experience.

    Available in Beef, Chicken, and Jollof flavours, in various consumer-friendly pack sizes nationwide.

  • Bible Society of Nigeria unveils activities to mark 60th anniversary

    Bible Society of Nigeria unveils activities to mark 60th anniversary

    The Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN) has announced a lineup of programmes to commemorate its 60th anniversary, celebrating six decades of expanding access to the Scriptures in multiple Nigerian languages and formats.

    The announcement was made on Saturday, January 24, 2026, by BSN General Secretary and Chief Executive Officer, Pastor Samuel Sanusi, during a press briefing in Lagos.

    Sanusi expressed appreciation to media organisations and key stakeholders for their sustained support, reiterating that the Society’s mandate remains focused on Bible translation, publication, distribution, and promotion, alongside programmes designed to deepen engagement with the Word of God.

    Founded on February 8, 1966, BSN is a member of the United Bible Societies, a global network of 155 national Bible societies operating across more than 200 countries and territories. 

    Sanusi disclosed that the organisation is currently executing 11 Bible translation and revision projects at different stages of completion.

    He announced the theme of the anniversary as “Celebrating Impact and Building a Legacy of Hope,” with week-long activities scheduled to begin on Monday, February 2, 2026.

    The celebrations will commence with a Bible exhibition at the Lagos Bible Guest House, Palmgrove Estate, Ilupeju, showcasing rare and historic materials, including handwritten Bible manuscripts, editions in various Nigerian languages, and the Legacy Bible—a five-language edition weighing 15.4kg.

    On February 3, BSN will organise a Bible Walk from the National Stadium, Surulere, to Obanikoro. 

    The following day, February 4, the Society will host partners to an appreciation dinner, which will also feature the dedication of a second studio in Ibadan for the Deaf Bible Translation Project.

    Foreign delegates are expected to arrive on February 5 for a CEOs’ Conference aligned with the anniversary programme. 

    The Founder’s Day Lecture and Awards will hold on February 6, chaired by former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, with Pastor Poju Oyemade, Senior Pastor of The Covenant Nations, as guest speaker. 

    The anniversary celebrations will conclude with a thanksgiving service at The Covenant Nations on Sunday, February 8, 2026.

    Sanusi also revealed that BSN has produced a 13-episode documentary chronicling its six-decade journey, set to air on Dove TV from the last weekend of January or early February. 

    A commemorative publication titled “Six Decades of Impact: Transmitting the WORD, Transforming Lives” will also be launched during the anniversary period.

    Highlighting key milestones, Sanusi described the Nigerian Sign Language Bible Project as a landmark initiative aimed at improving Scripture access for the deaf community. 

    He noted that Nigeria became the first African country to establish a dedicated centre for Sign Language Bible translation in 2017.

    Between 2014 and 2023, BSN translated and produced 222 Chronological Bible Stories in Nigerian Sign Language. 

    The full New Testament translation began in October 2023 with the Book of Matthew, which has since been completed. Sanusi disclosed that more than ₦105.3 million was spent on the project between 2023 and 2024, adding that the Society hopes to complete the full Nigerian Sign Language Bible within 20 years, depending on funding availability.

    On Bible distribution, he revealed that BSN distributed over 7.87 million copies of assorted Bibles nationwide in the last five years. He said the organisation has remained Africa’s leading Bible distributor for over two decades, accounting for 21.1 per cent of all full Bibles distributed across the continent in 2024. 

    He added that BSN also leads globally in English Bible distribution and spends an average of ₦10 million annually on free Bible distribution to underserved communities.

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    Sanusi further highlighted several outreach and impact programmes run by the Society, including Marathon Bible Reading, school Bible competitions, competitions for the deaf and visually impaired, NYSC Essay Competitions, Trauma Healing initiatives, and the Macedonian Call project. 

    He said the Macedonian Call programme has supported more than 50,000 internally displaced persons and vulnerable individuals since 2018, with plans to invest over ₦306 million in the project in 2026, subject to funding.

    In a segment titled “State of the Nation,” Sanusi urged the Federal Government to reconsider its decision to phase out indigenous languages as a medium of instruction in schools. 

    He warned that sidelining local languages in favour of English could threaten Nigeria’s cultural identity, stressing that the extinction of a language equates to the erosion of a people’s heritage.

    “We should be proud of our languages. Language is part of our identity,” he said, urging parents and schools to continue teaching children their mother tongues.

    He concluded by inviting Nigerians to join BSN in celebrating 60 years of God’s faithfulness, describing the Society’s survival and growth amid a challenging operating environment as a privilege worthy of gratitude.

    “Long live BSN, long live Nigeria,” Pastor Sanusi said, reaffirming BSN’s mission of *“making the WORD available.”*