The Nation Newspaper

Category: Sunday magazine

  • What FATF Grey List delisting, European Union’s thumbs up mean to Nigeria

    What FATF Grey List delisting, European Union’s thumbs up mean to Nigeria

    Nduka Chiejina (Assistant Editor), in this report examines the long term benefits and prospects that could accrue to Nigeria as a result of the global financial redemption from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) “Grey List,” and the European Union’s decision to delist the country from its high-risk third countries list.

    The global financial landscape is notoriously unforgiving toward jurisdictions perceived as weak links in the fight against illicit money flows. For over two years, Nigeria navigated the restrictive waters of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) “Grey List,” a designation that served as a persistent signal of “strategic deficiencies” in the nation’s anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing systems.

    However, a series of aggressive, top-down reforms have culminated in a dual victory: the country’s removal from the FATF Grey List in late 2025, followed by the European Union’s recent decision to delist Nigeria from its high-risk third countries list.

    The journey to this milestone began in February 2023. At that time, Nigeria was flagged for specific vulnerabilities, including supervisory gaps in financial institutions, a lack of transparency regarding the beneficial ownership of legal entities, and inadequate enforcement measures.

    The international community noted that while laws existed, the investigation and prosecution of money laundering cases remained limited, and the implementation of financial sanctions was only partial.

    These deficiencies created significant friction for Nigerian businesses, leading to higher borrowing costs and a “de-risking” trend where foreign banks became hesitant to facilitate transactions for their Nigerian counterparts.

    A Presidential mandate for reform

    Faced with the threat of potential blacklisting—a status that would have crippled the economy—President Bola Ahmed Tinubu placed the exit from the Grey List at the summit of his economic governance agenda. The administration’s response was characterised by a surge in legislative activity and inter-agency synergy. The enactment of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022 and the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022 provided the legal teeth necessary to bite purveyors of financial crimes.

    Apparently gladdened by the turn of events, an elated Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun described the recent delisting by the European Commission as a significant endorsement of this vision; a development he credited the achievement to the President’s “extraordinary leadership, unwavering political will and clear reform vision.”

    According to Mr. Edun, the administration ensured that anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) reforms became core elements of the national stability agenda.

    “The European Commission, in its assessment, concluded that Nigeria had strengthened the effectiveness of its AML/CFT regime and addressed identified technical and strategic gaps,” Mr. Edun noted.

    Besides, he observed that the development would “ease enhanced due diligence requirements for Nigerian individuals, businesses and financial institutions dealing with European counterparts, improve correspondent banking relationships, boost investor confidence and further integrate Nigeria into the global financial system.”

    Transparency as a shield

    In the view of analysts, central to the reforms’ success was the operationalisation of a public Beneficial Ownership Register under the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA). For years, shell companies had been used as veils for illicit actors to move funds undetected. By pulling back this curtain, the federal government provided law enforcement and global regulators with unprecedented visibility into who truly owns and controls corporate entities in Nigeria.

    Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, the Minister of State for Finance, played a pivotal role in coordinating these aspects with regulatory agencies. She noted that the reforms transformed the financial system from one of reactive measures to proactive transparency. “We didn’t just pass laws on paper. We ensured they were implemented in practice. We increased prosecutions of financial crimes and applied sanctions to institutions that failed to comply,” she said assuredly.

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    The Minister of State further elaborated on the impact of the Beneficial Ownership Register, calling it transformative for the nation’s integrity. “We now have unprecedented visibility into corporate ownership structures, making it significantly harder for illicit actors to hide behind shell companies and enhancing our ability to track suspicious financial flows,” Dr. Uzoka-Anite said.

    She added that this moment serves as proof that “Nigeria can reform, that we can meet international standards, and that we can deliver on our commitments.”

    The economic impact of delisting

    The practical implications of the European Union’s decision, contained in the Commission Delegated Regulation, are profound for the Nigerian private sector. When a country is on the high-risk list, every transaction originating from that jurisdiction is subjected to “enhanced due diligence.” This means longer waiting time, higher compliance fees, and often, the outright rejection of legitimate business deals by European banks and entities that may choose to err on the side of caution.

    However, with the delisting taking effect in early 2026, these barriers are set to fall. The Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) released a statement explaining that transactions involving Nigerian businesses will no longer be subjected to these typical high-risk measures. This shift is expected to “ease compliance burdens, support smoother cross-border financial flows, and enhance Nigeria’s attractiveness for trade, investment and financial partnerships with EU member States.”

    Expectedly, Hafsat Abubakar Bakari, the Chief Executive Officer of the NFIU, described the decision as a strong endorsement of the country’s collective reforms’ efforts. “Beyond the immediate economic benefits, this outcome strengthens international confidence in Nigeria’s financial system and underscores our standing as a cooperative and responsible participant in the global financial architecture,” she said matter-of-factly.

    Expatiating, Ms. Bakari noted that the NFIU has served as the central nervous system for these reforms, improving the quality of financial intelligence provided to investigative and prosecutorial authorities. She warned, however, that the victory must not lead to a relaxation of standards.

    “While we welcome this progress, it also places a clear responsibility on all stakeholders to sustain momentum, guard against complacency and continue strengthening our systems in response to evolving financial crime risks,” she added.

    A unified front for financial integrity

    Interestingly, a synergy of cooperation amongst interagency saddled with the responsibility of crime prevention and prosecution made this laudable feat achievable. Thus, it can be asserted that it was the collaboration among officials that made it work. As to be expected, the federal government lauded the roles played by the National Assembly, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the judiciary, and private sector operators. This united front allowed Nigeria to complete its FATF Action Plan in record time, moving from an August 2025 on-site visit to an official delisting in October of the same year.

    The European Commission’s assessment acknowledged that Nigeria had not only closed technical gaps but also fulfilled the operational commitments required to ensure a resilient financial system. For the global community, the message is clear: Nigeria is no longer a jurisdiction to be approached with suspicion, but a reliable partner in the global trade and investment arena.

    The renewed trust on the country by the comity of nations within the global financial ecosystem, it has been stressed, was well worth it.

    One of those who shares this sentiment is the Director of Information and Public Relations at the Ministry of Finance, Mohammed Manga, who noted that the removal from both the FATF and EU lists sends a “strong positive signal” that underscores the ongoing efforts to improve financial governance. By aligning with international standards, Nigeria has positioned its economy to attract the foreign direct investment necessary for sustainable growth.

    As the nation looks toward 2026, the focus shifts from exiting lists to maintaining the high standards that earned the delisting. The government has pledged to deepen reforms and strengthen its engagement with international partners like the FATF and the EU to ensure the financial system remains a force for legitimate economic expansion.

    The “Grey List” era may be over, but the work of protecting Nigeria’s financial borders continues, as Dr. Uzoka-Anite has clearly noted, “We have shown the world that when we work together—government, private sector, civil society, and citizens—we can achieve extraordinary things.”

  • Commercial grinding machines slowly piling poison on food

    Commercial grinding machines slowly piling poison on food

    Mrs. Nkeiruka Okoye, who has never patronised the local grinding machines, said as she was preparing for her 10- year- old son’s birthday her blending machine packed up and she had no option but to rush to the nearest market to find a way of grinding her food products.

    According to her, she had bought a medium-sized basket of red ‘tomato Jos’, bell pepper [tatashi], scotch bonnet pepper, etcetera. On getting to the Ipodo Market, Ikeja, Lagos, which was the closest to her house, she got directions to one of the commercial grinders.

    “Already two people were before me, so I patiently waited for my turn”. Narrating her experience, as the operator started grinding for her, initially everything was coming out clear and fine, but all of a sudden “I saw a line of black liquid trickling into what he was grinding for me”. Alarmed, I shouted at him to switch off the grinder. Looking up, he asked me why. I pointed my finger at the black liquid, asking him what it was, and he nonchalantly said it was nothing to worry about and made me restart the engine”.

    Furious at his nonchalant attitude, I asked him to stop grinding if he would not stop the liquid from mixing with my tomatoes, and he called me a troublemaker, saying that no customer had ever complained about that liquid except me.

    All over Nigeria, consumers patronise these commercial grinders. They grind both dry food products like corn, as well as fresh foods. Grinding shops operate in markets, on street corners, behind houses, and sometimes inside cramped kiosks covered with dust and smoke.

    The majority of consumers patronise them because they do not have blenders at home, and even if they do, they do not have industrial ones that can grind large quantities of food products. Some other consumers patronise them because of the unreliability of electricity.

     However, the unfortunate aspect of this whole issue is that metals have been mixing into the food products that pass through these machines. Metals like zinc and iron, when consumed consistently, can result in serious health issues.

    A clinical toxicologist who asked not to be named because he is not authorised to speak to the press, said chronic exposure to heavy metals through food is a “real but underestimated” driver of kidney disease. “Nigeria has a rising crisis of chronic kidney disease. The public tends to blame high blood pressure and diabetes, which are indeed causes, but environmental and dietary exposure to toxic metals is the elephant in the room,” he said. “Metals do not leave the body quickly. If you ingest small amounts every day from flours, pepper, beans or groundnuts processed by unsafe machines, the cumulative dose over the years becomes dangerous.”

    Public health experts warn that chronic, long-term exposure to small quantities of toxic metals can silently impair kidney function. Kidney damage usually progresses without symptoms until it becomes advanced. By the time fatigue, swelling, or reduced urination appear, kidney function may already be severely compromised. Nigeria currently spends billions of naira on dialysis and kidney transplants each year, with demand rising sharply

    The toxicologist at a Teaching Hospital explained the biological mechanism: “Lead and cadmium accumulate in kidney tissues. They damage the tubules responsible for filtering waste. Over the years, this has led to chronic kidney disease. Even low-level daily exposure from contaminated food adds up.”

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    Unfortunately, the problem is not just the grinding machine but the complete absence of regulatory supervision. Nigeria’s food-safety laws theoretically cover the production, processing, and handling of foods, but in practice, the grinding industry is almost entirely informal. Many run without registration, without licenses, and without inspections.

    A senior official at the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), who pleaded anonymity, admitted that enforcement in this sector is “almost nonexistent.”

    He explained that SON’s mandate covers materials and equipment, while NAFDAC oversees food safety. “But the grinding machine business is too fragmented,” he said. “Ninety per cent of operators are informal. We cannot inspect thousands of small shops scattered nationwide.”

    A NAFDAC official in the Food Safety and Applied Nutrition Directorate noted that the agency focuses on packaged, commercial food producers. “People grinding pepper in a market are outside formal regulation,” she said. “Technically, they should operate under sanitary regulations, but enforcement is difficult. The agency simply does not have the manpower.

    The worries about these grinding machines are the kind of metal they are composed of. The metal composition of such improvised discs is inconsistent and often unsafe. Welded joints break easily. Rust is common. Some discs are made from recycled vehicle parts.

    Investigations revealed that in one workshop, a mechanic proudly displayed a grinder disc he fashioned from discarded brake drums.

    Experts warn that these improvised parts introduce unpredictable metal contamination. “When you do not know the alloy composition of the metal, you cannot predict the level of lead or chromium that might leach into food.

    Experts insist the technology itself is not the problem; the danger lies in the lack of maintenance and the use of substandard parts. Proper stainless-steel grinding discs, properly maintained and regularly replaced, can minimise contamination. But most small-scale operators cannot afford them.

    Further findings also revealed that a stainless-steel disc can cost ₦40,000 to ₦60,000 while a fabricated one is ₦6,000.

    Regulators agree that change will require a coordinated effort — public enlightenment, machine-operator training, enforcement of basic standards, and affordable access to safe equipment.

    Most of the operators of these machines do not know the health implications of the metals that leach into food. Their concern is to grind smoothly and collect their money. The majority of consumers are also ignorant of the health risks.

    A dependable solution, according to food-safety specialists, would involve subsidising safe grinder parts, training operators on maintenance, and conducting regular, random market inspections. Without such measures, millions of Nigerians will continue consuming small but dangerous doses of metal daily.

    In the absence of regulation, metal ingestion through grinding machines remains an invisible national health threat — one that touches nearly every home, every kitchen, and every meal.

    It is a crisis hidden in plain sight, waiting for attention, waiting for accountability, and silently accumulating in the bodies of millions.

    Consumers, please let’s be more conscious of what we ingest into our bodies.

  • 10 things you should never store in plastic containers

    10 things you should never store in plastic containers

    When it comes to storage, odds are you have a collection of plastic containers on standby in your home. While these products make tough, cost-effective solutions, sometimes they’re not the best for the items you’re actually putting inside. Here are the things experts say you should never store in plastic containers—and what the best storage substitutes are.

     Raw meat

    Raw meat should not be stored  in plastic containers for potential cross-contamination reasons.

    Simultaneously, it’s always best to make sure whatever vessel you’re using to house raw meat comes with an airtight, sealable lid. Open lids, or ones that open easily, can cause leakage, which is the absolute last thing you want with uncooked meat.

    Tomato sauces & curries

     The acid in tomatoes can cause the plastic to degrade and absorb odors over time, and same with curries.  This acidity reacts to the plastic and can cause chemical leaching.

    Garlic, onions, & fresh herbs

    Whenever you’re in a pinch and need a place to store the head of garlic you just peeled or fresh herbs from your garden, experts say to reach for anything except for plastic containers. Foods with a strong odour such as onions, garlic, and certain cheeses can penetrate the plastic, which will leave it stained with the smell and potentially ruin foods stored in the container in the future.

    As for fresh herbs, plastic containers cause them to wilt and lose flavor quickly since they do not provide proper ventilation.

    Fruits

    Similar to herbs, fruits such as berries, avocados, and citruses should be left out of plastic, too. Fruits like berries and avocados tend to go bad faster in plastic than in glass containers. Additionally, the lack of ventilation in plastic containers causes fruits to get moldy and mushy because of the moisture buildup.

    Hot foods

    Hot food and liquids should never be stored in plastic containers as the high temperatures can cause the plastic to release harmful chemicals. Always make sure to let food cool before storing in plastic containers.

    Oily, fatty, or greasy foods

    When you’re cooking, it’s important to know the type of foods you’re making so you can put them in proper storage. Oily, fatty, and greasy food do not react well to plastic and should be put in better alternatives, like glass, according to our experts. Foods that have high oil content or produce a lot of grease can break down plastic over a long period of time, which puts the food at risk of being contaminated. Foods with a high fat content are best to avoid when it comes to plastic containers as the fat can absorb more chemicals from the plastic compared to other food types.

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    Books

    Food isn’t the only item that has a lot of limitations when it comes to using plastic storage. Some household items make the list of things to keep out of plastic tubs, and according to Traub, one of those is books.

    This would be fine in a temperature-controlled room, but with all the humidity, any trapped moisture can cause pages to warp or mildew to form, which can ruin books over time.

    Leather goods

    Any leather you may have— in the form of purses, boots, jackets, and more—should be kept far away from plastic or placed in these storage items strategically to preserve the material. Leather items like purses in plastic containers are okay if the container is kept in a cool, dry place. But if there’s any moisture, the leather might develop mold or mildew and could even cause your leather to crack. If you’re going to store leather items in plastic containers, I recommend using silica gel packets.

    Photographs

    Precious momentos like photographs, sadly can be damaged if you leave them in plastic. Plastic containers can damage photos if heat or moisture gets trapped inside. They might even stick together or fade over time. 

    Candles

    Keeping candles in plastic containers in a cool, dry spot could be okay. However, if the container is exposed to any heat or sunlight, the wax can soften or melt. Choose wisely when finding a place to store your favorite wax candle so you can enjoy its scent and form.

    Best storage alternatives to plastic

    Overall, the material for storage for most of these items, especially the food, is glass. According to research, glass is safe for most foods because it’s nonreactive, stain resistant, and good for hot and cold things. Silicone bags are also a wonderful, eco-friendly option that you can wash and reuse.

  • Shobanjo urges new fellows to redefine excellence in advertising

    Shobanjo urges new fellows to redefine excellence in advertising

    • By Afolabi Idowu

    In a keynote speech that blended history, wisdom and challenge, Dr Biodun Shobanjo, widely regarded as the “Czar of Advertising” in Nigeria, urged newly-inducted Fellows of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) to see their recognition not as a mere badge of seniority, but as a permanent call to elevate standards, redefine excellence and protect the integrity of the industry.

    Delivering the keynote at the induction ceremony, at which 45 seasoned practitioners were formally decorated as Fellows, Dr. Shobanjo questioned the value and meaning behind professional recognition that is not anchored in purpose and substance.

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    “Let’s ask ourselves—beyond the certificate, the plaque, and the medal—what exactly does it mean?” Shobanjo challenged. “Being a Fellow must go beyond years of service. It must be a reflection of your conduct, your contribution, and your character.”

    Drawing parallels with the legal profession, where the Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) title commands reverence due to consistent excellence and ethical distinction, Shobanjo urged ARCON and its Fellows to redefine what fellowship means in the creative economy.

    “If the legal profession holds its SANs in such high esteem, then our own Fellowship must come to represent something equally aspirational and substantive,” he said.

    The event which held in Lagos recently, brought together top leaders of Nigeria’s marketing communications industry, regulators, and veterans to honour the 45 new Fellows — drawn from advertising, media, public relations, and brand management circles.

    The inductees, carefully selected by ARCON’s Fellowship Committee after a rigorous review process, represent a new cadre of industry custodians expected to uphold ethics, mentor younger practitioners, and contribute to the growth of Nigeria’s fast-evolving advertising ecosystem.

    ARCON’s Director-General, Dr. Olalekan Fadolapo, underscored that the Fellowship is “not ceremonial, but a symbol of responsibility and leadership.” He reminded the audience that the regulatory council’s mission extends beyond licensing—it is about standardising practice, enforcing ethics, and protecting the credibility of advertising in Nigeria.

  • Alpha Morgan Bank expands footprint

    Alpha Morgan Bank expands footprint

    Alpha Morgan Bank opened its newest branch in Osogbo, Osun State, strengthening its commitment to bringing satisfying banking closer to customers across Nigeria.

    The new branch, located at 165 Station Road, Osogbo, was commissioned by Prince Kola Adewusi, Deputy Governor of Osun State, in a ceremony that drew government officials, business leaders, and members of the Bank’s management team.

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    Prince Adewusi commended Alpha Morgan Bank for expanding into Osun, describing it as a move that will boost economic activities and improve access to quality financial services within the state.

    Speaking at the launch, Mr. Ade Buraimo, MD/CEO Alpha Morgan Bank expressed gratitude to the government and people of Osun for their warm reception, reaffirming the Bank’s commitment to providing seamless, customer-focused, and satisfying banking experiences to everyone who Banks with them.

  • Polaris Bank deepens customer experience, boost environmental sustainability commitment

    Polaris Bank deepens customer experience, boost environmental sustainability commitment

    Service delivery took centre stage as Polaris Bank reaffirmed its commitment to enriching customer experiences while joining institutions globally to mark the 2025 Customer Service Week, themed “Mission: Possible.”

    The annual global event, observed recently recognises the crucial role of customer service professionals and the value they bring to customers and businesses alike.

    Addressing customers and staff, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Polaris Bank, Kayode Lawal, stated that excellent service remains central to the Bank’s culture and long-term success.

    He noted that while the pursuit of great service can be challenging, it is always worth the effort.

    According to him, Polaris Bank’s service philosophy rests on consistency, thoughtfulness, and excellence, ensuring that every interaction reflects genuine care and responsiveness.

    Lawal expressed appreciation to customers for their trust and feedback, describing them as the foundation upon which the Bank continues to innovate and evolve.

    He reaffirmed the Bank’s pledge to remain by its customers’ side, delivering quality service that meets their needs and expectations at every stage of engagement.

    Throughout the week, Polaris Bank is conducting a range of activities across its branches and digital platforms to celebrate both customers and service champions within the organisation.

    The engagements include customer appreciation sessions, staff recognition ceremonies, and learning initiatives aimed at strengthening service excellence.

    Customer Service Week, celebrated globally in the first full week of October, honours service professionals who make exceptional experiences possible.

    For Polaris Bank, the event represents yet another opportunity to celebrate its people and reaffirm that with teamwork and dedication, great service remains a mission possible.

    Days before the Customer Service Week celebration, the Bank expanded its sustainability agenda through a nationwide tree-planting campaign conducted in partnership with the Nigeria Conservation Foundation (NCF).

    The initiative extended to three major locations: the Lekki Conservation Centre in Lagos State, the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) in Ogun State, and Sardauna Memorial College in Kaduna State.

    The campaign, first launched in 2024 during the Bank’s commemoration of World Environment Day, stresses Polaris Bank’s long-term commitment to addressing climate change, reducing carbon emissions, and promoting sustainable practices nationwide.

    At the Lagos event, held at the Lekki Conservation Centre, Executive Directors Chris Ofikulu and Sharafadeen Muhammad joined NCF representatives and volunteers to plant trees as part of the campaign’s expansion.

    Speaking at the event, Chris Ofikulu, Executive Director, Commercial and Retail, expressed appreciation to participants and reiterated that the exercise demonstrates the Bank’s deep commitment to environmental sustainability.

    He recalled leading the Bank’s first tree-planting activity in 2024 at the Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED), Ogun State.

    He noted that the initiative aligns with the United Nations Decade of Ecosystem Restoration, a global movement focused on building a greener and more resilient future.

    Ofikulu explained that Polaris Bank views sustainability not just as a corporate responsibility but as a business imperative that drives long-term value creation.

    He added that through this initiative, the Bank reaffirms its role beyond traditional banking, aligning with the collective goal of planting 10,000 trees nationwide to promote ecological balance and environmental health.

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    Also speaking at the event, Sharafadeen Muhammad, Executive Director, Operations, emphasised that protecting the environment remains a shared responsibility for the benefit of all.

    He described the initiative as a commendable effort that supports the creation of nature reserves capable of conserving biodiversity while generating economic value.

    In Ogun State, the Divisional Head for Ogun/Oyo Region, Yetunde Okeleye, stated that the tree-planting initiative reinforces Polaris Bank’s commitment to sustainability.

    According to her, planting economic trees across Nigeria demonstrates that environmental stewardship is not only a responsibility but an integral part of the Bank’s identity.

    She added that the partnership with the NCF at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, reflects the Bank’s dedication to restoring degraded land, preventing soil erosion, and mitigating the effects of climate change.

    Okeleye described the initiative as a clear expression of Polaris Bank’s determination to foster environmental sustainability and community well-being for future generations.

    In Kaduna State, Kabir Lawal, Acting Group Head for the North West, led staff of the Bank in a similar exercise at Sardauna Memorial College.

    He emphasised that sustainability forms a core part of Polaris Bank’s culture and governance framework.

    According to him, every decision the Bank makes is guided by environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles designed to address environmental challenges while empowering communities and promoting inclusive growth.

    Lawal explained that the Kaduna exercise, undertaken in partnership with the NCF, goes beyond tree planting to restore degraded areas, prevent erosion, and raise public awareness on the importance of environmental preservation.

    Representatives of the Nigeria Conservation Foundation commended Polaris Bank’s leadership, noting that the trees planted – including both fruit-bearing and shade-providing species – would serve multiple ecological and economic purposes such as erosion control, windbreak, shade provision, and food security enhancement.

    Community leaders from FUNAAB and Sardauna Memorial College expressed appreciation to Polaris Bank and the NCF for their leadership and partnership, describing the initiative as timely and impactful in addressing global climate challenges at the local level.

    Through these initiatives, Polaris Bank continues to integrate sustainability into its core operations, ensuring that climate action and community development remain central to its long-term growth strategy.

    The Bank reaffirmed that through collaboration, innovation, and shared responsibility, building a greener and more inclusive future remains both achievable and essential.

  • Payment of first fruit should not cause hardship — Genesis

    Payment of first fruit should not cause hardship — Genesis

    Prophet Israel Oladele Ogundipe, the Presiding Pastor of Genesis Global Church, popularly known as Prophet Genesis, has advised Christians that the payment of first fruit offerings should not be done at the expense of their well-being or that of their loved ones.

    Speaking during a recent interview, the cleric said he was compelled to address the issue following several troubling cases brought to his attention.

    According to him, many believers become anxious during the first month of the year, worrying about how they will cope financially if they give out their first fruit.

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    He cited the example of a church member who had ₦500,000 but was torn between paying his first fruit and assisting his mother with her rent.

    “He wanted to use the money to pay first fruit because he had been told that those who do not pay it will not receive God’s blessings,” Prophet Genesis explained. “When the matter came to me, I told him that God would not want his mother to be thrown out of her house or live in discomfort. God does not delight in the suffering of His children.”

    He added that it was to address such misconceptions that Genesis Global Church holds a Monthly Crossover Service, aimed at helping members transition spiritually and practically into a new month with clarity and understanding.

    Prophet Genesis further announced that the church will dedicate Sunday, January 18, 2025, to discussing the topic of first fruit and related issues in a special programme tagged “Podcast Sunday.”

    He invited individuals who are confused about such teachings to attend, learn the correct biblical principles, and ask questions that will deepen their understanding.

  • Isaac Oyedepo begins Sunday services, rejects offering collections

    Isaac Oyedepo begins Sunday services, rejects offering collections

    Founder of Isaac Oyedepo Evangelistic Ministries (IOEM), Pastor Isaac Oyedepo, has reiterated that the core mandate of his ministry is to make disciples of all nations.

    He made this known in a recent online message monitored by The Nation. In the video, posted recently, the young cleric emphasised that his ministry will focus on discipleship and spiritual growth, while deviating from some traditional church practices—most notably by not collecting offerings.

    The announcement coincided with the launch of IOEM’s Sunday Services, which will now be held weekly from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm in Abuja.

    During the broadcast, Oyedepo said his approach is patterned after the early ministry of Jesus Christ.

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    “All Jesus did during His early ministry was to make disciples. The fire fell, and they were filled and refilled. Before He left, He commanded us to do the same,” he stated.

    He added that true spiritual growth requires a consistent journey through the Word of God, asking, “How healthy would our churches be if people were truly deep in the Scriptures?”

    Addressing the financial structure of the ministry, Oyedepo disclosed that God specifically instructed him not to collect offerings.

    While acknowledging that there is nothing wrong with the practice in other ministries, he explained that for this particular assignment, his focus must remain strictly on the spiritual development of the people.

    Born on February 26, 1985, Oyedepo formally transitioned into his independent ministry on November 28, 2023, after several years of service at Living Faith Church (Winners Chapel), the global ministry founded by his father, Bishop David Oyedepo.

  • CAN mourns Imam who saved 262 Christians during 2018 killings

    CAN mourns Imam who saved 262 Christians during 2018 killings

    The leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) on Saturday commended the bravery of late Imam Abubakar Abdullahi who saved 262 Christians during a violent massacre in 2018 in Plateau. 

    CAN hailed Abdullahi for standing firmly on the side of humanity when it mattered most. 

    While paying tribute to whom it described as an extraordinary religious leader whose life and actions remain a profound testimony to courage, compassion, and our shared humanity, CAN said his death his painful. 

    Abdullahi died at 92.

    A statement by the President of CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, reads: “The late Imam Abubakar Abdullahi will forever be remembered for his rare moral bravery and selflessness at a time of grave danger. By choosing to protect innocent lives at great personal risk, he saved 262 Christians during a violent massacre in 2018.

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    “His actions transcended religious boundaries and powerfully affirmed that the sanctity of human life is sacred above all else.

    “This singular act of heroism did more than save lives. It reinforced hope, strengthened interfaith harmony, and reminded our nation that peace is possible when conscience, love, and faith guide our actions. In a world often divided by suspicion and hatred, the Imam stood as a bridge-builder and a living symbol of what true religion represents.

    “It was in recognition of this exceptional service to humanity that CAN honoured him with an award during its Sapphire Anniversary celebrations in 2021. While plaques may fade with time, his legacy will endure as a shining example for religious leaders, communities, and generations to come.

    “CAN believes that such courage deserves not only remembrance but amplification. We therefore call for continued honour to his memory, including engagement with his family and broad public recognition of his noble sacrifice, so that his story may inspire unity, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence across our nation.

    “As we mourn his passing, we celebrate a life well lived in service to God and humanity. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, his community, and all who were touched by his remarkable example. May his legacy continue to speak where words fall short”.

  • Testimony Jaga blends worship with massive community outreach

    Testimony Jaga blends worship with massive community outreach

    The One Jesus One Church One Hallelujah Programme, an annual praise, worship, and humanitarian outreach initiative organized by popular gospel music minister Testimony Jaga, recorded another landmark outing as it held its sixth edition, impacting hundreds of lives through worship, empowerment, and social intervention.

    The programme, which attracted a massive turnout, featured extended praise and worship sessions led by notable gospel ministers, including Minister Lilian Nneji, Esther Igbekele, Dare Justified, Elijah Daniel, and several other worship leaders who joined Testimony Jaga in leading the congregation to appreciate God through songs and thanksgiving.

    Speaking during the event, Testimony Jaga stated that the Hallelujah Programme was established purely to glorify God and serve humanity.

    “This programme is about lifting the name of Jesus and appreciating God. This is the sixth edition, and every year I intentionally invite ministers to come and help us worship God and thank Him for all He has done in our lives,” he said.

    Unlike conventional gospel concerts, the Hallelujah Programme deliberately combines spiritual activities with structured humanitarian outreach. This year’s edition featured a children’s party, a free medical outreach, and a boxing programme, all designed to engage different segments of the community.

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    A major highlight of the event was the large-scale distribution of empowerment items and relief materials to beneficiaries drawn from the community and the general public. Items given out included tricycles, bicycles, mini buses, industrial sewing machines, deep freezers, grinding machines, and other valuable equipment aimed at supporting entrepreneurship, mobility, and self-reliance.

    Explaining the motivation behind the outreach, Testimony Jaga revealed that the programme is closely tied to his personal background and ongoing scholarship initiative.

    “I grew up in Alagbado, Lagos, and I currently have many students there under my scholarship programme. This Hallelujah Programme is anchored on that vision, giving hope, supporting education, and empowering people from the community that raised me,” he explained.

    Jaga further disclosed that the initiative is largely self-sponsored, noting that no corporate or institutional body officially partnered with the programme.

    “I am the only sponsor of this programme, with support from some of my church members. There is no organization partnering with us in funding or execution,” he said.

    However, he acknowledged that some brands showed support through participation.

    “We appreciate Kellogg’s and Indomie for lending their presence at the event. Their show of support encouraged the programme,” he added.

    According to Testimony Jaga, the ultimate objective of the One Jesus Church Hallelujah Programme is community transformation through giving.

    “The purpose is to touch lives and make a real impact in society. Worship should not end on the altar; it must reflect in how we give back and care for people,” he stated.

    Beneficiaries and attendees described the programme as both spiritually uplifting and socially impactful, noting that the combination of worship, empowerment, and outreach set it apart from regular gospel events.

    Over the years, the One Jesus Church Hallelujah Programme has continued to grow in scope and impact, establishing itself as a faith-driven platform for praise, compassion, and community development, while reinforcing Testimony Jaga’s message that true worship is expressed through service to humanity.