It was a day of joy, reverence, and national reflection as Christian leaders, political dignitaries, and well-wishers gathered to celebrate the 90th birthday of Pastor Dr Elijah Oludele Abina, the General Overseer of The Gospel Faith Mission International (GOFAMINT). The event, held at the church’s National Headquarters in Ibadan, Oyo State, drew tributes from across Nigeria and beyond.
The milestone celebration featured spirited prayers, heartfelt thanksgiving, and glowing accolades for the nonagenarian cleric who has led GOFAMINT for over six decades with uncommon grace, resilience, and impact.
Among the prominent figures in attendance were the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye; President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Bishop Francis Wale Oke; Governor of Oyo State, Mr Seyi Makinde; Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin; and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.
In his tribute, Pastor Adeboye described Abina as a “man of rare grace” and a spiritual father whose legacy of faith has shaped the Church in Nigeria.
“Your life has been a testimony of God’s faithfulness. Christendom is proud of your unwavering commitment to the gospel. May you continue to grow stronger in the Lord and finish well,” Adeboye said.
Bishop Wale Oke hailed the celebrant as a founding father and a cornerstone of the PFN, praising his consistent witness to Christ and leadership within the body of Christ.
“Pastor Abina’s integrity, soul-winning passion, and pursuit of unity in the Church have left an indelible mark. He’s one of the most respected and impactful Christian voices in Nigeria,” Oke said.
In his congratulatory message, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin lauded Pastor Abina’s spiritual and social contributions to Ibadanland and Nigeria, calling on citizens to emulate his example and pray for national peace and development.
Taking the podium with a calm, grateful heart, Pastor Abina attributed his longevity and impact to God’s sustaining grace.
“It is only the grace of God that has brought me this far,” he said, recalling how he surrendered his life to Christ at age 20 and was called into full-time ministry at 37. “I pray that I will be like Jesus Christ—in my speech, in my actions, and in my love for people. That is my desire.”
He acknowledged his mentor, Pastor Dr Reuben George, and reflected on over six decades of service in ministry. “This is my 63rd year of preaching the gospel. I have not changed anything; I only continue to build on the solid foundation laid before me,” he said.
Pastor Femi Omowumi, the General Secretary of GOFAMINT, described Abina as a visionary leader with a deep passion for mentoring the next generation.
“He’s a father, a mentor, and a discoverer of talent,” Omowumi said. “Even at 90, he chairs our Executive Council meetings, comes to the office, and stays fully engaged in ministry. He is still shaping the Church, raising leaders, and inspiring all of us.”
According to Omowumi, Abina remains actively involved in strategic church leadership and recently led discussions during high-level meetings with Christian leaders across denominations.
The event served not only as a celebration of Pastor Abina’s life but also as a tribute to a legacy that has influenced generations of believers. His commitment to holiness, discipleship, and unity within the body of Christ continues to define his ministry.
As the GOFAMINT family marked this momentous occasion, attendees were reminded that Pastor Abina’s message remains clear: “Seek first the Kingdom of God.” And in doing so, he has shown that a life wholly given to God can indeed make an eternal difference.
It’s not all the time that billionaire businesswoman and acclaimed richest black woman on earth, Folorunsho Alakija, makes public speeches, which is why whenever she does, her voice and message resonate. This was the case recently as she led her team of Rose of The Sharon Foundation executives to commemorate this year’s International Widows Day and share her thoughts on plights of widows in Nigeria as well as unveil a report on research findings on challenges faced by this demographic across the country. She also spoke about her inspiration to champion the course of widows and why the government and society need to do more to stem the tide. Gboyega Alaka reports.
CAN you imagine someone telling you ‘Okay, your husband is dead but to be sure you don’t have a hand in his death, you have to bath your husband’s corpse and drink the water from the bathing? How can man be so wicked to another human being? Why should any human being go through any such exercise? Why are you forced to marry somebody you don’t want to marry just because the husband you loved died? Why are you mandated to marry his brother by force? And then the roof is being lifted off your head because your husband died. They say you have to go. Sometimes they take the children away from you. Children that you were raising together with your husband. And sometimes, they leave you to it. Somebody died, and the first thing that we heard was, ‘Where is his ATM card? Give it to us? Where did he buy land, give us the papers…?’ Meanwhile, the corpse was still lying there. The person died just a few hours earlier. What do we call that?”
Loaded words, you’d say, but above was part of billionaire businesswoman, Folorunsho Alakija’s opening speech, as she led the executives of her pet organisation, The Rose of Sharon Foundation to commemorated this year’s International Widows Day with the unveiling of the report of its research finding on the current state of widow’s rights in Nigeria to the media in Lagos recently.
For one who rarely makes public speeches, Alakija’s compelling voice held the room comprising journalists, The Rose of Sharon officials, FIDA (The International Federation of Women Lawyers) officials and widows, spellbound.
Hearing her reel out these scenarios at once evoked deep emotions while also drawing admiration for her person; for here was one woman who has never travelled the widowhood route, and who with her clout as the richest black woman on mother earth, has been lifted way beyond such condition.
For the records, Folorunsho Alakija is a Nigerian businesswoman and philanthropist with interests in oil, real estate, fashion, and printing. While her exact net worth fluctuates, she has been recognized by Forbes as one of the wealthiest women in the world, and her wealth is primarily derived from her company, Famfa Oil.
But Mrs. Alakija was not done. As far as she was concerned, the whole dehumanisation of widows is about money and inheritance.
“It’s all about the money. They strip the woman bare, either physically or materially. If he had any cars, they jump into them and drive off. House? They chase her out. ‘What do you think you are doing? You can’t remain here. It’s our brother’s house!’ Oh, the trauma that she suffers! Her husband is dead; she’s mourning; they don’t care. The children’s education, they don’t want to know, they don’t care! And then they keep chorusing, ‘He’s our brother!’ They don’t care about the financial challenges that the woman is going to face after stripping her of all that her husband left behind. They grab, grab, grab and continue to grab. When is this going to stop?”
A cry to the government
And then she turned to the government: “We say we’re Nigerians and we’re governed by a constitution; how is that constitution helping widows? We say we have laws, how are those laws being implemented? We say they are already being implemented in Abuja, but there are many states that say: ‘Wo (Look), that’s Abuja; we do our thing here. We are a state by ourselves; we do as we want’. The report that has been gathered has been gathered nationwide. A lot more needs to be done; and there are people who need to be prosecuted. They’re doing all these harmful things, and they’re getting away with them. There is need for a lot more awareness. This report that has been gathered is not something that should be left on the shelves, collecting dust. We need to provide attention. We are all responsible; and we need to be responsible citizens – by being our neighbours’ keeper. We are aware that this person is suffering, but we’re taking our ears and our eyes away. We need to assist one another. There is always something more to do, especially in the rural areas, where the widows don’t even know their rights. VAPP (Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act)? What’s that? They’ve never even heard about it. They are marginalised, they’re discriminated against. Society turns its back against them. They’re beaten, they don’t have money. They face all sorts of inhumane activities in this clime. When is it going to stop?”
“That’s the reason why we partnered with FIDA, so that we can find ways and means of bringing this to a halt. Letting the whole world know what these women go through. Awareness is key – letting the women know what their rights are; ensuring that they even have rights that can be implemented. We need to let culture do what it needs to do, but not use it to kill our women, because we’re sending them to the grave.
“We want our government to listen, and stop turning deaf ears to the plight of these women. They have their rights; they’re Nigerians; and they should benefit from these laws. Those laws need to be enacted and implemented. The public needs to know what these people’s rights are. When some things happen that are not right, those around them should be able to cry foul; they should be able to report. We’re living in a civilised society, and we should keep it that way. But right now, I think it’s an uncivilised society, with the way they are being treated. And this needs to be corrected. Those that need to be charged to court should be charged to court.”
Criminal penalty for perpetrators
Asked if she would support criminal penalties for perpetrators, Alakija was express in her reply.
“Of course! Aren’t they criminals? They are criminals. They are sending people to their graves. Directly or indirectly, that’s where their victims end up. They start off as widows, and then before we know it, they’re dead. How much can we do? The suffering is too much. Those who make them suffer should be made to suffer for what they do!
Passion for widows
But why did she choose this line of advocacy? From all indications, she’s neither a widow nor could she ever be indigent, even if life happens and she finds herself in that demographic.
“It is a call from God. Back in 2006, I was in my prayer room, and I said ‘Lord, you’ve done so much for me, what can I do for you?’ And He said, ‘Look after my widows and orphans’. James Chapter 1, verse 37. Go and look into their plight. Can you imagine waking up every day, with nowhere to go but to just sit down and cry? Because you don’t even know where to start! Because so much is stacked on you. And society is not making it better. They’re making it worse! And sending them to their graves! That’s why I have that passion. God called me and I answered the call.”
Since then Alakija said The Rose of Sharon Foundation has been doing the best it could with regards to taking care of widows and orphans. And she insisted that it goes beyond tokenism such as ‘sharing cooked rice and ankara’. “We’re doing a lot more than that. We’re sending them to school, we’re sending their children to school, we’re sending orphans to school, up to university level. And we’re giving accommodation to orphans.”
As an aside, she lamented the nonchalant attitude of the public to the call to support the mission.
“Years back we announced for people to adopt a child, adopt a widow; nobody has come forward to adopt nothing.”
This, she said, explains why the foundation may not be able to take up more people at the moment.
“What we do is put your name on the list; when we do start, you can be sure we’ll start from the top of the list,” she said.
On partnering with FIDA
Throwing more light on the research report titled: ‘Advocating for Specific Socio-legal Protection Framework for Widows,’ Alakija said, The Rose of Sharon Foundation took the decision to collaborate with FIDA, because they’re the lawyers, and the widows, with what they face, “need an arm of the law, and an arm of the government to do something about it.”
Journey so far
According to the Country Manager of the foundation, Dr. Ndudi Bowei, the organisation in 2008 commenced operation with just three widows but has now grown into a large network of thousands of beneficiaries.
“Our numeric data stands at 2446 current beneficiaries, whose lives we are impacting daily. This number comprises 994 widows, 1207 widows’ children (currently on educational scholarships), and 245 orphans, out of which we have produced 461 graduates,” she stated.
The organisation’s long-term goal, according to Bowei, is to expand and reach out to more beneficiaries across West Africa, while the short- and medium-term goals are to create value-based partnership and increased visibility.
State of Widows’ Rights
Reeling out a summary of the report of the research findings on current state of widows rights in Nigeria, Bowei said: “The research findings reveal that widows still face forced eviction, coercion, disinheritance, forceful remarriage, confinement, exclusion, sociolegal discrimination, and trial by ordeal due to harmful cultural practices, despite existing laws aimed at protecting their rights.”
Key findings include: Harmful Traditional Practices, Socioeconomic Exclusion and Discrimination, Inadequate Legal Framework, and Poor Media Advocacy for Awareness and Empowerment.
Recommendations and immediate call for action
The foundation called on the government to, among other things, Strengthen Legal Protections, Enforcement, Review and Update Policy Documents- this will include effective domestication and implementation of the VAPP Act and the Child Rights Act; and a review of existing gender and social protection policies.
Enactment of a National Law Specifically for Socio-legal protection of Widows- this should speak to the eradication of all forms of harmful practices against widows.
Need for the media to organise awareness programmes in rural areas, engaging the populace on the dangers of harmful widows’ practices; engagement of Traditional and Religious leaders in accelerating action towards protecting rights of widows in their domains.
Other recommendations include: promoting Mindset Restructuring, Social and behavioural Change Communication (SBCC); Empowerment of widows, Support Organisatiobn and Integration of government and partner intervention; inclusive Social Safety net programs; and development of Local Government Accountability structures with a Clear reporting pathway.
Research was conducted across the 36 states of the federation and the federal capital territory in collaboration with the International Federation of Women lawyers (FIDA).
Aside carting home major awards, including the Overall Best Student’s award, Joseph Ibiduma Apiriala-Atedoghu’s three inventions in faraway Academic City University, Ghana, designed to solve peculiar African problems, single him out as one exceptional talent to watch for. Gboyega Alaka reports.
Nigerians, it seems, have a knack for excelling wherever they find themselves. This is the story of Joseph Ibiduma Apiriala-Atedoghu, who recently graduated with a degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering at Academic City University, walking away with multiple top accolades at the university’s 2025 graduation ceremony.
Not only was he awarded Best Student in the Electrical, Electronics and Computer Engineering Department, he also took home the Academic City President’s Award – a distinction reserved for students who demonstrate exceptional academic excellence and leadership.
Most impressively, Joseph also emerged Overall Best Student of the Class of 2025, graduating with an extraordinary cumulative GPA of 3.95.
In an era when need for home-grown innovative solutions to African problems is becoming more pressing, few stories capture the continent’s potential more than that of Joseph’s.
For the young man who attributed his success to his hunger for problem-solving, therefore, this achievement is more than just a personal triumph; it is the beginning of a lifelong mission to tackle some of the most pressing challenges facing African communities through innovation.
A Passion for Purpose
One of Joseph’s standout academic contributions is an innovative project named “Mercury Sensing: A Microcontroller-Compatible Approach for Water Quality Monitoring.” The prototype, developed as part of his final-year thesis, addresses a major environmental issue – mercury contamination of water bodies caused by illegal artisanal mining, a problem that affects both Ghana and Nigeria.
“Many of the communities affected by mercury pollution are the least equipped to monitor or manage it. I wanted to develop a solution that is low-cost, easy to use, and compatible with microcontrollers, so it can be integrated into IoT systems for real-time environmental monitoring,” Joseph said.
His design uses gold’s sensitivity to mercury to detect changes in resistance, making it a powerful yet user-friendly tool for detecting mercury levels in water. By creating a sensor that is both portable and affordable, Joseph hopes to empower local environmental agencies, NGOs, and research institutions with better tools to protect public health and water ecosystems.
The innovation aligns with key United Nations Sustainable Development Goals—Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3), Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6), and Life Below Water (SDG 14)—showing that even student projects can have global relevance.
Joseph also led a group of students to develop SMART NELDI, a groundbreaking system that allows users to control devices like lights, fans, and sockets from their smartphones anytime, anywhere.
This innovative project, designed to conserve energy and simplify appliance management, earned recognition at the prestigious Engineering Excellence Awards, organised by the Ghana Institution of Engineering.
Joseph also played a pivotal role in the Surgical Lamp Project, spearheading the effort alongside Biomedical Engineering colleagues to develop an affordable, high-quality operating-room lamp tailored for rural and underserved hospitals. Currently in the manufacturing phase, the team has successfully constructed and assembled the surgical lamp head, an essential milestone demonstrating both technical prowess and deep empathy for communities lacking proper surgical lighting.
The next crucial step involves integrating appropriate light bulbs into their design, bringing the project closer to deployment in clinical settings. By creating a locally sourced, cost-effective lighting solution, Joseph and his teammates are improving surgical outcomes in resource-limited areas, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals like Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3) and Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9).
Their work exemplifies how innovation, when rooted in compassion and practicality, can significantly enhance healthcare access and quality.
Teamwork and Technology
Joseph didn’t stop at mercury sensing. Together with peers Jefferson Geraldo and Ama Baduwa Baidoo, he also contributed to the Automated Poultry Farm project, an effort to bring smart agriculture solutions to small- and medium-scale poultry farms.
The project, which is currently at the prototype stage, uses weight sensors to automate the feeding, watering, and egg collection processes. The system reduces manual labour while improving efficiency and animal welfare. Funded by Academic City’s Technology and Entrepreneurship Centre, the innovation reflects the university’s emphasis on entrepreneurship and solving real-world problems.
According to him, “Our goal was to reduce the burden on farmers and make poultry farming more data-driven and less labour-intensive. It is about improving food security through smarter systems.”
A Community of Support
Joseph credits much of his success to the learning environment and support systems at Academic City University. With a curriculum that blends technology, entrepreneurship and leadership, the university prides itself on developing future-ready African leaders.
“Academic City gave me the room to experiment, the mentorship to stay grounded, and the community to keep me inspired. The experience has shaped how I think about challenges—not as obstacles, but as opportunities for impactful innovation,” he reflected.
According to Dr. Lucy Agyepong, Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Academic City, Joseph’s story is evidence of what young Africans can achieve when given the right environment.
“He exemplifies the kind of talent Africa needs—intellectually brilliant, socially conscious and committed to creating solutions that serve humanity,” she said.
Looking Ahead
As he prepares to take on new challenges beyond university walls, Joseph is focused on deepening his research, collaborating with industry players, and scaling his innovations. His ambition is clear: to be part of the generation that not only imagines a better Africa but builds it.
For many young Nigerians and Ghanaians, Joseph’s story is a beacon of hope. It shows that brilliance knows no borders and that Africa’s next big breakthrough could come from a final-year student with a laptop, an idea, and a burning desire to make a difference.
Bothered about the escalating internal and external conflicts in several countries that tend to disrupt global peace and unity, the General Overseer of Word of Eternal Life Ministry (Inc) in Oke-Afa area of Lagos, Pastor Titus James Nwakaeze has advised Nigerians to embrace peace, unity and love for one another.
Attributing the horrid situation to lack of love among humanity, Pastor Nwakaeze advised people of God and all humankind to embrace genuine love to make the world a livable and lovable place for all. He noted that a world characterised by hatred, lack of fellow feeling and teeth for tart would make the world blind and toothless.
Nwakaeze advised on Sunday in a sermon on “Love and Relationships.”
He avowed that “peace is vital in human relationships as it is noble for individuals’ well-being, societal progress and global stability. It allows people to prosper, fosters cooperation and promotes development by enabling focus on essential needs and long-term planning. Without peace, societies are prone to conflict, violence and instability, hindering progress and leading to loss of lives and resources.”
In his view, there is a greater need for global peace now than ever. He stated that this urgent requisite for peace and love stems from the distressing implications of conflict and violence, which hinder human rights, economic development, and overall well-being. He added that “achieving peace requires loving God the Creator committedly and showing great commitment and zeal towards loving one’s neighbour as oneself.”
In all these, he said, the most significant is love, which engenders peace and progress.
Describing love as a sign of discipleship, Pastor Nwakaeze affirmed that “love is a strong liking, kind feeling, affection and care for someone or something.”
Making reference to ancient Greek philosophers who identified four types of love, Nwakaeze revealed that Agape is exemplified by God, who gave His only begotten son to die for the sins of humankind.
“Agape or unconditional love is the highest form of love because it is selfless, compassionate and sacrificial. It’s the kind of love that extends to all humanity and is associated with God’s love for humankind.
“This is the greatest form of love because God never expected anything in return from humankind because the love is unconditional. This type of love should be encouraged among humanity.
Another form of love is what he called storge or familial love, which is the natural affection felt within a family, such as the bond between parents and children or siblings.
Philia or brotherly love, another form of love, according to Pastor Nwakaeze, is characterised by deep friendship and companionship. It’s the affection shared between close friends and can also extend to family members.
Eros or romantic love, which he described as passionate and often associated with carnal and erotic desire and attraction, is the kind of love found in romantic relationships among boyfriends and girlfriends. This kind of relationship is prevalent in our world and should be discouraged.
Noting that nothing is so wrong for individuals to be associated with any of these four kinds of love, he, however, advised that the most to be recommended or prescribed for humanity is Agape love, because, he said, “if unconditional love exists among humankind, the issues of hatred, strife, killings as a result of banditry, robbery, kidnappings and non-state actors taking up arms against states and fellow humankind would die away.
Thousands across Umuaiah, Abia state capital and its environs attended the recent mega crusade with the six sons of Prophet Daniel Olukoya at Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM) Umuaiah Region.
It was indeed showers of blessings and testimony galore as the host Pastor and Regional Overseer , MFM South- East 6 Region, Pastor Olugbenga Aremu held a crusade with the theme ‘Anointing to open the gates of Nations. “
The service was characterised by fervent prayer, energetic worship, different song ministrations, and miracles.
It attracted large congregations seeking divine intervention, healings, spiritual renewal, foreign and international breakthroughs. It was Indeed it was a miracle service.
It was a vibrant Pentecostal miracle service deeply ingrained in the religious fabric.
Fittingly, the crusade has been described by participants as “one of the biggest gatherings” held by the church .
The crusade, according to Aremu, was in line with the explosive evangelism initiative of the church with the objectives “to capture the world for Christ, healing of the land as well as individuals of diverse challenges especially people who need deliverance ministries, spectacular local, National, foreign and international breakthroughs .
The three-day programme which also had a worker Retreat, featured Pastor Jesusina Morenikeji Chairman, MFM Council of Regions, Ikom Axis, Pastor astor Samuel Oladejo, Mega Regional Overseer MFM Ikorodu 2, Ijede, Pastor Moses Adekunle, Mega Regional Overseer
South- West 35 Oke Ado, Pastor Patrick Pat
Mega Regional Overseer MFM PTI, Warri
Pastor Oluwole Usikalu, Regional Overseer
MFM Byahin, Kubwa, Abuja and the host himself Pastor Olugbenga Aremu, Regional Overseer , MFM South-East 6, Umuahia, Abia state capital.
Many of the attendees came with various flags of different countries where they desire breakthroughs with prayer requests written on pieces of paper as well as photos of loved ones who could not be present due to distance, hospitalisation or bedridden in homes.
Others came along with water, Olive oil, and clothing (mantles) which they hoped would be prayed on, anchored on the belief that God would provide the ultimate source of solution to all their challenges and answer their supplications.
By the time the event kicked off, residents and others within and outside Umuaiah had massively gathered. Participants likewise travelled from different states of the country to attend the uncommon crusade.
In his message, Pastor Aremu said seeking for diverse breakthroughs either locally or internationally requires God’s intervention, stressed that for any breakthrough to manifest the spiritual gate for such breakthroughs must be opened.
He explained that a lot of individuals are getting themselves worked up, others burn out, while others are going through one form of depression or the other just in a quest to achieve one breakthrough or the other without result just because the spiritual gates are not opened through fervent deliverance prayers.
Aremu lamented that many especially the youths are engaging in rituals, Yahoo Plus, Internet frauds, with grave consequences rather than seeking God’s interventions through geniune repentance and prayers with godly focus for the spiritual gates regarding their desired breakthroughs to be open.
Aremu maintained that no physical breakthroughs can occur until the spiritual gates of such breakthroughs are opened.
According to him, the surest way out of the myriads of challenges bedeviling individuals and the country at large especially the unnecessary ‘Japa Syndrome ‘ is to cry to God for spiritual gates of breakthroughs to open.
Aremu however stressed that sin is the major hindrance to breakthroughs, calling on all to turn to God in genuine repentance and pray deliverance prayers for intervention.
The crusade was jubilation galore a as participants danced, sang, and praised God for the healing presence of the almighty God and intervention.
There was instant healing of different ailments that had lasted for days, weeks, months, and even years. Some had visited hospitals and spent huge amounts of money; while some had abandoned themselves to their fate, thinking hope was already lost.
The fire of prayer ignited the atmosphere, and testimonies poured out—fibroids disappeared, ailments vanished, and demons flee at the sound of Holy Ghost fire.
After the crusade, in which several miracles were recorded, the Regional Overseer noted that the church has been involved in different Corporate Social Responsibilities (CSR) towards alleviating the challenges faced by indigent youths and women in the church as well as Amuzukwu community and Umuaiah at large.
Aremu said the Church constantly operates Mannar market where free food items, clothings, wrappers, shoes, provision and ingredients are given to members of the church and the masses irrespective of their religion affiliations or ethnic backgrounds.
Aremu, reveled that the church constantly pays school fees for indigent but brilliant students in private primary, secondary and Tertiary institutions.
The Regional Overseer said the church also gives cash gifts to widows. women and men to start or boost their businesses while different infrastructure as well as renovations were put in place to make the church conducive for worshipping God.
Over 500 church leader and rural pastors participated in the EQUIP Mandate Conference (EMC) 2025 with the theme “Multiplication-driven leader,” on May 17, 2025, at Shepherdhill Baptist Church, Ikorodu Road, Lagos.
President of Anchor International Outreach Ministry, Dr Bolarinwa Omotosho, expressed gratitude to God, partners, friends, and participants for their role in the conference’s success.
During the event, the ministry launched the “Anchor L.E.A.D Vision 2035,” a 10-year initiative aimed at training 100,000 church leaders and pastors, equipping 10,000 missionaries, empowering 10,000 next-generation leaders, providing 10,000 theological education scholarships, offering free medical outreach to 100,000 medically underserved individuals, and training 50,000 youths on agricultural projects.
The ministry is committed to partnering with like-minded organizations, churches, and institutions to enhance church leaders’ capacity and serve communities effectively.
Notably, 85% of pastors in Nigeria lack quality theological education, making partnerships with Theological Education Institutions crucial.
The EMC conference featured seasoned ministers of God, including Rev. Dr. Michael Abodunrin, former Chairman of Nigerian Baptist Convention; Pastor Dr. Emmanuel Oluwayemi, Chairman, Life Builder Ministries International, Lagos; Dr. Mrs. Priscillia Omotosho, Member, Board of Trustees, Anchor International Outreach Ministry, Nigeria; Professor Lanre Ajiboye, senior lecturer at Lagos State University, Ojo, and Omotosho..
The conference included 13 breakout sessions handled by seasoned teachers and professionals, covering topics such as Women’s Mental Health and Its Benefits to Church Ministry, facilitated by Mrs. Patience Adekanye; Reaching the Next Generation: Effective strategies for teenager Ministry, facilitated by Mrs. Bukola Oyesola; Effective Church Administration: Strategies for Streamlining Processes, Combating Church Politics and Maximising Ministry Impact, facilitated by Dr. Abel Leke Ogundeji; The Shepherd’s Well-being: Prioritizing Pastors’ Health and Wellness, facilitated by Dr. Olumide Adegbokun; Reaching the Digital Generation: Effective Strategies for Digital Evangelism, facilitated by Mr. Fadipe Samuel Rotimi; Entrepreneurship: Leveraging Business for Ministry Impact; Stewarding God’s Resources: Best Practices for Church Finance and Record Keeping, facilitated by Pastor Afuwape Ebenezer; Sharing the Love of Christ with Muslims: Practical Strategies for Effective Muslim Evangelism, facilitated by Pastor Korede Olawoyin; Cross-Cultural Mission: Connecting with People Whose Culture is Different from Our Own, facilitated by Dr. Aina Joel; Raising Up Mighty Men: Equipping Men for Spiritual Leadership in the Church, facilitated by Dr. Michael Oluwaniyi; Deepening Roots: The Importance of Ongoing Theological Education for Pastors, facilitated by Dr. Michael Animashaun; Empowering the Next Generation: Strategies for Effective Youth Ministry, facilitated by Rev. Moses Ayando; and Legitimate Ways to Generate Revenue as Pastors and Pastors’ Wife, facilitated by Mrs. Okikiola Fakoya.
Popular preacher Apostle Johnson Suleman has preached on the connection between money and a man’s true character.
He emphasised that while many men may appear to have good behaviour when they are financially down, their real character only shows when they attain wealth.
The clergyman stated: “You don’t have character as a man if you don’t have money.”
According to him, financial stability tests a man’s ability to remain humble, loyal and respectful.
He explained that a man who, despite his wealth, can control his pride, resist the urge to chase multiple women and still show respect to people—especially women who may not be as affluent—is the true definition of a man with character.
He warned women not to judge a man’s character solely based on how he behaves in lack, stressing “A broke man can be humble,” but that humility may be a result of circumstance, not conviction.
Suleman’s message has stirred conversations online, especially around relationships, marriage, and the role of financial power in revealing a person’s true values.
General Overseer of Christ Mercyland Deliverance Ministry, Prophet Jeremiah Fufeyin has called on believers to honour God with their first fruits, declaring it a divine principle for unlocking supernatural breakthroughs and testimonies.
Speaking passionately to his congregation, Fufeyin emphasised that anything first always goes with sacrifice, urging members to set aside their first income of the year as a sacred offering.
“Your first income is not ordinary,” he said. “Let it bend you. Try God with it.”
Referencing the story of Hannah, who gave her long-awaited son Samuel to God, Fufeyin explained that first fruits are not merely a religious tradition but a faith-driven act that opens doors to increase and divine favor.
He also highlighted the story of Jacob and Esau, teaching that spiritual awareness and willingness to give matter deeply in the eyes of God.
“Jacob understood the power of sacrifice. He acted on what he knew his father valued,” the Prophet said. “Because he moved first, he was the one who received the blessing.”
Prophet Jeremiah drew a powerful comparison between first fruits and Jesus Christ, describing Jesus as God’s first fruit to humanity. “Jesus came and died for you and me. What’s the result? Salvation. That’s the power of first fruit—it gives more than you expect.”
He concluded by reminding members to prepare their first fruits for the last Sunday of the month. For those unable to attend physically, church account details were made available for online giving.
“Life is a continuous exercise,” he added. “You don’t eat once and stop eating forever. Same thing with giving. Make it part of your walk with God.”
The video sparked some reactions online.
@TomiwaTheMan tweeted: “I used to think first fruits was optional, but now I see the spiritual depth. Thank you Papa J for breaking it down with scripture and fire!”
@Mbeng_fay wrote: “Omo! The way Prophet linked Jacob, Jesus and even 419 to first fruits got me thinking deep . First fruits truly carries serious spiritual weight. I’m not missing the last Sunday for anything.”
Gospel singer Princess Gillian Edenojie Isidahomen has said that to be a successful gospel singer requires high level of commitment to spirituality to receive direction from God and come up with songs capable of winning souls for God.
Speaking with journalists, Isidahomen, popularly known as Princess Gillian Gospel said there is no way a gospel singer can get inspiration for good spiritual songs without being deeply rooted spiritually.
According to her, gospel singers must try as much as possible to be closer to God at all times in order to consistently get direction on every decision they will make when composing songs.
The US-based gospel singer, while sharing details of her journey into gospel music said:”My inspiration to become a music artist started from my early childhood while singing in church. I was motivated by the ability of music to express emotions and unite people.
“My journey began with learning to play various instruments and experimenting with different genres, which helped me find my own voice in the vast world of music.
“I started as a choir since 1993 and since them I like gospel songs and I love singing praises to the Lord. I have released 10 singles since I started professionally as an artist in 2024.”
Commenting on different style of gospel music, Isidahomen said, “musicians have a clear vision and direction for their career from the outset, pursuing specific goals with intention. Others may find their path more organically, evolving their style, audience and objectives as opportunities arise and their interests develop
“Defining my musical style can be challenging as it blends elements from multiple genres, with a touch of soul. Influential artists for me are Sony Okosun, who sings both gospel all types of various music, Yolanda Adams and Pastor Shirley Caesar which I strive to emulate in my own work.”
The gospel musician will be celebrating her birth anniversary next month with a new video and audio song titled: “Thank you O Lord” to appreciate God for adding another year
Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Brigadier Buba Marwa(rtd) has commended the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM)and the General Overseer of the Church, Dr Daniel Olukoya for its social intervention in leading campaign against drug and substance abuse.
He hailed MFM for constantly opening its doors to NDLEA and giving their resources and prayers to to support NDLEA in fighting against drugs as well as counselling, treatment and rehabilitation of addicts.
Marwa made this known at a thanksgiving service in the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries, International Headquarters annex, Wuye ,Abuja.
The service was held as part of activities marking the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, with the theme “Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention.”
Marwa, who was represented by the NDLEA Secretary, Mr. Shadrach Haruna, said the impact of faith-based institution like MFM in combating crime cannot be over emphasised.
The Chairman noted that the MFM and NDLEA recently Collaborate On Drug Prevention, Treatment, Care by training all its Pastors, Ministers and Leaders on “Drug Prevention, Treatment and Care” . The training created awareness, equipped the participants with the skills to prevent drug use amongst young people and to offer necessary support to families and individuals who are struggling with addiction.
He called on other faith-based institutions, families, and corporate bodies to emulate MFM in intensifying their support for the prevention of drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking in Nigeria.
The NDLEA chairman also urged individuals already struggling with drug addiction to seek help through the agency’s 24/7 anonymous telephone help line: 0800- 1020 3040
He said: “MFM has positively demonstrated that churches can help in prevention as well as combating drugs and substance through their platforms . MFM has large congregation of young people and Pastors that are impacting positively on young people.”
Marwa emphasised the critical role of parents in drug abuse prevention, urging them to instil sound moral values in their children and support them in making the right choices.
He urged parents to help in prevention of dug use stressed that Prevention is the best way to combat illicit drugs, substance abuse and trafficking.
He said: “Prevention starts at home. Parents are the first line of defence. If values are instilled early, we can reduce drug use among young people, Every family has either been directly or indirectly affected by drug abuse. That’s why we must all rise, invest in prevention, and work together to save our youths and communities,”
Marwa noted that similar prayers and engagements were held in mosques earlier in the week as part of the agency’s inclusive and strategic outreach.
He reiterated the agency’s commitment to reducing drug use in the country, stressing that collective action, moral responsibility, and spiritual support were essential in combating the scourge.
The Senior Regional Overseer of Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries, International Headquarters Annex, Wuye, Abuja, Pastor Edwin Etomi said the vision and Passion of the General Overseer, Dr. Olukoya, is to see that souls are won to Christ, souls captured by Satan are snatched back for God.
He said MFM’s passion is to see that souls are transformed positively as well as become agents of transformation.
Etomi stressed that the Church has a Ministry to drug addicts and a centre, where addicts are prayerfully rehabilitated.
