The Nation Newspaper

Category: Sunday magazine

  • Akinadewo, Ogidan, others extol Fakeye’s legacy

    Akinadewo, Ogidan, others extol Fakeye’s legacy

    Religious leaders and clerics gathered in Lagos to pay glowing tributes to the late Prophet Gabriel Fakeye, founder of the Cherubim and Seraphim Movement, Surulere District, during the 10th Memorial Lecture held in his honour.

    The National President of the Organisation of African Instituted Churches (OAIC), Baba Aladura Dr. Israel Akinadewo, described Prophet Fakeye as a humble servant of God who left an enduring legacy within the Cherubim and Seraphim Movement.

    “Baba Fakeye was a highly respected man of God who led by example. He was one of the brightest stars in the Cherubim and Seraphim Church, and his contributions were noble and impactful. Even though we have different types of churches and diversities in doctrines, he remained a unifying figure,” Akinadewo said.

    He also recalled that Prophet Fakeye once served as President of the OAIC, emphasizing that his legacy will remain an indelible part of the church’s history.

    The General Secretary of OAIC, Rev. Nicta Lubaale, also extolled the late prophet, recalling his vital role as a member of the International Investment Committee of the OAIC.

    “Prophet Fakeye was a great leader, deeply committed to the church, OAIC, and society at large. His service will always be appreciated,” Lubaale said.

    He added that OAIC remains committed to strengthening church institutions, focusing on youth development, and ensuring quality education for ministers in member churches.

    In his lecture, Special Apostle Pastor Steve Ogidan highlighted the challenges Prophet Fakeye and other church fathers faced while modernizing and expanding the Cherubim and Seraphim Church, all while preserving its spiritual foundation laid by Saint Moses Orimolade, the church’s founder.

    Ogidan noted that Prophet Fakeye’s era demanded institutional development, educational advancement, and global outreach. Under his leadership, the church established several educational institutions, developed systematic prayer programs, and expanded internationally.

    “His ‘Voice of One Crying in the Wilderness’ program became a major platform for prophetic ministry and national influence. Despite their different approaches, Fakeye and Orimolade shared a strong commitment to prayer, fasting, and spiritual warfare,” Ogidan said.

    He added that Prophet Fakeye’s healing ministry, emphasis on personal holiness, and dedication to righteousness defined his leadership and spiritual impact.

    Reflecting on the prophet’s life, Ogidan called on the church to continue the mission Fakeye started, saying that his transition a decade ago was not the end but the beginning of a new chapter in the divine mandate he carried.

    “Today, we not only honor his memory but also rededicate ourselves to advancing the work he began. As we reflect on his legacy, let us remember his unwavering commitment to God’s word and his service to humanity,” Ogidan concluded.

    The event ended with prayers, hymns, and renewed commitments by attendees to uphold Prophet Fakeye’s values of faith, discipline, and service to God and humanity.

  • Transition from Illness to Health

    Transition from Illness to Health

    Text:  “And He healed many that were sick of divers diseases, and cast out many devils; and suffered not the devils to speak, because they knew Him – Mark 1: 34

    Henry O. Adelegan

    In a world where many face overwhelming physical, emotional, and spiritual trials, the timeless promise of healing and deliverance offers hope to all who are weary. The Gospel of Mark (1:34) tells us, “And He healed many that were sick of divers diseases, and cast out many devils…”—a vivid reminder that Jesus’ power to heal and set free is available to everyone. It therefore doesn’t matter the type of ill health you are encountering at such a time, I can confirm it to you, by reason of divine commission, that during this time of Lent, God is going to turn your situation around for His glory in the name of Jesus Christ.

    For countless individuals, the burden of disease and demonic oppression is a daily reality. From chronic illnesses to acute heartaches, many have exhausted their resources seeking healing. A recent tragedy—a young lady was lost to cancer despite numerous hospital visits and medical interventions—underscores the heartbreak of unmet expectations. Yet amid such pain, the good news remains that true healing comes through Jesus Christ.

    The Apostle Paul reminds us in Colossians 1:16-17 that “by Him were all things created…and by Him all things consist.” In other words, Jesus holds power over every aspect of our lives. Just as Job 14:7-8 poetically declares, “For there is hope for a tree, if it be cut down, that it will sprout again…” our lives, too, can be revived even when all seems lost.

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    Scripture further assures us that healing and deliverance are not reserved for a select few. Mark 1:32 illustrates how, as the sun set, people from all walks of life—suffering from various diseases and demonic oppression—brought their afflictions to Jesus. Whether the challenge is physical, financial, matrimonial, or spiritual, no ailment is too great for His healing power. When we present our brokenness before Him, Jesus responds with authority, dispelling every dark force and restoring hope.

    For those who have felt abandoned or ignored by conventional means, remember the promise in John 6:37: “Whosoever comes to Me, I will in no wise cast him out.” This invitation is for you. By simply believing that Jesus is near and willing to heal, you set the stage for a transformation that only divine grace can bring.

    To receive this healing and deliverance, the first step is to accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, becoming a child of God (John 1:12). In doing so, the Holy Spirit fills you with guidance and strength to live in obedience, paving the way for sustained breakthroughs in every area of your life—as promised in Acts 2:38-39.

    This Lenten season, let us open our hearts to the possibility of renewal. Amid personal struggles or broader societal challenges, hold steadfast to the truth that God’s power can turn despair into hope. Embrace His invitation, and witness how your life transforms—your pain replaced by purpose, and your darkness illuminated by His healing light. I am very confident, as the Lord lives, that the Almighty God, the Great healer, will visit all who are bound by powers of darkness and strange ailments, that God will release them and give healing and peace in the name of Jesus Christ.

    •Prayer: Jesus Christ, thank You for visiting me through Your Word. I open my heart to receive Your healing and deliverance. Restore my body, spirit, and soul, and let Your grace transform every area of my life. Amen.

  • Wale Oke vows to oppose enemies of Nigeria, unites fellowship

    Wale Oke vows to oppose enemies of Nigeria, unites fellowship

    The President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Bishop Wale Oke, has declared that the PFN will not only pray but also actively work against every enemy of Nigeria.

    He made this statement during the first press conference of the fellowship following his re-election for a second term.

    Oke emphasized that the PFN would not tolerate church leaders who deviate from the core doctrines of the Christian faith. He warned that it would no longer be business as usual for preachers who propagate messages contrary to the established teachings of the Christian body.

    Expressing concerns over the decision of some northern governors to shut down schools during Ramadan, Bishop Oke described the move as anti-progress and detrimental to the nation’s educational development.

    “The education of our children is fundamental to the protection of our nation. Closing schools for religious celebrations is inimical to the progress of our country,” he said.

    He pointed out that those who introduced the religion to Nigeria do not shut down their educational institutions for fasting purposes, stating, “We should not be more Catholic than the Pope.”

    The PFN leader urged the affected governors to reconsider their stance, emphasizing that education must remain a priority. “It is unfortunate that this is happening, but we are praying that God will grant them the wisdom to make the right decisions,” he added.

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    Oke reaffirmed the PFN’s role as a spiritual powerhouse with significant political and social influence in Nigeria. “PFN is strong, organized, and properly structured,” he noted.

    He also addressed concerns surrounding the recently concluded PFN elections, which sparked media speculation.

    “In the 40 years of PFN’s existence, we have never witnessed such controversy. It was a cause for concern,” he admitted.

    However, he praised the founding fathers and the National Advisory Council of the PFN for handling the situation with maturity, reinforcing the fellowship’s commitment to unity and discipline.

    “We are a body of spiritually mature, disciplined, and distinguished individuals. We do not engage in press wars. Our battles are fought on our knees before God, and we emerge victorious because our God never loses,” he stated.

    Oke pledged to foster greater unity within the PFN and uphold the vision of its founding fathers. He appreciated those who served in the previous executive while assuring that his leadership would remain inclusive and non-discriminatory.

    “We shall work together, regardless of tribe, race, region, or zone. PFN is a united body under God,” he declared.

    The PFN leader also promised that the fellowship would continue to use its spiritual influence to promote national prosperity.

    Oke further stressed that the PFN’s primary mission remains the Great Commission—spreading the gospel and making disciples of all nations.

    “We will pursue this divine mandate with wisdom, passion, and unwavering commitment,” he concluded.

  • Four Square GO’s wife’s marks birthday with ‘No to Crime’ concert

    Four Square GO’s wife’s marks birthday with ‘No to Crime’ concert

    Wife of the General Overseer of Foursquare Gospel Church, Rev Mrs Olabisi Aboyeji has marked her 65th birthday with a concert titled ‘No to crime’.

    The event was held at  Ojuelegba underbridge with a large number of street urchins in attendance.

    Explaining her reason for the concert, she said: “What inspired me was that some few days back when I thought about my 65th birthday,  I was praying and I asked God how He wanted me to celebrate this birthday. Then, He took me to Luke 24  where  a man sent his servants to go and invite people from various places  to come for the banquet but they gave excuses.

    “The man was told to go to the streets and bring them. When I asked where are the people that I am going to bring, He said bring  the poor, the needy, people who are not  easily reached with the gospel and I said where, and He said Ojuelegba under the bridge. Thereafter, I discussed with my district overseer of Surulere and that is why we are here today.”

    Continuing she said: “The theme of this programme is ‘say no to crime concert’. I said they need to be jeered up to praise the Lord. I decided to get a band, the people who can praise God and make them to be motivated to praise God.  That was what inspired me. During the time of praising the Lord, we can chip in the gospel because the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ transforms people. The gospel brings changes to life. Even if there is hopelessness in the lives of the people and they hear the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ, there is hope of change for them.  That prompted me to choose a  concert. From the concert, we can preach the gospel.”

    Read Also: The case for a Tinubu second term

    She listed poor upbringing of children as one of the root causes of crime in the society, adding:  “Some parents have neglected their duty concerning the upbringing of their children. Another cause is poverty, some children have no food. Even the parents that gave birth to them have nothing to give them.

    “They leave the children to go and fend for themselves in any way they can. The children go and steal, and commit different kinds of crimes because they need to eat.

    She noted that some people are possessed to do evil things.  “They are just possessed by the devil.  We believe that the yoke of that wickedness can only be broken by the power of God.”

    One of the urchins, Omotolani, said: “I am very excited about the service. I was very happy with the worship songs and the preaching of the pastor. I started crying when the pastor was sharing information about his past.

    “I remembered my lifestyle also because I am educated and my family is influential but at the end of the day, I found myself on the street. When the pastor said we can get salvation today, I cried to God and asked to be saved.  That was why I started crying. I told God I want to be somebody in this life.”

    Another street urchin who gave his name simply as Solomon, said: “I don’t normally go to church. This morning, I wanted to go and play Baba Ijebu like I usually do but I incidentally found myself here in the church. I can say I was the first person to get here. When they started singing worship songs I was moved by the spirit and I can tell you that I am the best dancer here today.

    “When the man of God was giving testimony about how he used to stay under the bridge, I said within me that God will also help me not to live under the bridge again.”

  • Massive crowd, miracles at Dunamis Maiduguri crusade

    Massive crowd, miracles at Dunamis Maiduguri crusade

    Maiduguri witnessed an overwhelming move of God as Dunamis International crusade evangelism held in the ancient city. 

    The crusade, led by Dr Paul & Becky Enenche, was characterised by  powerful healing, deliverance, and undeniable miracles. 

    Many Nigerians attested to these on social media. 

    @Gideon_Ayotunde, described the event as nothing short of divine. He wrote:”This is great impact, this is what we call impact, this is priceless, the land of Maiduguri is inspired against by Christ in hope.”

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    Another user, @Josh_Badmus, was deeply moved by the spiritual atmosphere of the crusade, stating:   “Watching this Dr Paul and Mummy Becky Enenche crusades, this Maiduguri Crusade tears me up, God is indeed intentional with what he is doing with Dunamis.”

    The Ramat squad, a key part of the evangelism movement, played a significant role in ensuring order and structure during the event. 

    Their efforts in mobilising and coordinating the massive crowd added to the effectiveness of the programme as many testified to a well-planned and spirit-filled atmosphere.  

    Many are calling for more revival programmes across Nigeria, believing that this is just the beginning of greater manifestations.

  • NCPC to airlift final batch of Christian pilgrims to Israel, Jordan March 20

    NCPC to airlift final batch of Christian pilgrims to Israel, Jordan March 20

    The Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC) has announced that the final batch of intending Christian pilgrims for the 2024 Main Pilgrimage Exercise will be airlifted to Israel and Jordan on March 20, 2025.

    Executive Secretary of the NCPC, Bishop Stephen Adegbite, disclosed this during a prayer devotion at the Commission’s Chapel in Abuja on Thursday, March 13, 2025.

    Read Also: Adegbite urges Christian pilgrims to stay focused during their exercise 

    He expressed joy over the successful departure of the 12th batch of pilgrims from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on March 12, confirming their safe arrival in Amman, Jordan.

    Bishop Adegbite thanked God for the smooth execution of the pilgrimage exercise since its commencement on December 22, 2024, and urged Nigerians to continue praying for President Bola Tinubu, First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and the success of the administration’s reforms.

    “I urge you all to pray for the success of Mr. President’s reformation programmes for Nigeria, the best is yet to come.” He said. 

    He expressed optimism that by the time the President crystallizes his plans for Nigeria, the country will be better for it.

  • Lagos pilgrims hold thanksgiving service, celebrate safe return from Israel, Jordan

    Lagos pilgrims hold thanksgiving service, celebrate safe return from Israel, Jordan

    The Lagos State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board held a thanksgiving service on Thursday, March 13, 2024, at the Chapel of Christ the Light, Ikeja, to celebrate the successful and smooth completion of the 2024 pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan.

    The event, themed “He Brought Us Back Rejoicing,” brought together pilgrims, government officials, and well-wishers to express gratitude for a safe journey and share testimonies of divine encounters.

    Lagos State First Lady, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, delivered a goodwill message, acknowledging initial concerns over the security situation in Gaza. 

    She expressed deep gratitude that all pilgrims returned safely without harm.

    Secretary of the Lagos State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mrs. Yetunde Gbafe, also commended the smooth execution of the pilgrimage, noting that both batches of pilgrims returned without any cases of abscondment. 

    She credited the success of the journey to the unwavering support of the Lagos state government and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to the board’s activities. 

    “We were able to go and we came back safe and sound. And people, they have very many testimonies for what God has done. When we came back, we counted and none was missing. 

    Read Also: Adegbite urges Christian pilgrims to stay focused during their exercise 

    “We also want to say a very big thank you to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, because he’s the one that has given us the enabling environment to be able to operate, without his enabling environment, we would not be able to perform. 

    “That’s why the state is actually a forerunner in all, in the pilgrimage exercise or in the pilgrimage leading. Everybody wants to come with Lagos State and it’s because of the governor that we have.”

    A key highlight of the thanksgiving service was the series of testimonies shared by the pilgrims. 

    First-time pilgrims spoke passionately about the miracles and spiritual encounters they experienced while in the holy land. 

    Some recounted moments of personal healing, breakthroughs, and a renewed sense of faith during their visit to sacred sites in Jerusalem and Jordan.

    The thanksgiving service underscored the significance of religious pilgrimages as a source of spiritual renewal and connection. 

  • Your Faith and Your Fate (3)

    Your Faith and Your Fate (3)

    Mark 6:5, 6 “He could not do any miracles there, except lay His hands on a few sick…He was amazed at their lack of faith.”

    By Henry O. Adelegan

    As we journey through this season of Lent—a time for reflection, renewal, and deep spiritual commitment—we are reminded of a simple yet profound truth: in the realm of God, faith is everything. In our walk with Christ, faith stands as the essential link connecting us to miracles, wonders, and blessings that our human eyes have not seen, our ears have not heard, and our minds can scarcely imagine.

    The Bible teaches us that without faith it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6). Far from being an abstract idea, faith is the very window through which God’s grace is made available. Believers are called to understand that tapping into the boundless grace of God—leading to extraordinary exploits and life-changing testimonies—requires an unwavering belief. As the Apostle Paul reminds us in Romans 5:2, “By whom we also have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.”. When God guides you into His grace, the forces that would otherwise disgrace you are overcome. You are lifted beyond your own limitations, your personal testimony becomes a powerful beacon, and you emerge not as a mere echo of others’ voices, but as a resonant voice in your community.

     In the realm of spiritual transformation, faith serves as the essential bridge connecting us to divine breakthroughs—economically, physically, and spiritually. As Hebrews 11:39 attests, “We have a good report through faith.” This truth is vividly illustrated in the biblical account of the woman with the issue of blood. Despite dire prognoses and dismal medical reports, her steadfast faith reversed her fate, proving that no matter how grim the outlook may be regarding our health, finances, marriage, or future, faith renders those obstacles insignificant. Truly, all things are possible to him who believes.

    Beyond overturning discouraging reports, faith liberates us from the chains that bind us. It is faith—not anxiety—that delivers us from chronic ailments, liberates us from bad habits, and frees us from addictions and oppressive forces. Through faith, what once seemed insurmountable is transformed: captives of powerful forces are set free, barriers are lifted, obstacles are removed, and even the dead are brought back to life. Faith opens doors to new beginnings—weddings are celebrated, families are restored, and career breakthroughs occur against all odds.

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    The Apostle Paul, who himself faced severe trials in both life and ministry, reminds us that before faith, the law served as our schoolmaster. However, with the advent of faith, we are no longer confined by those limitations (Galatians 3:23). This powerful message underscores the transformative potential of faith in every aspect of our lives.

    Beloved, I admonish you by the power of God to stop seeing impossibilities in your life or the life of any of your children. It is never over with a person of faith. In this year of Godly presence and great courage, people will gather to celebrate with your family. All that have disconnected from you shall return to you. Your testimonies will silence other testimonies. When you are giving your testimonies, other testimonies will bow in surrender. From this moment beloved, if you are not there, nothing is permitted to happen there. Stop seeing impossibilities in your marriage, health, church and in Nigeria. God is going to arise for you and things are going to turn around for your good on all sides in the name of Jesus Christ.

    As we reflect during this season of Lent, let us embrace the truth that faith is not merely a belief but a dynamic force that changes our fate. With unwavering faith, even the most daunting challenges can be overcome, and every report of defeat becomes a prelude to testimony and triumph. This shall be your testimony in the name of Jesus Christ.

    Prayer: Father Lord, increase my faith and open the gateway to my full restoration in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

  • Otu joins Enenche in prayer session for Cross River

    Otu joins Enenche in prayer session for Cross River

    Cross River Governor Bassey Otu was part of a crowd at the UNICAL Int’l conference Centre for a special prayer session for the State. 

    The session took place during the Calabar Crusade 2025 miracle organised by Dr Paul Enenche of The Dunamis Commission. 

    The crusade recorded various miracles, signs and wonders with the social media agog with comments. 

    @SamsonUgoChuks said: “Pastor Paul Enenche crusades have been trending online lately, at least bloggers are now seeing good about the church, I hear say they don’t collect offerings or tithes in these crusades..? True?”

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    @IvieOsinachi responded: “They have no choice, only fools will doubt the raw power of God in the lives of his servants, Daddy and Mummy Enenche, packed out crusades every-time without collecting an offering, all expenses paid, that’s absolutely God”. 

    Enenche was seen praying with Otu for the peace and prosperity of Cross River. 

  • The Power of Faith in Jesus (1)

    The Power of Faith in Jesus (1)

    Text: “He could not do any miracles there, except lay His hands on a few sick people and heal them. He was amazed at their lack of faith.” – Mark 6:5-6

    Henry O. Adelegan

    Faith is the foundation of the supernatural. Where faith is absent, supernatural experiences remain an illusion. Without faith, things take a natural course, but when faith is activated, the supernatural becomes a reality. Faith is the bridge that connects our expectations to testimonies. As the Scripture declares: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”(Hebrews 11:1)

    In the preceding chapter of our text, Jesus encountered a woman who had suffered from an issue of blood for twelve years. She had exhausted her resources seeking medical help, but her condition worsened. When she heard that Jesus was in town, she resolved in her heart that if she could touch the hem of His garment, she would be healed. Despite the insults and physical obstacles from the crowd, she pressed on, determined to reach Jesus. The moment she touched His garment, her faith made her whole, and the issue of blood ceased instantly. Similarly, as Jesus journeyed to the house of Jairus to heal his sick daughter, news arrived that the girl had died. Despite this, Jesus, recognizing Jairus’ unwavering faith, proceeded to the room where the girl lay. He took her by the hand and said, “Talitha koum,”meaning “Little girl, I say to you, arise.” Immediately, the girl rose from the dead.

    In our text, Jesus returned to His hometown of Nazareth, but the people had limited faith. They acknowledged that He was the son of Mary and that He had siblings. They knew Him as a carpenter, but their faith stopped there. They did not believe in Him as the Son of God or recognize His divine power. As a result, Jesus could not perform many miracles among them.

    Jesus said, “All things are possible to him who believes.” (Mark 9:23) Faith is the game-changer; it alters fate. It is not the length of prayers that brings answers, but the depth of faith behind them. Faith is the key that grants us access to God’s grace. Without faith, grace remains unreachable. But when faith is in place, disgrace is removed, elevation occurs beyond human competence, and divine testimonies manifest.

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    Faith is the conveyor of good reports—economic, physical, and spiritual. Hebrews 11:39 confirms that faith leads to divine commendation. Faith Brings Deliverance and Breakthrough; it delivers from sickness, bad habits, addictions, and oppression. Through faith captives of the mighty are set free, embargoes are lifted, stones are rolled away and whatever or whosoever was declared dead comes back to life. With faith, marriages experiencing challenges are restored, naming ceremonies are announced and career breakthroughs emerge. (Galatians 3:23-25; Matthew 17:20; 2 Corinthians 4:16-18, MSG)

    As Romans 5:2 reminds us, by faith we “rejoice in hope of the glory of God.” Whether overcoming personal challenges in marriage, health, or financial hardship, or even witnessing the turnaround of a nation, faith empowers believers to see beyond the immediate and trust in God’s promise of a better tomorrow.

    During this season, as believers embrace the solemnity of Lent, you are encouraged to nurture your relationship with Jesus Christ, to meditate on His Word, and to declare His promises over every aspect of your life. In doing so, the barriers of doubt and despair fall away, your mountains shall be removed, God will open a new chapter of peace and ease for you, hitherto challenging issues of life shall turn into testimonies and the glory of Nigeria shall be restored in the name of Jesus. revealing a future marked by new beginnings and everlasting hope.

    •Prayer: Father Lord, please increase my faith and open the gateway to my full restoration in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.