The Nation Newspaper

Category: Sunday magazine

  • Price fixing: FG seeks traders’ cooperation, introduces interactive portal

    Price fixing: FG seeks traders’ cooperation, introduces interactive portal

    To curb price fixing and other unethical practices, the Federal Competition and Consumers Protection Commission (FCCPC) has appealed to stakeholders in the economy’s production and distribution value chain to join forces with the government.

    The agency has also created an interactive portal for complaints.

    The call was made by FCCPC boss, Mr. Tunji Bello, in Lagos while addressing the captains of large/small-scale industries, leaders of market associations, transport operators, and service providers, at a town hall meeting hosted by the commission.

    According to him, the one-day stakeholders’ engagement on exploitative pricing, held at the Oregun area of Lagos, was necessitated by startling discoveries made by the commission during a nationwide survey.

    “We discovered that some traders form cartels in the markets and put barriers in the form of ridiculous membership fees intended to ensure price fixing in the market. “Without joining them, they won’t allow anyone to sell goods in the market or provide services. Such practices are against the law and constitute some of the offences the Commission is against,” said the FCCPC boss.

    Continuing,  he said, “The purpose of the town-hall meeting initiative is to engage you the stakeholders in the production and retail segment of the market as well as service providers, to hear your own stories, to achieve a consensus for the benefit of all of us.”

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    The Lagos stakeholders’ meeting was a sequel to the one held in Abuja two weeks ago.

    The FCCPC initiative is coming at a time when Nigerians are experiencing sharp increases in the prices of food items and transportation costs across the country.

    While acknowledging that the exchange rate and the increase in petrol price has made the old prices unsustainable, Bello however, frowned at disproportionate increases in the prices of food items which he said are often perpetrated by ‘cartels’ to exploit consumers.

    Even though sections of the law empower the commission to deal decisively with offenders, Bello said FCCPC chose to first explore the option of dialogue to arrive at a consensus to deal with the growing trend.

    Section 17 of the FCCPC Act empowers the Commission to eliminate anti-competitive practices, misleading, unfair, deceptive, or unconscionable marketing, trading, and business practices. It prescribes sanctions including a fine of up to N10m and a jail term of three years for anyone found guilty by the court.

    To facilitate a better engagement, Bello disclosed that the FCCPC had upgraded its portal through which aggrieved consumers could lodge complaints and their grievances would be addressed promptly.

    On the economic outlook, Bello stated that the removal of taxes on imported food items, pharmaceutical products, and transportation was part of measures being taken by Tinubu’s administration to cushion the effects of the reforms introduced to reposition the Nigerian economy.

    He sought the cooperation of the traders to ensure that the consumers get the benefits through reduced prices.

    “Such laudable measures by President Tinubu would however be in vain if the benefits are not passed down to the consumers,” said Bello.

    The Executive Commissioner, Operations, FCCPC, Dr. Abdullahi Adamu, emphasised during his welcome address that the purpose of the stakeholders’ engagement was to tackle sharp practices and address the role of market associations in contributing to price hikes of goods and services.

    Adamu highlighted that President Tinubu’s administration is committed to reducing the cost of goods and services, urging stakeholders to collaborate with the government to find amicable solutions.

    “The government of President Tinubu is interested in bringing the prices of goods and services down,” he stated, calling on stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue to achieve this goal.

    Speaking at the event, the Iyaloloja General of Nigeria, Folasade Tinubu-Ojo, echoed these sentiments, urging traders to refrain from exploitative pricing practices.

    She called on the traders to support the government’s efforts by being considerate in their pricing.

    “We need to assist the government in forcing down the prices of goods and services by being considerate and shunning the tendencies to make abnormal profits,” she said.

    The General Manager of the Lagos State Consumers Protection Agency (LASCOPA), Mr. Afolabi Sholebo, also weighed in, questioning the logic behind punitive pricing practices. “Why are we punishing ourselves? If we love ourselves so much, why are we punishing ourselves?” he asked.

    Sholebo expressed concern over the influence of market associations that often pressured traders into maintaining high prices, even when some are willing to sell at cheaper rates.

    “There is always a gang-up against some traders who decide to sell their goods and services at cheaper rates through market associations,” he lamented.

    He further emphasized the need for a shift in mindset regarding pricing.

    “We have to consider this issue of pricing. This is not the time to start arresting people. We know what is happening—some of us are our own enemies. Some people buy at cheaper prices and sell at exorbitant rates. We cannot blame the government for everything,” Sholebo concluded.

  • Mamador urges women to strive for wholesome health, maximise financial opportunities

    Mamador urges women to strive for wholesome health, maximise financial opportunities

    Mamador, a leading premium food brand in Nigeria in vegetable oil has called on Nigerian women to give utmost priority to their wholesome health and maximize the opportunities available with their financial resources.

    This was the submission of the Head of Marketing, PZ Wilmar, Chioma Mbanugo who delivered the welcome remarks during the 5th edition of its annual August Meeting held in Lagos.

    Speaking on the theme titled, ‘Nourish to Flourish: Elevating Health and Wealth,’ Mbanugo noted that the annual August Women meeting by Mamador is not only a communal gathering but a notable platform to celebrate women for their roles and contribution to society.

    She described the August Women meeting as a laudable gesture that attests to the power of togetherness.  “As a brand, Mamador is committed to the financial and physical well-being of Nigerian women nationwide. The old saying that ‘Health is Wealth’ encapsulates our presence here and explains why we should prioritize our health while we try to build wealth. We appreciate everyone for joining us to celebrate Nigerian women who regardless of the limitations or barriers are the epitome of diligence, resilience, and relentless quest for success,” she said.

    Speaking on the topic’ Parenting in this Generation,’ certified Family and Parenting Coach, Sandra Oluwadare explained that women owe it a duty as shapers and moulders of destinies to be intentional in the way and manner they raise kids.

    Oluwadare emphasized the need for women to take care of themselves to enable them to confront threats that can hinder them from effectively parenting their kids.

    She stated that with the right vision, values, and system and nurturing connection for bonding and influence, women can deliver on their roles as effective parents amidst threats such as digital overload, online safety, social media influence, changing family dynamics, social and academic pressure, and work-life integration among others.

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    Lending his voice on the topic titled, ‘Health and Food Choices,’ health influencer and medical doctor, Egemba Chinonso, popularly known as Aproko Doctor stated that women must endeavor to eat or consume healthy foods if they want to live a healthy life.

    Also speaking, award-winning dancer and fitness coach, Kaffy Shafau remarked that women’s minds are critical in keeping healthy lifestyles, urging them to keep fit and take care of their mental health.

    Speaking on the topic ‘Wealth and the Woman,’ finance and wealth coach, Sola Adesakin tasked women to understand their priorities and map them out according to their finances.

    According to Adesakin, 50% of their earnings should be invested in what they consider necessary while 30% and 20% should be channeled toward savings and personal care and development respectively.

    Commenting on the topic ‘You are a Business,’ certified financial education instructor, Tomie Balogun stressed the need for aspiring women entrepreneurs to have a good understanding of business structure and figures as these remain the foundation for sustainable growth, decision-making, and overall success of any business.

  • NAFDAC warns against  use of Dove beauty cream bar soap

    NAFDAC warns against  use of Dove beauty cream bar soap

    The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control [NAFDAC] has ordered the recall of Dove Beauty Cream Bar Soap (100g) with batch number 81832M 08, produced in Germany, due to the presence of a chemical impurity

    According to NAFDAC, the product contains Butylphenyl Methylpropional (BMHCA), also known as Lilial, a chemical associated with serious health risks, including reproductive harm and potential harm to unborn children.

    “The product does not comply with the Cosmetic Products Regulation, as it contains Butylphenyl Methylpropional (BMHCA), which is prohibited due to its risks of reproductive harm, danger to unborn children, and potential for causing skin sensitization,” NAFDAC said in a statement.

    Read Also: Shettima, Atiku attend APC, PDP final Edo Gov campaigns

    The agency warned that several regulatory authorities in the EU have already banned the marketing of products containing BMHCA, and urged the public to be cautious and vigilant within the supply chain to avoid the importation, distribution, sale, and use of the products.

     Other Dove cosmetic products recalled/banned in other countries due to the presence of BMHCA are Derma Spa Goodness, Men Care, Men Care+ Sensitive Shield, Natural Touch, Nourishing Body Care Light Hydro, Pampering Body Lotion, Go Fresh, Talco con Crema, Go fresh Pera, Extra Fresh, Goodness3 Skincare Ritual, invisible dry antiperspirant spray + Go Fresh Revitalize nourishing shower gel, Caring hand wash and invisible dry.

    The agency said the soaps are not on its database.

  • Terra Cube excites consumers nationwide

    Terra Cube excites consumers nationwide

    Terra Seasoning Cube’s Unwrap Your Smile campaign has been spreading joy and positivity across Nigeria.

    Launched as a heartwarming initiative, the campaign encourages Nigerians to embrace the power of a smile, even in the face of daily challenges.

    The campaign has deeply resonated with consumers. Nkechi Azuka, a participant, shared, “This campaign brings solace to me. Despite everyday challenges, it reminds me to choose to smile and spread smiles to those around me. It’s a small action, but it brings light to my life and others.”

    As part of the campaign, Terra Cube invited Nigerians to nominate small business owners making an impact in their local communities.

    Hundreds of nominations poured in, showcasing individuals who support their neighbourhoods through affordable services and acts of kindness.

    Terra even took the campaign to the streets of Lagos, engaging people in activities like tongue twisters, singing, and rap challenges. These fun interactions brought smiles to participants’ faces, and many were rewarded with gifts, spreading even more joy.

    Read Also: CBN will be limited without autonomy, group rejects proposed amendment by NASS

    Probal Bhattacharya, Chief Marketing Officer, TGI Group, also highlighted the campaign’s success: “Terra Cube’s Unwrap Your Smile initiative aims to spread joy and positivity in everyday life. As a brand dedicated to Unwrapping Joy, Terra believes that a simple smile can have a profound impact. By harnessing the power of a smile, we can create a ripple effect of happiness & joy and uplift those around us.”

    The campaign extended to social media with a live Instagram session hosted by Chioma Akpotha. Hundreds of participants joined the session, where Akpotha spoke about the importance of smiling and encouraged viewers to Unwrap Their Smile daily.

    Olaolu Jegede, another supporter, praised Terra Seasoning Cube for positively impacting Nigerians’ mindset. “I’m impressed with how Terra inspires the spread of smiles. Many Nigerians are stressed, but this campaign reminds us that sometimes a smile is all we need to ease the burden.”

    The success of Unwrap Your Smile lies not only in the joy it spreads but also in the connections it fosters. By celebrating everyday heroes and spreading positivity, Terra Seasoning Cube continues to nourish both the body and the spirit of Nigerians.

    Terra Seasoning Cubes are made up of wholesome, carefully sourced essential ingredients specially designed to meet the discerning Nigerian consumers’ needs in every meal, offering great taste, flavour, and aroma for that unique cuisine experience. Every meal cooked with Terra guarantees an enjoyable meal and a rich signature homemade taste experience.

  • Rite Foods builds capacity of young tech professionals

    Rite Foods builds capacity of young tech professionals

    Digital natives and tech savvy young Nigerians gained additional skill sets at the just concluded test festival sponsored by Rites Foods Limited.

    The event with the theme, “Making Quality Tech’s Universal Language” was organised by The Bug Detective for young Nigerians especially software developers, quality assurance testers and engineers, software engineers, mobile engineers, as well as those in the technology ecosystem.

    At Test Fest 2024, Bigi, with its 13 exciting flavours, refreshed tech professionals with its unique flavors, perfectly aligning with its current campaign, Explore Your Flavours.

    Speaking on Bigi’s support for the Test Festival, Ms. Biola Aransiola, Brand Manager for Bigi at Rite Foods Limited, emphasised Rite Foods’ commitment to quality, noting how it is reflected in the meticulous production of their products at the state-of-the-art factory at Ososa.

    Read Also: Shettima, Atiku attend APC, PDP final Edo Gov campaigns

    She emphasised how the Bigi brand serves as a reliable partner for tech professionals, providing high-quality snacks that keep them energised and focused as they work. “Bigi is all about supporting those who push boundaries, ensuring they have the refreshment they need to keep going,” she stated.

    Commenting on the significance of the event, Ms. Abiola Rasaq, Founder of The Bug Detective, explained that the annual Test Festival, which debuted in September 2023, provides a platform for software quality assurance engineers, testers, developers, and data analysts across the tech ecosystem to prioritise quality in their work. “The festival encourages professionals in various sectors to think quality-first in everything they do,” Rasaq noted.

    She also commended Bigi for its vital contribution to the festival’s success. “Without Bigi, this event wouldn’t have been as vibrant. We’re grateful for the drinks, water, sausages, and games—your support made all the difference,” she expressed.

  • Embrace righteousness, Olukoya’s wife urges youths

    Embrace righteousness, Olukoya’s wife urges youths

    Wife of the General Overseer of the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM) Mrs. Folashade Olukoya has called on the youths and young adults to embrace God and righteousness to enable them attain the greatest level that God has destined for them.

    She called on the youths to desist from sexual immorality, which she said is a mean the devil is using to steal their virtues and God-given potential.

    Olukoya, who ministered at a special youth programme in the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries, Magodo Youth Church, Region 28, Lagos State, on the theme ‘Taking possession of the gate for your next level,’ stressed that youths and young adults could only achieve lasting greatness by God’s power.

    She explained that there was no crooked mean to achieve one’s divine greatness unless through God, and daily renewal of one’s mind with the word of God, through prayers, as well as welcoming positive thoughts in line with God’s agenda for one’s lives.

    She insisted that only Christian youths that have have overcome sins, carnality and the devil could attain God’s divine greatness for their lives.

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    She, however told the youths to stand in boldness against every unrighteous sinful nature and acts which the devil is using to trample on them.

    She admonished youths to be careful of what enters their brain and mouth, and use different parts of their body to glorify God.

    She revealed the passion of the General Overseer, MFM worldwide, Dr. Daniel Olukoya and the church in ensuring that youths and young adults were captured for Christ, with different deliverance programmes to enable them fulfil God’s purpose in their lives.

    She added that the vision for youth churches in MFM is to rescue young men and women from the destructive agenda of the devil, transform lives with astonishing testimonies and save lost souls, giving  joy and hope to the hopeless.

    On his part, the Regional Overseer in charge of MFM Magodo Youth Church, Pastor Kayode Adekunle Elijah, said the church was aligned with the vision of the General Overseer for establishing youth churches.

    He added that through various programmes and ministrations in the church, many youths have given their lives to Jesus Christ. “Youths from the clubs are now established in the church, prostitutes have likewise turned from darkness to light,” he said.

    He revealed that God has used the church to rescue young Nigerians from various ills bedevilling them, and to help youths to discover their God’s given purpose on earth.

    Kayode said the youth church which started a few years ago has transformed and moulded, as well as remoulded many destinies for good. He said God has given career, business and academic breakthroughs to members of the youth church through several deliverance prayer programmes and biblical teachings.

    He said as a result, the church records a large gathering of youths, trooping in every service day, all to God’s glory.

    On Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Kayode said the church has established food bank initiatives for widows and the needy in the church and in the community. Through this, the pastor said different food items are given to the needy on a regular basis.

    He said the church constantly embarks on free medical outreaches where both members and non-members of the church benefit.

    To ensure that youths upgrade to the 21st century digital world, Kayode added that the church put in place digital and tech boot camps for young people and empowerment seminars for career and businessmen and women.

  • Nine trending Nigerian gospel singers

    Nine trending Nigerian gospel singers

    Many gospel singers have demonstrated love and faith of God through music.

    They lift souls and bring down God’s Kingdom.

    Below are nine gospel singers making waves in Nigeria:

    1. Tim Godfrey:

    Timothy Chukwudi Godfrey was born on August 26 in 1980 to the family of Mr. and Mrs. Victor Godfrey in Kaduna. He is the second of six children. He had his primary education in Kaduna although he hails from Anambra State.

    He got an honorary Doctorate degree in Fine Art and Musicology at the Trinity International University of Ambassadors, Georgia, USA in 2018.

    Tim Godfrey is the convener of the annual Fearless Gospel Concert, which has hosted several international gospel artists, including Marvin Sapp, Kirk Franklin, Travis Greene, Israel Houghton, JJ Hairston, Sammie Okposo and others.

    In 2018, Tim Godfrey featured Travis Greene in the breakout hit song, Nara, which has earned over 111 million views on Youtube. In 2019, he featured Israel Houghton on the single, Toya and collaborated with JJ Hairston on the single Onaga off the latter’s album.

    Tim Godfrey got married on Saturday, 23 April 2022 to his fiancé Erica, who he had proposed to on Valentine’s day.

    2. Mercy Chinwo:

    Mercy Nnenda Chinwo popularly known as Mercy Chinwo was born on September 5 1991 in Rivers State. Mercy Chinwo gained recognition through her participation in music talent show, “Nigerian Idol.”

    She was a contestant on the second season of the show in 2012 and emerged as the winner, which significantly boosted her career. Her victory on Nigerian Idol provided a platform for her to launch her music career, particularly in the gospel music genre.

    Several years after, she was signed to EeZee Conceptz in 2017. She got her first school leaving certificate at the Goodwill International School and her secondary school education at Paradise International School.

    She is an alumna of the International Business Management Institute (IBMI) where she bagged a degree in Human Resources Management. She started singing at age 6 in her church children’s choir. She got married on 13 August 2022 in Port Harcourt to Pastor Blessed Uzochikwa; they lived in Lagos, Nigeria. In 2023, they had their first child together.

    Chinwo’s single ‘Excess Love’ was released in 2018. Chinwo released her first single, “Testimony” in 2015, and “Igwe”. Two years later, she was signed to a gospel record label named EeZee Conceptz led by EeZee Tee.

    Chinwo is a gospel music minister. Since breaking into the gospel scene, she has been featured on a number of gospel music projects, working with the likes of JJ Hairson, Nathaniel Bassey, Chioma Jesus, Banky W, Joe Praize, Samsong, Moses Bliss, Oluwadunsin Oyekan, Judikay, Preye Odede and a host of others.

    In 2023, she alongside her husband began the MercyisBlessed Foundation, an NGO focused on donations to the less privileged as well as youth development.

    3. Moses Bliss:

    Moses Uyoh Enang was born on February 20, 1995. He is popularly known as Moses Bliss. He started to show interest in music from a very young age. By the age of 5, he was already learning and playing musical instruments. Later on, he joined the choir at Believers’ Loveworld church.

    Moses Bliss officially started his music career in 2017 with the debut single “E No Dey Fall My Hand”. In 2019, he released the song ‘Too Faithful’ and followed it up in 2020 with the single ‘Bigger Everyday’. His first album “Too Faithful” was released in May 2021 and comprised 13 tracks including “Taking Care”, “Perfection” and “E No Dey Fall My Hand”. In February 2023, he released his sophomore album titled “More Than Music (Transcendent Worship”, also comprising 13 tracks.

    In October 2021, he was signed by “Symphonic Distribution”, a music distribution company in Florida, United States. In February 2023, he unveiled his record label Spotlite Nation and signed four artists: Chizie, Festizie, Doris Joseph, and Grace Lokwa. Every year Bliss holds a musical concert. This concert is known as Bliss Experience.

    Moses Bliss has a clothing brand in Abuja Nigeria known as Shades of Bliss. This brand produces classical wears for males.

    In January 2024, Moses Bliss announced his engagement to Ghanaian London-based lawyer, Marie Wiseborn. Moses Bliss married Marie Wiseborn on 3 March 2024.

    4. Dunsin Oyekan:

    Dunsin was born in Ilorin to the family of Gbadebo Oyekan, the General Overseer of Evangelical Baptist Church. He began playing the guitar at age 10, encouraged by his father who once led ‘Spiritual Singers’, a music group that focused on experiencing God through worship.

    Dunsin studied Industrial Chemistry at the University of Ilorin, Kwara, Nigeria and, in 2014, God called him fully into the worship ministry.

    Dunsin’s life is dedicated to bringing the God dimension into the world through sounds imparted to him by the Holy Spirit. His passion is worshipping Jesus and leading others closer to Him through music. For over two decades, he has birthed revelationary songs, sang in choirs, and served as a music director. He is a full-time worshipper who has released five albums — ‘Code Red’, ‘Kingdom Now’, ‘The Gospel of the Kingdom’, ‘The Glory Experience – Songs of Zion’, and ‘The Birth of Revival’.

    Fondly called “the Eagle”, Dunsin’s desire is to fill the atmosphere with the heart of God, witness God, and stir revival platformed on the power and wisdom of God. He does this through singing, playing the keyboard and guitar, and teaching the word of God.

    He is the convener of Upper Room, a weekly worship experience, The Outpouring, a revival meeting, and Code Red, an annual worship experience.

    Dunsin Oyekan is a devoted family man. He was married to his beloved wife, Adedoyin Oyekan, from February 2, 2013, until the Lord called her to glory on May 18, 2019. They are blessed with two lovely children.

    5. Yinka Alaseyori:

    Known for her energetic dance steps and deep cultured worship in her native language, Adeyinka Alaseyori obtained her stage name from her first Album in 2012 titled Alaseyori Mi.

    A native of Ondo state, a region in the southwestern part of Nigeria.

    A trained accountant and entrepreneur, Adeyinka Alaseyori came to limelight with her hit singles Arojinle and Aye Ope Yo. She has to her credit Four music Albums titled: Alaseyori Mi, Alaabo Mi, Arojinle and Aye Ope Yo.

    Alaseyori is a voice in the new generation gospel music ministry, whom with the help of God has redefined how gospel music ministry is viewed in Nigeria and across the world.

    She is the first of her parents four children, born in Lagos into the family of Hon Adeshina Adesioye and Mrs. Funmilayo Ogunfunwa. Adeyinka Alaseyori is a Nigerian contemporary gospel music minister, with a unique gift of sound and deep-rooted Yoruba worship. A high school skilled batá dancer with a captivating smile.

    Adeyinka Alaseyori had her primary education at Holy Trinity Nursery and Primary school Ebute Meta and her secondary education at Methodist Girl High School, Sabo, Yaba before proceeding to Lagos state polytechnic for her national diploma in Accounting and currently pursuing her B.sc from the National Open university of Nigeria (Final Year).

    A lover of God from childhood, you will be correct to call her a child evangelist as Adeyinka Alaseyori started ministering at age Eight (8) to and fro, inside the convention buses across any part of Nigeria where the convention was being held. She started her music ministry (Halleluyah Praise Team) officially between 2010 and 2011, recorded and released her first Album in December 2012 titled Alaseyori Mi (Where she coined her stage name Adeyinka Alaseyori).

    Adeyinka Alaseyori worked as a nursery school teacher and as an account clerk across different industries before dropping all for music full time. She is the convener of the 21 days covenant worship (virtual) that features several gospel music ministers across the country.

    She’s married to Prince Akinyemi Ademola David (From the Ako ruling house, Imesi Ile Osun state) and their marriage is blessed with two kids (A boy and a girl).

    6. Nathaniel Bassey:

    Nathaniel Bassey was born August 27, 1981. He is a Nigerian singer, pastor, trumpeter and gospel songwriter popularly known for his songs “Imela”, “Onise Iyanu”, and “Olowogbogboro.”

    Over the years, Bassey has established himself as one of the prominent and most listened-to gospel ministers in Nigeria.

    His music spans across different genres such as jazz, worship, hymns and medley. He attends The Redeemed Christian Church Of God and pastors The Oasis Lagos, the youth church of the RCCG Kings Court in Victoria Island, Lagos.

    Bassey was born in Lagos. He is originally from Ikot Ofon Ikono, Uyo local government area in Akwa-Ibom State. Mr. E. Joshua Bassey, his father, was a minister in the Apostolic Church Bashua Assembly.

    He studied international relations and politics at the University of Lagos before moving to London to study politics thereafter. Conversely, he studied music at the Middlesex University Summer School.

    7. Sunmisola Agbebi:

    Sunmisola Elizabeth Agbebi Okeleye well known as “Sunmisola Agbebi” (born 2 May 1998) is a singer, songwriter and worship leader.

    In November 2020, she released her debut single titled “Amazing” but gained popularity in 2020 with the hit single “Koseunti”, a reworked version of an old Christ Apostolic Church worship song.

    Sunmisola Agbebi started singing at a very early age and had her first music performance at the age of four. In 2017, she was declared the winner of the Ikorodu Radio Music Challenge.

      In October 2022, Sunmisola organized a live recording music concert titled, “AIIIH” meaning “As It Is In Heaven” at the Charis Event Center, Lagos State.

      At the concert, she released a modified version of the hit song “My Daddy My Daddy” featuring the original singer Lawrence Oyor. In November 2022, she was invited to perform a song titled “The Garden of Our Heart” at the Dubai Expo alongside Grammy award winner, A R Rahman and the Firduas Orchestra.

      In December 2022, she also performed at an annual Christmas concert with musician Joe Mettle. In April 2023, she was featured by Folabi Nuel in a song titled “He’s Alive”

      On 2 March 2023, Sunmisola got engaged to her co-gospel singer, Yinka Okeleye in an enclosed private ceremony.

      They had their marriage introduction on 5 March 2023 at her residence in Lagos State, Nigeria and got married on the 3rd of June 2023.

      8. Sinach;

      Osinachi Kalu Okoro Egbu, known professionally as Sinach. She was born 30 March 1972 . Sinach is a Nigerian singer, songwriter and senior worship leader, serving in this capacity for over 30 years. She is the first singer-songwriter to top the Billboard Christian Songwriter chart for 12 weeks in a row.

      Her song “Way Maker” received three nominations and won the Song of the Year at the 51st GMA Dove Awards, making her the first Nigerian to win the Award. She also won the BMI song of the year, and in 2021 was recognized by the US Congress while on tour in the United States of America.

        She has released 9 studio albums with several other hit songs, including “I Know Who I Am”, “Great Are You Lord”, “Rejoice”, “He Did It Again”, “Precious Jesus”, “The Name of Jesus”, “This Is My Season”, “Awesome God”, “For This”, “I Stand Amazed”, “Simply Devoted” and “Jesus is Alive”.

        “Way Maker” has also piled up many recognition and awards since it was released in 2015. The visuals for Way Maker is currently the second most watched Nigerian music video on YouTube.

        In March 2019, it became the third Nigerian video to have garnered 100 million views on YouTube behind Davido’s “Fall” and Yemi Alade’s “Johnny”. “Way Maker” has been covered by over 60 Christian artists such as Michael W. Smith, Darlene Zschech, Leeland, Bethel Music, and Mandisa and in many languages.

        In the first few weeks of the Coronavirus pandemic and lockdown in 2020, Way Maker was the go to song, as several viral videos in hospitals, parks were made with large numbers of people singing the song.

        After being on the Christian Copyright Licensing International top 100 chart for several months in 2020, it claimed the No. 1 position in June and had remained so till December 2020, making it the most played song in churches across the United States for 2020.

        Sinach received a Bethlehem Hall of Faith certificate of commemoration during her visit to Israel in December 2017.

        In September 2019, Sinach became the first gospel artist from Africa to tour India, headlining concerts with several thousands in attendance. In May 2020, she became the first African artist to top the Billboard Christian Songwriters chart. In July 2022, she joined the Grammy Recording Academy as a voting member.

        In February 2023, the government of the Commonwealth of Dominica awarded Sinach as global ambassador, via a letter signed by the Prime Minister, Roosevelt Skerrit.

        9. Lillian Nneji:

        Lilian Nneka Nneji popularly known as Lilian Nneji, is a Female Gospel singer, songwriter, worship leader and recording Artist. Lilian, an Energetic Praise Leader was born on July 18 . She is the 5th child in a family of Six children and from IMO State Nigerian,

          She has written several songs, telling of the importance of serving God and living a life of holiness. Lilian Nneji released her first album Titled Anointed Praise (Praise Medley) in 2011, she believes in writing from her heart and knowing what the Spirit of God is saying to the Church.

          She’s Popularly known for her igbo songs rendition at the RCCG monthly programmes

          She’s fondly called Odogwu and Praise machine. She is also one of the lead singers in The Redeemed Christian Church of God National Mass Choir. She has graced the stage with Gospel greats like Nathaniel bassey, Pastor Kunle Ajayi, Bukola Bekes etc.

          She has ministered in several RCCG churches, other denominations and one of music ministers at the Reinhard Bonke Farewell Crusade. She is an advocate of Holy Living and a teacher of the word of God. She serves as the Music Director/Worship Leader at (RCCG Lagos Province 2) and coordinates a music band called ‘Anointed Praise Team’ which plays at weddings, birthday, and other events.

          Lilian Nneji is happily married to Pastor Joshua Nneji, a Parish Pastor in the RCCG and blessed with three amazing children. Minister Lilian Nneji is mostly inspired by the ministry of the Word by her Pastor, The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye.

          Lilian Nneji is greatly motivated with the desire to see her songs, writings and concerts inspire the church and the whole world to worship God, while they are lifted and healed. She hopes that her listeners will be filled with the Glory of God through her music.

        1. WOMEN AS ENDANGERED SPECIES: Unending tales of gruesome murder, rape scourge, kidnapping of ladies for rituals

          WOMEN AS ENDANGERED SPECIES: Unending tales of gruesome murder, rape scourge, kidnapping of ladies for rituals

          In a horrific tale of fear, tears and sorrow, Nigerians can no longer sleep with their two eyes closed. They are neither safe outside their homes nor inside. Sadly, many families have been left in pain and agony due to the sudden disappearance of their loved ones. The list of women and girls killed for rituals seems to be endless. ALAO ABIODUN examines the recurring killing of women and girls.

          When Christiana Idowu, a 300-level student of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, left home last month, August 2024, she had no inkling that she would not return home. Her gruesome murder added to the growing number of women who have been savagely sent to their early graves.

          The atmosphere at the home of Christiana has been engulfed in grief for the past days. Their home has received more sympathisers than imagined since the incident.

          Christiana, who was kidnapped along the Ikorodu-Yaba road, met untimely her death in the hands of her abductors. She left her home in the Ita-oluwo area of Ikorodu, heading to the University of Lagos in the Yaba area of Lagos, where she was observing her industrial training before, she was abducted by the kidnappers.

          Lately, there has been a spike in the kidnapping, resulting in renewed security shocks. Reports emerge daily around the country outlining how assailants keep attacking and kidnapping citizens either for ransom, or ritual purposes.

          It is noteworthy that as the killings have been on the increase, both male and females have been victims. However, women seem to have more on the receiving end, as ritual killers hunting for body parts and rapists seem to be on the prowl.

          The mindless attacks on women have taken unimaginable proportions and dimensions. There have been many tales of woes for women and girls caught up in the web of the pervasive violence in public and private spaces.

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          There exists an unaccountable number of other victims who are violated every day, every week, every month and every year. Is there still a safe space for women, with the incessant rape and murder? The audacity of rapists and paedophiles have taken dimensions, hitherto uncommon.

          The social media has indeed witnessed several hashtags for women who have been so gruesomely murdered. From #JusticeforUmuoren to #JusticeforOchanya, #JusticeforUwa, #JusticeforSofiat, #JusticeforBamise, #JusticeforBarakat, #JusticeforChristiana.

          According to a 2021 report by Amnesty International, efforts by the government to stop the prevalence of sexual and gender-based violence in Nigeria have yielded little or no results.

          Accurate statistics of sexual violence against women in Nigeria are difficult to come by, essentially because insensitivity, and the fear of stigma (or persecution) discourage targets of sexual violence from formalising the reports of incidents.

          This reluctance, however, has only contributed to the rise in a culture of impunity on the part of the perpetrators.

          Unending scourge of killings

          Recent data suggests that the problem is escalating. According to the National Human Rights Commission, over 200 reported cases of ritual killings occurred in Nigeria between 2018 and 2020. The victims are often vulnerable individuals, including children, women, and the elderly. The perpetrators, often fuelled by greed and misguided beliefs, prey on innocent lives, leaving families and communities shattered.

          It is important to note that ritual killings are a complex issue, and no single factor can fully explain their occurrence. Addressing the social state of the perpetrators requires a comprehensive approach that involves education, economic empowerment, cultural sensitisation, and governance reform.

          Poverty, unemployment, and a lack of education create an environment where desperate individuals are preyed upon by unscrupulous ritualists. The belief in the efficacy of human body parts for wealth and power is fuelled by ignorance, superstition, and false narratives. Some individuals believe that human organs and body parts possess spiritual powers that can bring wealth, success, and protection. This belief is perpetuated by false narratives and superstitions by dishonest individuals.

          The victims of ritual killings are often victims of abduction and murder. In very rare circumstances, people belonging to one cult or the other do offer themselves to be used for sacrifices that will bring short-lived wealth and, even worse, a short life span.

          Women are becoming increasingly endangered, targeted for ritual killing. Some gullible ones often do not know that they are being hunted as they get lured to be killed by their supposed boyfriends and men wooing them for paid intimacy.

          Christiana Idowu

          Ayomide Adeleye, a 200 Level Philosophy student of the Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ogun State, confessed on Monday to killing Christianah Idowu, a 300 Level student of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB).

          His confession, made to the 174 Battalion of the Nigerian Army, brought an end to the two-week-long search for the girl.

          Idowu and Adeleye knew each other as they both schooled in Ogun State, attended the same church and lived in the same Ita-Oluwo community.

          Combined security efforts unravelled the whole mystery. Troops tracked Idowu’s phone to Adeleye’s residence in the Ikorodu area of Lagos State. He confessed to security agencies that he killed the victim and buried her in his house.

          The hashtag – #JusticeForChristiana is one of the top trends on Nigeria’s X (formerly Twitter), with over 100,000 posts as of the time of filing this report.

          His gory action drew the ire of many Nigerians on social media. Outraged by the incident, many Nigerians on Twitter, demanded justice for the victim, asking relevant stakeholders to ensure justice is served.

          The Nation learnt that intelligence operatives were able to uncover the location of the abductor through the BVN and account details used in collecting ransom from the family.

          Upon his arrest, the military found seven phones in Adeleye’s possession. They also found an email address he created to receive a statement of account confirming ransom payment.

          To apprehend him, the military obtained a SportyBet account he provided to Idowu’s mother; 9336380839 (Wema Bank), and froze the account after she paid N350,000 into it on August 21.

          After experiencing issues accessing the account, Adeleye demanded that a statement of account be sent to him via the email address: musaahmed0288@gmail.com.

          The email address he created was a combination of two names; Musa and Ahmed, to match the persona he had donned to execute the con.

          On Sunday, September 1, the 174 Battalion tracked Idowu’s phone to Adeleye’s residence where they picked him up. He confessed to burying her in a shallow grave in his compound. During interrogation, Adeleye attempted to commit suicide but was restrained.

          Mojisola Awesu

          A graduate of the Kwara State College of Health Technology, Mojisola Awesu was invited to Ilorin, the state capital, by a dismissed student of Summit University, Offa, Adebayo Happiness, to act as his girlfriend at a party for a fee of N15,000.

          She was murdered in a hotel where she was lodged on Friday, August 9, 2024.

          The Police has since arrested about seven suspects involved in the alleged murder.

          Glory Adekolure

          The rape and gruesome murder of Glory Adekolure, a fresh graduate of the University of Benin (UNIBEN) is one that will not be forgotten in a hurry.

          The victim was reportedly raped and killed at Iyowa Community, Benin City, on 13 June 2024.

          Glory, 22, was on her way home after processing her clearance forms when she was abducted, tortured and raped to death by yet-to-be-identified persons.

          Her corpse was later dropped close to her mother’s house.

          Bamise Ayanwole

          Still fresh in our memory is the dreadful killing of Miss Oluwabamise Ayanwole on February 26, 2022.

          The 22-year-old fashion designer who boarded a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) in Ajah, Lagos State around 7 p.m. after work was heading to her older brother’s place at Ota, Ogun State South-west Nigeria for the weekend.

          She was last heard of a few minutes later via the live post she made on the internet, after sensing danger on the bus, when the driver did not stop to pick up other passengers along the route that fateful day.

          Eunice Chioma Igweike

          The deceased, a graduate of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, in Anambra State, was on her way to the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Sagamu, Ogun State, having been deployed to the Southwest state under the 2022 Batch B Service Year.

          She was abducted and allegedly taken to a ‘slaughter slab’, where she was butchered like an animal and her parts taken as articles of trade by human parts dealers.

          Her lacerated body was eventually discovered on July 29, almost nine days after she was abducted. All efforts to trace her abductors did not yield any positive result until the worst had happened.

          Vera Uwaila Omozuwa

          Vera Uwaila Omozuwa, a 100 level Microbiology student of University of Benin, was brutally raped and murdered in a church at Ikpoba Hill area of Benin-City.

          Uwaila, who went to read in the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Miracle Sanctuary Mega Parish, Edo Province 10, Ikpoba Hill area of Benin City on May 27, 2020, was allegedly raped and assaulted by assailants.

          It was gathered that the men forced their way into the church, where they raped and struck Uwaila in the head with a fire extinguisher.

          Collins Ujegbulem, one of the six suspects paraded by the Edo State Police Command over the murder, claimed that a lady, Mary Adeh,  paid them the sum of N1 million to kill the student for rituals.

          Iniobong Umoren

          On April 29, Iniobong Umoren, 26, a fresh graduate of the University of Uyo, left her home for a job interview at a location in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital.

          Umoren had graduated from the University of Uyo’s Department of Philosophy. She was waiting for her deployment for the mandatory National Youth Service Corp (NYSC) programme. Umoren was an orphan and was trying to earn a living before her NYSC year when Akpan killed her.

          The interview later turned out to be a hoax, as Umoren would become a rape and murder victim in the hands of Uduak Akpan, the supposed interviewer, at his residence.

          While confessing to the crime in July, Akpan claimed he had struck Umoren on the head with a stabilizer during a physical struggle, and this resulted in her death.

          After a nationwide outcry over the whereabouts of Umoren, her remains were found in a shallow grave in Akpan’s father’s compound.

          Barakat Bello

          For the family of Barakat Bello, June 2020 would be remembered as a year when rapists cut short the life of their daughter, a student of Department of Science Laboratory Technology (SLT), Federal College of Animal Health and Production in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

          The 18-year-old was attacked by some hoodlums who raped, then stabbed her to death at Akinyele Kara Market along Old Oyo Road, Ibadan.

          The attackers arrived at the home of the deceased possibly to rob them of their possessions. Upon seeing her in the bathroom, they decided to rape the young lady and subsequently macheted her till she gave up the ghost.

          According to her father, Kasimu Bello, the incident occurred when all other members of the family were not around. The only person at home at the time of the attack was her younger sister.

          Following the incident, many Nigerians stormed the social media to demand justice for the late Barakat with the #JusticeForBarakat.

          Favour Okechukwu

          It sounds bizarre but true. An 11-year-old girl, Favour Okechukwu, was gang-raped in Lagos.  The bloodcurdling incident happened at Olanrewaju street in Ejigbo area of the state.

          According to reports, the victim, on returning from school was sent to buy a carton of gala, a popular snack from a nearby shop when four men lured her to a room and raped her to death.

          The  suspects, realising  that the girl was dead, abandoned her and fled. The victim’s father, Dickson Okechukwu on returning from work discovered her naked body in the room after a frantic search for her.

          Justina Otuene Nkang

          Okoligwe Damian Chinemere, a 400-level Engineering student at the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), killed Justina Otuene Nkang, his girlfriend, who is a 300-level student of Biological Chemistry in the same university.

          Justina’s dead body was found mutilated in her boyfriend’s house a few days after she was declared missing.

          Reports say that the killer was trying to dispose of the corpse wrapped in a polythene bag when he was caught.

          Precious Okeke

          In April 2022, Ifeanyi Njoku, a 28-year-old Lagos State resident, was arrested for killing Precious Okeke, his 24-year-old girlfriend, in the Ajah area of Lagos State.

          Njoku admitted to killing his girlfriend for money rituals. The police revealed that a native doctor, who was assisting Njoku in the money ritual project, had instructed him to have sex with Okeke’s corpse.

          The killer had engaged in the illicit act with his girlfriend’s corpse for six days before the stench emanating from his apartment made his neighbours alert the police.

          Outrage has continued to grow over these heinous crimes, but beyond public rage, the worrying question is: who will be the next victim? Every girl or woman now lives in fear, as nobody knows who the next casualty would be. This is because the government has failed to check the rising cases of violence against women. As the society tries to deal with one incident, another seems to pop up somewhere else, but the epidemic did not just start with the recent cases.

        2. WOWICAN calls for repositioning of women for growth, development

          WOWICAN calls for repositioning of women for growth, development

          The Women Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (WOWICAN), Southwest Zone, has called on women to arise and be repositioned for growth and development amidst the challenges facing the nation.

          The call was made at the WOWICAN Southwest 10th annual zonal convention, investiture, award presentation, and women’s empowerment held in Lagos at the Apostolic Church of Nigeria, LAWNA Territory, Ketu.

          In her welcome address at the four-day event with the theme,’Repositioning Women For Growth and Development’, Chairperson, WOWICAN Southwest Zone, Most Senior Mother-in-Israel, Prophetess Odunola Raji-Adebesin, noted that Christian women were greatly endowed with intellect and godly ambition, hence the need to maximise their talents in impacting the church and society positively.

          She called for more prayers and watchfulness regarding the state of security in the nation while urging women to care for their homes, ensure godly parenting, and guide their children and wards against pornography, indecent dressing, and other social vices.

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          Speaking with journalists, National Chairperson of WOWICAN, General Lady Superintendent, Dr. Ayobami Akinadewo, called on women to be more prayerful, diligent, and have unwavering faith. Also, she called on President Bola Tinubu and other national leaders to show more concern in tackling the problems of the citizens.

          “My message to Nigerian Christian women is to be more prayerful and have faith in God as things are still going to be fine. We should not be agitated. We should not think it’s the end of the road because at the end of the tunnel, there’s going to be light and we will rejoice. We will be the ones who eat the good of the land by His grace.

          Founder of Love of Christ Generation Church, Rev. Mother Abimbola Esther Ajayi was part of the dignitaries at the event. Meanwhile, the awardees/honourees appreciated the body for recognising their efforts, while pledging support to the good of humanity and advancement of the gospel”.

        3. Cleric urges parents to prioritise prayer, Godly parenting

          Cleric urges parents to prioritise prayer, Godly parenting

          The convener of ‘When Mama Prays,’  Rev Carol Ighele has called on parents to be intentional in their prayers and teaching of their children the ways of God so that they can grow up to become responsible citizens.

          Ighele said this at the When Mama Prays international women’s conference 2024 held at the headquarters of Holy Spirit Mission Church (The Happy Family Chapter), Akonwonjo, Lagos.

          Tagged: ‘Battles For the Destiny of Your Children,’ brought together thousands of women from across the country.

          Ighele, who is the wife of the General Superintendent of Holy Spirit Mission (Aka The Happy Family), said that in today’s world, parents face unprecedented challenges in raising their children. The influence of the internet, social media, and rapidly evolving societal norms are presenting new threats to the spiritual well-being of young people.

          “The urgent message for parents across the globe, not just in Nigeria, is clear: Now, more than ever, it is essential to pray for your children and guide them in the ways of God,” she said.

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          She noted that there is growing concern that as the Kingdom of Satan churns out new sins and deceptive ways to lead people astray, children and youth are especially vulnerable.

          “With temptations starting at an increasingly younger age, the devil tries to reach children as early as their teenage years or even earlier. If they fall prey to these temptations, they may grow into adults who, in turn, perpetuate the cycle of sin,” she said.

          She opined that mothers, in particular, are urged to embrace their God-given roles as nurturers and carriers of life.

          “They must train their children in the “admonition of the Lord,” ensuring they understand both the spiritual dangers around them and the tools to overcome them. This goes beyond providing for their children physically or teaching life skills; it requires spiritual mentorship.

          “Mothers must enter the battle for the destiny of their children. They need to tell them about the dangers the Goliaths will face – whether it’s exam malpractice, sin, or pornography – and equip them with the spiritual armor to overcome.