The planter, CAC Grace of Mercy Prayer Mountain Worldwide, Prophet Sam Olu-Alo, has fecilitated with Muslims across the world on the occasion of this year’s Eid Kabir festivity.
A statement by the Personal Assistant to the cleric, Deji Ogunbusuyi, urged Muslims to always live by the ethos of sacrifice, faithfulness, diligence and love exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim.
He said these are good characteristic required to build a peaceful, united and prosperous nation.
He commended President Bola Tinubu for promoting religious harmony through equitable appointments across ethnic lines, which according to him, Governor Oyebanji is also promoting in Ekiti State.
The statement reads: “It is my great honour and privilege to salute the Muslim faithful on the occasion of Eid-El-Kabir. Your sacrifices at all levels of government has helped to stabilise this nation. I commend you.”
Olu-Alo, who is the founder of Adamimogo FM Nigeria, called for moderation in the celebrations, urging Muslims to be mindful of the current economic realities facing many families across the country.
“Let us balance our festivities with empathy and kindness towards those less fortunate. While we celebrate, let us do so with consciousness of the challenges many of our compatriots are facing.
“We cannot deny that our country faces significant challenges today, especially with the rising cost of living, unemployment, and insecurity.
“However, what inspires me is the unwavering spirit of our people. In the face of adversity, Nigerians have consistently demonstrated remarkable resilience, creativity, and an unshakeable belief in our collective destiny.”
He pointed to the country’s youthful population, rich cultural diversity, abundant natural resources, and growing technological innovation as foundations upon which, a stronger Nigeria can be built.
He called on all Nigerians, regardless of religious affiliation, to use the Sallah period for introspection and renewed commitment to national unity.
According to the cleric: “This is a time for us to look beyond our differences and focus on what unites us as Nigerians our shared aspirations for security, prosperity, and good governance.
“As we celebrate, let us renew our faith not just in our religious beliefs, but in our capacity as Nigerians to overcome present challenges and build a more prosperous, secure, and united nation for current and future generations.”
The Mountain Top Theological Seminary (MTTS), a premier institution for ministerial training under the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM), has launched its first-ever Student Council Week with a series of impactful events aimed at spiritual enrichment, community service, and theological discourse.
The event, which began on June 6, runs through June 10, at the seminary’s campus and culminates at the MFM International Headquarters.
With the theme “Upholding the sanctity of the scripture in a changing world,” the week featured a diverse range of activities designed to foster spiritual growth and social responsibility among students.
According to the chairman of the Student Planning Committee, Rev’d M.A Akintola, the highlight of the week will be a grand finale symposium on May 10. The event will feature notable Christian leaders and theological scholars as discussants.
Among the distinguished speakers scheduled to dissect the theme are Pastor Samuel Sanusi, CEO of the Bible Society of Nigeria; Dr. Olorunfemi Emmanuel; Dr. Jeremiah Ajibola; Pastor Anu Ojo; and several others renowned for their doctrinal depth and ministerial impact.
In addition to the symposium, the Student Council Week includes a series of community outreach programs.
These include visits to orphanages where students donated essential items and foodstuffs, and a health outreach that provided free medical services and drugs to local residents.
The week will also be rounded off with a dinner and awards night celebrating excellence and dedication among students and staff.
Rev’d Akintola described MTTS, which was founded in 2007, as a beacon of excellence in theological education. “This institution continues to be a formidable breeding ground for God’s ministers, and a shining light among theological seminaries in Nigeria and beyond,” he stated.
He also highlighted MTTS’s collaborative approach to academic programs that address the evolving needs of the church and society.
According to him, the school’s influence has extended across Africa, shaping theological thought and contributing meaningfully to community development.
Looking to the future, Rev’d Akintola reaffirmed MTTS’s commitment to continuously improving its curriculum, strengthening its impact, and maintaining its position as a leader in theological education.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Provost of the Seminary, Pastor Tunde Oyewole, described the event as a significant milestone in the history of the institution. He expressed gratitude for God’s guidance since the founding of the seminary by the General Overseer of MFM, Dr. Daniel Kolawole Olukoya.
“As we commemorate this milestone, we reflect on the transformative journey that God has taken us through. MTTS has remained committed to its mission of providing sound theological education and ministerial training,” Pastor Oyewole said.
He noted that graduates of MTTS are already making significant impacts in various ministries, serving as pillars of faith and community development. He also praised Dr. Olukoya as a “theological icon of repute,” whose vision and dedication to Christian education have shaped the direction and growth of the institution.
President of the MTTS Student Council, Adebare O.A., remarked that the Student Council Week was conceived not just as a celebration but also as an avenue for community service and spiritual reflection.
“Today, we gather to reflect on peace, gratitude, and our mission as followers of Christ,” he said. “Our task is to build a strong foundation for future generations—just as the apostles and prophets passed the faith to us, we must ensure it thrives in the face of modern challenges.”
With its successful launch, the MTTS Student Council Week sets a new tradition of engagement, learning, and service, reinforcing the seminary’s role in shaping spiritually grounded and socially responsible Christian leaders for the future.
Nigerian gospel artiste Tomi Kehinde Folayan, popularly known as Tomi Folayan, continues his remarkable ascent in the music industry as his single “Saluting Twale” receives a prominent feature from TurnTable Charts, Nigeria’s leading music chart and editorial platform.
The publication lauded the track’s spirit-filled message and impactful delivery, calling it one of the best gospel songs of 2025 so far.
Praises have also poured in from various quarters, with TurnTable’s recognition and the buzz on social media platforms further cementing the song’s success.
Since its release, “Saluting Twale” has struck a powerful chord with audiences across Nigeria and beyond, thanks to its rich instrumentation, sincere worship energy, and Tomi’s grounded, heartfelt vocal delivery.
The song’s organic rise; driven by playlist features, repeat listens, and viral sharing demonstrates how gospel music is increasingly gaining mainstream traction without relying solely on traditional promotional channels.
The online community, especially on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, has erupted with praise, with believers and secular listeners alike celebrating its cultural depth and spiritual authenticity.
This recent wave of acclaim follows the success of other gospel artistes like Gaise Baba and Lawrence Oyor, whose recent hits such as “No Turning Back” have been instrumental in shifting the narrative around gospel music in Nigeria.
The artistes are breaking down barriers by blending traditional praise and worship with contemporary sounds, making gospel music more accessible and appealing to a broader audience. Gaise Baba’s fusion and Lawrence Oyor’s heartfelt chant have helped elevate gospel’s status in Nigeria’s mainstream music scene, a trend that “Saluting Twale” continues to exemplify.
Tomi Folayan’s “Saluting Twale” is a testament to this new era; an organic hit that combines cultural authenticity with modern gospel rhythms. Its success is also amplified by praise from TurnTable Chart’s editorial team, who recognize its potential to inspire and uplift.
The song’s viral momentum speaks to a broader shift within Nigerian gospel music: artists are now more than ever redefining what gospel can sound like, making it a vital part of Nigeria’s contemporary cultural identity.
Tomi Folayan’s achievement, along with the accomplishments of Baba, Lawrence Oyor, and other gospel pioneers, signals a bold and exciting future for gospel music in Nigeria; one where spiritual messages resonate widely through innovative sounds and digital buzz.
Nigeria’s religious landscape is deeply rooted in centuries of Christian missionary activity with some of its churches dating back to the early 19th century.
From the cobbled streets of Badagry to the riverine towns of the Niger Delta, these churches not only mark the arrival of Christianity but also tell stories of resilience, faith, and cultural transformation.
Here are the top 10 oldest churches in Nigeria:
1. Methodist Church Nigeria
The Methodist Church Nigeria holds the title of being the first Christian denomination to establish a mission in Nigeria. Founded in 1842 by Rev. Thomas Birch Freeman and Rev. William de Graft of the Wesleyan Methodist Missionary Society, the church began its work in Badagry, Lagos, and has remained influential in Nigeria’s Christian and educational landscape.
2. Anglican Church
The Anglican Church, (Anglican Communion), also began missionary activities in Nigeria in 1842 through the Church Missionary Society (CMS). With historical figures such as Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther, the church played a critical role in spreading Christianity and Western education across the country.
3. Baptist Church
American Baptist missionary Rev. Thomas Jefferson Bowen established the first Baptist mission in Nigeria in 1850. The Nigerian Baptist Convention was later formally organised in 1914. The denomination’s strong emphasis on education and local leadership helped it thrive and grow into one of the country’s most prominent church bodies.
Founded in 1846 by Scottish missionaries of the United Presbyterian Church of Scotland, the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria began its work in Calabar. It quickly gained ground in southeastern Nigeria, contributing significantly to the religious and educational development of the region.
5. Roman Catholic Church
The Roman Catholic Church established a permanent presence in Nigeria in 1862, with the arrival of the Society of African Missions in Lagos. The Church’s growth, especially in Eastern Nigeria, was bolstered by its commitment to education, healthcare, and missionary outreach.
6. The Apostolic Church Nigeria
Emerging from the Faith Tabernacle Revival, The Apostolic Church Nigeria was officially established in 1918 in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State. It is one of Nigeria’s earliest Pentecostal churches and a pioneer of the Pentecostal movement in the country.
7. Cherubim and Seraphim Church
Founded by Prophet Moses Orimolade Tunolase, this church is the first major African Initiated Church (AIC) in Nigeria, known for its spiritual emphasis on prophecy and healing.
8. Church of the Lord (Aladura)
Founded in Ogere-Remo by Josiah Olunowo Ositelu, the Church of the Lord (Aladura) was one of the earliest prayer-focused indigenous churches, emphasizing prophecy and spiritual deliverance.
9. Lutheran Church of Nigeria (1936)
Established by the Sudan United Mission in Numan, Adamawa State, the Lutheran Church has played a significant role in evangelism and theological training in northeastern Nigeria.
10. Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) (1904/1954)
Originating from the Sudan Interior Mission in 1904 and adopting its current name in 1954, ECWA has grown into a large evangelical denomination with a strong focus on missions and church planting.
A rare fusion of royal honour, spiritual devotion, and philanthropic excellence unfolded in Obinze, Imo State, as Dr. (Mrs.) Seinye O.B. Lulu-Briggs, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Moni Pulo Limited was conferred with the chieftaincy title of Ezi Enyi 1 of Umuanunu meaning “A True Friend of Umuanunu.”
The conferment, bestowed by His Royal Highness Eze Geoffrey Ejimogu, JP, Anunu I of Umuanunu Autonomous Community, was in recognition of her exceptional contributions to nation-building, faith-based service, and her monumental donation of a 5,000-seater ultra-modern auditorium to the Baptist College of Theology, Obinze.
The royal rites commenced at the palace with traditional blessings, including the symbolic presentation of kola nuts. In a solemn moment, the monarch extolled Dr. Lulu-Briggs as “a woman of immense substance whose works speak volumes across Nigeria,” describing her philanthropy as “transformative and deeply rooted in spiritual obedience.”
Dr. Lulu-Briggs, who is also the Founder and Chairman, Board of Trustees of the O. B. Lulu-Briggs Foundation, expressed profound gratitude, calling the title “a gift of friendship forged in faith.” She noted that her donation to the college was an act of obedience to divine instruction and an affirmation of her family’s generational commitment to Christian service.
“This honour humbles me,” she said. “It reminds me that true friendship is not declared, it is lived in service, in sacrifice, and in shared values.”
The event was attended by dignitaries from across Nigeria’s faith, political, and traditional institutions, including the former Secretary to the Government of Imo State and federal lawmaker, Hon. Uche Onyeagucha, who described the auditorium project as a bridge of brotherhood between Imo and Rivers States.
Following the palace ceremony, the focus shifted to the Baptist College of Theology, Obinze, where the state-of-the-art auditorium, now named the Dr. Seinye O.B. Lulu-Briggs Auditorium, was commissioned. The ceremony coincided with the College’s 55th Convocation Ceremony and Fellowship Awards, where Dr. Lulu-Briggs also served as Guest Speaker
Received at the lush campus grounds with a guard of honour by the Royal Ambassadors and greeted by jubilant students and faculty, Dr. Lulu-Briggs was praised by the college’s Chairman, Board of Governors, Dr. Dawari George, as “a woman who sees a need and meets it with speed, clarity, and grace.”
The new facility includes lecture halls, conference rooms, media suites, administrative offices, and inclusive amenities, positioning it as one of the largest privately donated theological education centres in Nigeria. Commissioning the auditorium, Rev. Dr. Israel Akanji, President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, while commending Dr. Seinye Lulu-Briggs, said in the Baptist Church’s 175-year history nobody has made a contribution like hers. He prayed that the space would serve “not just as a building, but as an altar of revival, scholarship, and missionary preparation.”
In her keynote lecture titled “Faith, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation: The Role of Theological Education for Enterprise Development in an Emerging Economy,” Dr. Lulu-Briggs offered a stirring challenge to the graduating class and church leaders. She emphasized that theological education must extend beyond the pulpit to the marketplace, boardroom, and innovation hubs.
“Faith must fuel enterprise, and enterprise must reflect the Kingdom,” she declared. “The shoemaker who honours God is the one who makes good shoes not the one who stamps crosses on them.”
Drawing inspiration from biblical leaders like Joseph, Nehemiah, and Daniel, she underscored the power of purpose-led business, citing her founding of La Sien Bottling Company as a response to God’s call to serve through enterprise. “Business is ministry,” she affirmed, “when done in obedience to God and service to humanity.”
Among notable attendees were Dr. Elijah Brown, General Secretary of the Baptist World Alliance; Rev. Elias Apetogbo of the All-Africa Baptist Fellowship; and senior Baptist Convention leaders including Prof. John Eyinnaya and Deacon Biodun Oloyede.
The highpoint of the event was the handing over of the keys to the auditorium to Rev. Dr. Akanji by Dr. Lulu-Briggs, who described the gesture as “a gift to God and a seed for the future of faith-based leadership in Africa.”
The General Overseer of Ambassadors of Christ Teaching and Evangelical Ministries (ACTEM), Evangelist Paul Olusegun Oyeniran, has urged Nigerians to continually praise God for His countless blessings, especially amidst the nation’s current challenges.
Speaking during a recent sermon in Odeomu, Osun State, Evangelist Oyeniran emphasized the importance of gratitude to God, stating that despite the hardships facing the country, God’s protection and mercy remain evident. When asked by journalists to clarify an earlier message he had shared with his congregation, the cleric pointed to ongoing security issues in Nigeria as a call for deeper spiritual reflection.
He acknowledged the gallant efforts of Nigerian soldiers in combating banditry and terrorism in different regions of the country, noting that their sacrifices deserve commendation. However, he lamented the persistent threat posed by criminal elements, warning that the country’s worsening security situation predates the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
“Before President Buhari assumed office, he promised to tackle insecurity head-on,” Evangelist Oyeniran said. “Unfortunately, despite his efforts, the situation remained unresolved before he handed over to the current government. We must ask ourselves where we went wrong because this is not the Nigeria we desire.”
Citing scriptures from Amos 3:6 and Jeremiah 4:14-22, Evangelist Oyeniran called for national repentance and a return to godly values. He warned that without God’s intervention, no effort would yield lasting solutions.
“According to the Bible, unless the Lord blesses our work, all efforts will be in vain. We must seek God’s face, repent of our sins, and ask for His mercy,” he said.
He further referenced Joel 2:15-16, 18-20, urging Nigerians to engage in sincere prayer and fasting, and to turn from wickedness so that divine intervention may come upon the land.
The cleric further reiterated that only through genuine repentance, prayer, and thanksgiving to God can Nigeria overcome its present challenges and experience true peace and unity
Centre For Righteous Living, a faith based Non-Governmental Organisation with headquarters in Lagos has congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his mid-term records, as it has also called on governments at all levels in Nigeria to make life better for all categories of people living in Nigeria.
This was part of the resolutions at one of their recent meetings in a release made available by the chairman of its caretaker committee, Dr. Christopher Abolade, as they reviewed the state of the nation vis a vis the performance of the present government in its first two years.
President Tinubu was inaugurated on May 29, 2023 and it would be two full years in the saddle come May 29, 2025.
The group which noted some of the giant strides made by President Tinubu to put Nigerian economy on a very stable path expressed the belief that the government still needs to do some things more to put smile on the lips of Nigerians.
The president’s performance was assessed in key areas such as Social Welfare, Works and Infrastructure, Finance and Economy as well as Internal Security across various parts of the country.
The group noted the painful removal of fuel subsidy and naira floating, which has triggered inflation in different spheres of the lives of Nigerians, and advised the government to look into different areas which it can improve the lots of Nigerians in the next two years before the end of its first term.
“We want to appreciate the federal government for courageously pursuing the vision of a better Nigeria. We note with satisfaction the government’s visionary efforts in the area of infrastructure and education, as well as its moves to maintain a balance in the Nigeria’s foreign exchange platform and to stabilise the prices of petroleum products.”
CRIL also noted that the reforms were tough but necessary decisions which have been having positive impacts on the economy. It appreciated the government’s move to pay part of its commitments to the International Monetary Fund, as well as the steady reduction in the prices of commodities especially food in the market.
The Centre which noted the sterling performance of the government in its first two years, advised President Tinubu not to rest on his oars but to move swiftly to meet the needs and expectations of Nigerians in other areas and set objectives of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“We want to call on President Tinubu to intensify its efforts in minimising security threats and attacks in various parts of the country. The importance of security cannot be over emphasised. When there is security Nigerians will be able to go into their farmlands with no fear of security threats and they will be able to produce enough food to feed Nigerians and even export to earn foreign exchange which will further help to stabilise Nigeria’s Naira. Farming through this would be able to provide employment for various strata of the Nigerian society,” CRIL explained.
CRIL which also praised President Tinubu on his purposeful and inspiring leadership called on the government to ensure that it gives Nigerians stable electricity supplies at moderate and affordable rates, noting that such would help Nigerians in their various production capacities and enhance provision of gainful employment for Nigerians.
CRIL also called on governments at state and local government levels to complement the efforts of the federal government to make life better for Nigerians by ensuring that the government’s policy on Local Government reforms works to the satisfaction and benefits of Nigerians. “We believe if the state and local governments can invest in agriculture within a secured environment, Nigeria will not only be able to feed itself but feed its neighbours and earn income from exports.
“It is our belief that if the government can build on these its achievements of the first two years, the third year would be a celebration of these achievements and we are convinced that 2027 would be an easy ride for the president and members of his party to retain their hold on the power across the land.
Lagos, Nigeria – In an era marked by declining spiritual values, West Africa Theological Seminary (WATS) has announced a renewed vision aimed at catalyzing spiritual awakening in Nigeria and across Africa.
The initiative, called the “Renewed WATS,” is designed to refocus the institution on its founding mission of raising leaders committed to holy living and taking the Gospel to the unreached.
Dr. Oluwafemi Emmanuel, Provost of WATS, revealed this in a statement issued by the Seminary’s Acting Head of Media, Israel Ade’Dunia, said the renewed focus would emphasize the original mandate of the Seminary: training spiritually grounded leaders who will, in turn, impact their communities and sectors.
“Our core objective,” Dr. Emmanuel stated, “is to train men and women who live holy lives and carry that transformative power into every area of society, whether they are in the military, politics, academia, legal profession, or religious ministry. Until Christianity begins to truly impact society, it hasn’t really started.”
Emmanuel emphasized that WATS aims to enroll at least 4,000 students under this revitalized plan. The recruitment focus will be on born-again believers with a calling to ministry and those in active church leadership roles. According to him, the Seminary’s theological foundation is rooted in the Wesleyan and Pietist traditions of John Wesley and August Hermann Francke, with holiness at the center.
“It’s a misconception to relegate holiness only to church activities. Holiness is life, it’s a culture, a daily practice that should define our personal and public lives,” he noted.
Part of the “Renewed WATS” strategy also includes a third pillar: evangelizing the unreached. Dr. Emmanuel clarified that the term “unreached” in theological terms refers to people who have heard the Gospel but are yet to accept it. “The day they respond and embrace the Gospel, they become reached,” he said.
Founded over 40 years ago by naturalized American missionary Rev. Professor Gary Maxey, WATS has grown into a multi-denominational, cross-cultural institution dedicated to spiritual leadership development across West Africa.
With this renewed commitment, the Seminary hopes to not only train leaders but ignite a broader national and continental revival grounded in personal holiness and public transformation.
In the heart of Lagos, far from pulpits and polished platforms, a movement is rising—one rooted in raw faith, street grit, and tireless devotion. Evangelists like Akinmurewa Jesus, Edu Richard Etowa, and Mike Oghenekaro have traded church stages for motor parks and pedestrian bridges, boldly preaching the gospel to commuters, traders, and street dwellers. Armed with nothing but microphones, megaphones, and their Bibles, they are reshaping the face of evangelism in Nigeria’s commercial capital—one soul at a time. Report by ADEOLA OGUNLADE
“How We Drove Yeye Osun from Agege-Iyana Ipaja with the Gospel”
For 13 years, Evangelist Akinmurewa Jesus has made the streets of Alimosho and Agege his pulpit, preaching the gospel from the back of a pickup truck. Day after day, except Sundays when he attends church, he brings the message of salvation to Lagos’ busiest corners—marketplaces, motor parks, street junctions—undaunted by the noise, the heat, or the indifferent stares.
“I have no regrets,” he said in a sit-down with The Nation. “This is what I was born to do.”
From Driver to Street Preacher
Akinmurewa’s journey into full-time evangelism began in an unlikely place—behind the wheel. He worked for 17 years as a driver, employed by legendary gospel musician Chief Ebenezer Obey, specifically driving his son, Pastor Folarin Obey. It was during this time that he received a vision that would alter the course of his life.
“I saw myself doing something in front of a large church, but I didn’t know what it was at the time,” he recalled. “Later, I understood it was the call to evangelize.”
After resigning from his job, he turned to taxi driving and eventually acquired a pickup truck. But instead of merely transporting goods and passengers, Akinmurewa converted his vehicle into a mobile pulpit, taking the gospel to the streets.
Ministry at Dawn
His day begins at 3 a.m. with prayers. By 5 a.m., he’s out on the streets preaching. From his home, he walks through neighborhoods declaring the message of Christ before heading to his usual preaching spot near Agege-Iyana Ipaja Park.
“Many people tell me I’m the reason they wake up for morning devotion. That’s one of the greatest joys of this work,” he said.
Despite having no other steady occupation, Akinmurewa remains unshaken in his commitment to his calling. “If God brings me a job, I’ll take it. But for now, my job is to preach the gospel,” he said.
Persecution and Provision
Street preaching in Lagos comes with its share of resistance. Government officials have tried to evict him from public spaces, and some religious individuals have challenged his boldness. But every time, Akinmurewa said, “God shows up.”
“People think we’re selling drugs or running a business. But once they realize we’re preaching, they leave us alone,” he said.
Sustaining himself and his family hasn’t been easy, but Akinmurewa insists that divine provision has never failed him. “The Bible says those who preach the gospel will live by the gospel. God has been our sustainer,” he declared. “The just shall live by faith.”
Despite the economic hardship, he and his family—now with grown-up children—live modestly, relying on goodwill and divine provision. Passersby often drop offerings or money for fuel, and fellow believers occasionally lend support.
A Clear Calling
Asked if he ever felt like returning to secular work, Akinmurewa smiled. “Never. The Bible says no man who puts his hand on the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom. I’ve never had a better yesterday than today.”
His passion for evangelism is reinforced by a personal testimony: he used to suffer from a chronic cough and eye problem, but he says his health has significantly improved since he answered the call to ministry.
His preaching—bold, scripturally grounded, and unapologetic—has driven away spiritual opposition, including local idol worshippers. “When I preach here, even the Yeye Osun (a traditional devotee) had to leave. The power of God is real.”
Though he doesn’t operate a church, Akinmurewa has raised disciples. One of them, visibly present during the interview, assists in the daily outreach. He emphasizes that his followers must be “heavenly conscious people.”
“I don’t work with just anyone. We preach what Jesus began to preach and to do,” he said.
Akinmurewa doesn’t see the gospel as a business. “If you’re chasing fame, money, or power in ministry, you haven’t started,” he warned. “Ministry is about making it to heaven and taking others with you.”
His message is consistent and clear: humanity is lost without Christ. “We are all born in sin. Only Jesus was born of the Holy Spirit. Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. No Jesus, no heaven.”
On Support from Churches
He believes that churches should support street outreaches like his but insists that he is not dependent on any institution. “If God sends someone to help, so be it. But I’ve learned to be content. God rewards us in His time,” he said.
Ready for Heaven
Despite the difficult terrain of street ministry in Lagos, Akinmurewa remains unwavering. “If Jesus calls me today, I am ready. I’ve lived for this. My children are grown. He has sustained us.”
And while offers have come—even from abroad—he remains committed to his post. “If someone from the U.S. says I should come, that’s good. But I want to make heaven. That’s the goal.”
With his pickup truck parked in front of a bustling Lagos motor park, megaphone in hand and Bible at his side, Evangelist Akinmurewa Jesus continues to proclaim the message of salvation, undeterred, unwavering, and undeniably devoted.
“I have chosen my path,” he said. “And I’ll keep preaching until Jesus comes.”
Street Evangelist Stays the Course, Bringing Light to Iyana-Ipaja-Etowa
For nearly seven years, Evangelist Edu Richard Etowa has stood faithfully under the Iyana-Ipaja Bridge in Lagos, Nigeria, armed only with his Bible, a microphone, and a pocket full of tracts. As the founder of the Kingdom Recrue Network, his calling is simple yet profound: to preach Christ, restore souls, and live out the Great Commission where many fear to tread.
“Our mission is not just to preach,” Etowa told The Nation. “It’s to touch lives and bring people back to God, not just to church.”
His journey began on December 6, 2020, when he received a call from the Holy Spirit during a service at Christian Pentecostal Mission (CPM), Iyana-Ipaja branch. A former technical worker in the church, Etowa was skeptical at first, unsure of what to say or where to begin. But obedience led him under the bridge, where he has remained a fixture every morning since.
“At first, I argued with God. But eventually, I said, ‘If I fail, I fail. If I win, I win.’ And here I am. No one has ever chased me away. In fact, I now share the space with other preachers. We work together as a team.”
A Routine Built on Faith
Etowa’s daily routine is a spiritual discipline. He wakes by 5:00 a.m., prays, and begins preaching by 7:00 a.m. Using tracts obtained freely from mission centers, he distributes between 100 and 200 daily. When his speaker is out of batteries, he focuses solely on tract distribution, never allowing a lack of resources to stop him.
Despite operating in a volatile environment, Etowa says he’s never faced violence. Instead, his consistency and love have won over even the skeptics. One such man, Charles, who once mocked his preaching, now attends church regularly and is undergoing discipleship.
“Charles used to tell me to sing worldly songs. Today, he’s a changed man. We’re working to help him get off the streets and find a stable life,” Etowa shared.
The Challenge of Street Ministry
For many street dwellers like Charles, poverty, homelessness, and addiction create barriers to transformation. Etowa dreams of securing a safe home where new converts can find shelter, healing, and discipleship.
“Many people we reach are still exposed to drugs and street life. A place to stay can be the turning point. We’ve bought Charles some clothes, and he’s now in Bible study and church. There’s hope.”
Etowa’s commitment comes at a personal cost. He juggles part-time electrical work to support his family. His eldest daughter is at the University of Calabar, while two younger children attend junior secondary school. Finances are often tight, and his wife bears the weight of running the home.
“Sometimes, my kids miss school because there’s no money. But we never think of giving up. I know who I’m working for. God has not failed me yet. I will rather die on the street preaching Christ to the world laden in sin and ungodliness” he said.
He lost his first wife in 2019 and before he remarried in December 2023, the speakers that he uses every morning under Iyana-Ipaja bridge according to him was his wife. “Through it all my speaker—my faithful “companion”—remains my primary ministry tool. Even when hungry or broke, he shows up.
“I know what I have been saved from. I have been through hardship and accidents. I gave my life to Christ in 1990, and since then, I have never looked back.”
A Call to the Church
Etowa believes churches can do more to support independent evangelists like him.
“Yes, churches should support us. But I trust God. Sometimes, passersby give me money to buy batteries or fuel. The Bible says those who preach should live by the gospel. We are not chasing riches; we’re chasing souls.”
He runs his personal ministry under the Kingdom Recue Network but currently worships with another platform church (Church of God Ministry) where he also ministers too. He has no permanent place of worship, but his pulpit remains the streets.
“People tell me they miss me when I’m not preaching or when am not at my duty post. Some walk up just to say thank you. That’s my reward. My message is simple: No Jesus, no heaven. Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life.”
Despite the hardship, Evangelist Etowa is undeterred.
“I may be in a dark corner, but Jesus is my light. My condition cannot change God. He remains a miracle-working God. My only focus is heaven. If He calls me today, I’m ready.”
Winning Souls on the Streets: Evangelist Mike Oghenekaro’s Tireless Mission
Every morning at Kosoko Junction in Ojodu-Berger, Lagos, the sound of a microphone breaks through the rush of traffic and the chatter of pedestrians. It is the voice of Evangelist Mike Oghenekaro, the team lead of Christ Soul Rescue Mission, calling on passersby to turn their hearts to Christ.
With a passion that has spanned over two decades, Oghenekaro, once set on becoming a marine engineer, now leads a team of street preachers across Lagos, Ogun, and beyond. His journey into street evangelism began in 2005 after a powerful spiritual encounter redirected his ambitions from the sea to the streets.
“I was born in Delta State and came to Lagos permanently on February 27, 1997,” Oghenekaro recalled. “I became born again in 1999 at Elim Evangelical Church, Epe, under the late Pastor Solomon Adesola who also baptized me.”
Before his full-time ministry, he juggled various trades including plumbing, electrical work, charcoal, and timber business. Though he once dreamed of studying marine engineering, his life took a divine turn in 2005 when he received a vision of himself preaching in different countries.
“That same year, I started preaching on the streets,” he said. “I joined the Deeper Life Bible Church, where my fire for evangelism grew. From 2005 to 2009, I preached across all corners of Ojodu.”
In 2009, he joined the Mobile Evangelist group under Evangelist John Anifowose, which expanded his reach. However, in 2018, he was led to establish his own ministry—Christ Soul Rescue Mission.
“The name was divinely given. Since then, we have registered as an NGO. Our mission is to preach repentance, rescue souls, care for the homeless, orphans, and the rejected,” he shared.
Today, his mission operates daily from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. with a team of evangelists he personally trains. They are often seen with Bibles, microphones, and tracts, delivering messages of righteousness and holiness to all who pass by.
But the journey has not been without challenges.
“Preaching on the streets is tough. You face insults, harassment, and financial strain. It’s not like church ministry where people come to you. We rely solely on the grace of God and the goodwill of strangers.”
Oghenekaro remains unwavering. He shares stories of divine provision, including a U.S.-based supporter who funded his rent and donated over one million tracts for free distribution.
“We have never asked for offerings. But people see our sincerity and support us willingly. That’s how God has been faithful,” he said.
Despite spiritual and physical attacks, the mission continues. The Christ Soul Rescue Mission now has permission to preach across Nigeria and host crusades. The team also provides support for street dwellers, aiming to rehabilitate and reintegrate them.
“Our goal is not just to preach the gospel but to give hope to the hopeless,” he said. “We are rescuing souls for Christ, not for personal gain.”
For Evangelist Mike Oghenekaro, the gospel is not just a message—it’s a life assignment. As the team lead of Christ Soul Rescue Mission, Oghenekaro has spent years preaching on the streets, harnessing the power of modern tools and old-fashioned passion to win souls and transform lives across Lagos.
“Our mission isn’t about building a crowd. It’s about bringing people to genuine repentance,” he said. “Many preachers today avoid the message of repentance, but that’s what God gave us. That’s our foundation.”
His messages, grounded in Scripture, go beyond physical locations. Through platforms like YouTube, Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram, Oghenekaro and his team reach thousands. Each day begins before dawn, with hours spent in prayer and preparation before hitting the streets by 5:30 a.m. “Every day, I preach from 6 to 10 a.m. We declare the Word, pray with people, and share tracts. That has been my routine for years.”
The street ministry is far from glamorous. Oghenekaro has faced threats, technical setbacks, and intense weather conditions. Once, a vehicle ran over and destroyed his entire sound setup. “They offered to pay for the damage,” he recalled, “but I told them not to because said that we should not collect money from them. I wanted them to understand grace.”. Today, the head of the National Union of Road Transport Worker, also known as Agbero in the area is our friend as our faith and character have been tested over and over again. We have learnt not to complain and murmur
In another incident, a young man suffering from mental distress ran into one of his preaching sessions. Oghenekaro paused his message, prayed over water, and ministered healing. The man calmed down, shared his story, and was reconnected with family. Testimonies like these, he said, are reminders of why God has remain committed.
“There are times I don’t even have batteries for my speaker. But I still show up,” he added. He stores his preaching equipment in a friend’s shop and moves them daily because his former ministry base was sold and demolished. “We lack an office, mobility, even basic gear. Yet, we press on.”
Support comes in small but impactful ways. A friend who is an architect designs and prints tracts, helps fund basic ministry needs, and even pays Oghenekaro a monthly stipend. “He’s one of the pillars God uses to sustain this work,” he said gratefully.
Beyond physical outreach, Oghenekaro runs multiple WhatsApp and Facebook groups with thousands of followers, where he shares devotionals and daily exhortations. “Online or offline, the message is the same: Jesus saves, and repentance is non-negotiable.”
His commitment has inspired others, including his family. Though his wife, a teacher, initially found the schedule overwhelming, she has grown to support the mission. “Even she admits this work is demanding,” he noted.
Asked if he ever considers quitting, Oghenekaro shook his head. “Never. God didn’t bring me this far to abandon the mission.”
His dream? To get a small base for counseling and outreach, renew his aging equipment, and expand the mission into other areas. “Street evangelism is more demanding than pastoring a church,” he said. “We don’t just preach; we follow up, we disciple, and we stay present in people’s lives.”
As he packed his battered speakers at the end of the day, another passerby stopped to greet him. “You’re the one who preaches every morning,” they said. “I set my day by your message.”
For Evangelist Mike Oghenekaro, that acknowledgment is the true reward. “God has not changed. He is still saving souls. And until He says stop, I will keep going.”
Gospel singer Gaise Baba has made history with his latest single, ‘No Turning Back II’ featuring Lawrence Iyor, as it becomes the highest-charting gospel song ever on the TurnTable Top 100.
The track soared to No. 4 on TurnTable, the chart that aggregates data from streaming platforms, television, and radio across Nigeria.
Its success is credited to its uplifting lyrics, infectious rhythm, and widespread popularity on TikTok, where it has sparked viral trends and widespread user engagement, further boosting its reach and impact.
“No Turning Back II” is a modern reimagination of the classic hymn “I have decided to follow Jesus,” blending traditional and contemporary styles to create a unique sound.
This achievement is part of a larger trend of growing commercial success for gospel music in Nigeria.
Following the massive popularity of Lawrence Iyor’s “Favour” in the first quarter of 2025, “No Turning Back II” further solidifies the genre’s resurgence.
TikTok has played a significant role in popularising gospel music among younger audiences, contributing to its increased visibility and appeal.
