El-Morijah Parish Choir, Ikorodu, Lagos, has won the first-ever Celestial Church of Christ’s International Juvenile Musical Choir Competition.
El-Morijah took home a trophy and $2,000, while the first runner-up, Ibara Cathedral, Abeokuta, went home with N500,000, and the second runner-up, Olifi Ijaye Cathedral, went home with N250,000.
Powered by True Word in Season group, the final, which was held at the Agip Recycle Hall of the MUSON Centre complex, featured ten parish choirs in a scintillating evening of musical rendition and praises.
According to frontline music enthusiast and moderator of the day, Ben Ogbeiwi, the competition, part of True Word In Season’s commemoration of Late CCC founder, Pa Samuel Bilewu Joseph Oshoffa’s 40 years transition, ran with the theme: ‘Oshoffa, the sent;’ and had parishes from as far as Benin Republic participating.
Forty-seven parishes started the journey which eventually culminated in the final, where CCC gospel artistes Seyi Solagbade and Mawuyon Ogun, as well as Dr. Tons, Dr Fadeyi and Lt. Commander Wayne, presided as judges.
The only surviving member of the church’s founding board of trustees, Most Superior Samson Banjo, fondly referred to as ‘the last man standing’, set the tone for the day when he shared the dream of the founder.
“It is a year of rebirth and restoration of new spiritual power. To us in the church, it is the end of the Israelites’ 40 years of wandering in the wilderness. My joy is full today because we have special children taking over. Anything that has no youth has no future. This church was ordained by the Almighty God. What we have started today will continue until the end of the world.”
The convener, Bro. Samuel Ademola Bolaji said the musical competition was ordained by the late founder himself.
“One of Papa’s choicest passions was love for juvenile music. What we are doing today is important because we are bringing back the young ones to the culture of the music of the Celestial Church,” he said.
He congratulated all participating parishes and especially the ten finalists.
• Lagos Mainland Diocese ends 7th Synod with closing service
The 7th Synod of the Diocese of Lagos Mainland drew to a close with a solemn and spirit-filled closing service held at Bishop Adelakun Howells Memorial Church, Surulere, Lagos.
The service marked the end of the annual four-day event, which began on May 23 with opening worship at the Cathedral Church of St. Jude, Ebute Metta, Lagos.
The Synod with the theme: ‘But, Do Mine First’, focused on the urgent call for Christians to realign their priorities by placing God’s purpose above personal pursuits.
It emphasised the need for the church and its members to respond to the spiritual, moral and societal challenges of today with faith, obedience and service.
The guest preacher, Bishop of Anglican Diocese Ndokwa Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Revd Festus Nwafili, called on Nigerians to re-evaluate their priorities and place God’s purpose above personal ambitions, warning that misplaced priority was the cause of national and personal setbacks.
Bishop Nwafili drew his message from 1 Kings 17:13, anchoring his exhortation on the theme: ‘But Do Mine First’.
He explored the biblical context of the passage, tracing it to a turbulent era in Israel’s history under King Ahab, a period marked by idolatry, moral decline and social injustice.
“Ahab reigned in Samaria for 22 years and was described as doing more evil in the eyes of the Lord than any before him,” Bishop Nwafili said.
“It was during his time that men dared to rebuild Jericho against God’s warning, sacrificing their sons in the process. It was an age of rebellion and oppression, similar to the realities we face today in our nation.”
Referencing Prophet Elijah’s confrontation with the challenges of the time, the bishop recounted how Elijah declared a famine as divine punishment for Israel’s disobedience.
For three years, the land suffered drought and hunger. Yet, in the midst of despair, God provided for Elijah through unexpected means, ravens at a brook and later, a poor widow in Zarephath.
According to Bishop Nwafili, God’s instruction to Elijah to seek sustenance from a destitute widow was a profound demonstration of divine paradox, using the weak and inadequate to manifest His glory.
“Widows in biblical times were among the most helpless, yet God sent Elijah not to a wealthy benefactor, but to a woman with almost nothing,” he said. “This shows that God uses the weak things of the world to shame the strong, the foolish to shame the wise.”
He noted that the widow’s obedience to Elijah’s request, giving her last meal first to the prophet, triggered divine provision that sustained both her and her household throughout the famine. The bishop emphasised that the widow’s selflessness and faith unlocked blessings that logic could not have anticipated.
Drawing parallels with the present-day Nigerian context, Bishop Nwafili said the country was experiencing its own version of Ahab’s reign, where leaders prioritised selfish ambitions over righteousness and where citizens faced economic hardship and systemic injustice.
“Like Naboth, whose vineyard was unjustly taken under Ahab, many Nigerians are being oppressed and dispossessed today,” he remarked. “But in times of crisis, God seeks men and women who will put His purpose first.”
He warned that when God’s people consistently disobey, He may even raise vessels outside their midst to fulfil His purpose, just as He did by sending Elijah to a non-Israelite widow. Quoting Luke 4, Bishop Nwafili reminded the congregation that among the many widows in Israel, only the woman in Zarephath was chosen, because of her obedience.
“It’s a dangerous thing when God’s people persist in rebellion,” he said. “He can bypass them to show His faithfulness elsewhere.”
The sermon was concluded with a passionate appeal to Christians to reassess their values and pursue divine interests over personal agendas.
“We all have plans. We’re all busy. But heaven is asking: Are your priorities aligned with mine?” he questioned. “God is saying, ‘But Do Mine First.’ Until we place the eternal over the temporary, our struggles may continue in vain.”
The Archbishop of Calabar and Spiritual Leader of God’s Heritage Nation, Archbishop Josef Bassey, has warned about the perilous state of Nigerian children, describing them as “a people under siege” in a nation that is fast abandoning its future.
In a statement by his Calabar office, Archbishop Bassey decried the deepening crisis facing Nigerian children, ranging from mass poverty, the collapse of value systems, and systemic neglect, to rising insecurity and poor governance.
“Across our land, from the rural hamlets of Zamfara to the urban slums of Lagos, millions of children wake up daily in hunger, go to bed in fear, and live each moment under the weight of a future that is fast slipping out of their reach,” the Archbishop said.
He referenced alarming statistics including Nigeria’s over 18.5 million out-of-school children, which he described as not just a “national embarrassment,” but a signpost of generational abandonment.
“The Nigerian child is endangered — by poverty that strips them of hope, by moral decay, and by institutional failure that offers them neither protection nor opportunity,” he stated.
Archbishop Bassey, who also serves as President of the Cross River Christian Leaders Forum, made a nationwide and global call to action, urging the President to declare a National Emergency on Child Welfare and Protection.
“We need a National Child Rescue Agenda — not tomorrow, but today,” he declared.
He further challenged Governors, lawmakers, religious and traditional leaders, as well as international partners to rise from rhetoric to visible and measurable action.
“This is not the time to celebrate with balloons and branded T-shirts while ignoring the reality. Children’s Day must not become a ceremonial distraction. It must become a national conscience day,” he insisted.
Calling on parents to return to their spiritual and moral duties as custodians of destiny, Archbishop Bassey lamented the cultural erosion affecting young minds through unchecked media content and collapsing family structures.
“The child you fail today will become the crisis you cannot cure tomorrow,” he warned.
The Archbishop concluded with a plea for all sectors of society to come together and reverse the current trajectory, describing the situation as a test of national conscience.
“Let it be said that we awoke in time to save the seed. Let Nigeria not be remembered as the nation that buried her best before they ever blossomed,” he said.
Bassey is widely recognised for his prophetic leadership, social advocacy, and educational interventions across Nigeria. His latest message adds to a growing chorus of voices demanding urgent reform and renewed commitment to the welfare of Nigerian children.
The election of Cardinal Robert Prevost as Pope Leo XIV—the first American-born pontiff has stirred a mix of joy, curiosity, and cautious optimism among Catholics in Nigeria. While many view his appointment as a sign of renewed global leadership and continuity with Pope Francis’ legacy of compassion and reform, others voice concerns about the moral and ideological challenges associated with his American roots. From university students and priests to theologians and street workers, Nigerian voices are echoing both excitement and apprehension as the Church turns a new page under Pope Leo XIV.
“I am excited about the appointment of a new pope for the Catholic church. I believe that he will be able to consolidate Pope Francis’ legacy of promoting world peace and bringing faith back to the church.
“I am consciously excited about our new Pope. It is given that every Catholic faithful like me should be happy. The challenge is having a Pope from America, where the challenge of moral depravity makes me worry. We are waiting to see his plans and vision for the church. We are also praying for him to succeed”.
These were the words of a student from Bell University in Ogun State, Arnold Obodoechi and a phone repairer and security officer, Godwin Osai in Lagos. The duo are Catholic faithful who spoke to The Nation as Catholic faithful relish the appointment of the first American pope: Cardinal Robert Prevost, the first US-born pontiff and will be known as Pope Leo XIV on the 8th of May.
Obodoechi said that the world is in turmoil and faith is fast fading away, especially among young people. This is a new and major challenge for the new pope around the world. How do we bring faith back to the church?
Osai, who lamented the state of things in Nigeria and worldwide, remains optimistic about the success of the new pope because the Catholic Church is a praying church. Though the new Pope is an American, where they are trying to sell same sex marriage, calls for vigilance. Same sex or LGBTQ is a curse and is alien to the Catholic faith. We don’t want to walk that path again as a church.
Nigerian clerics are offering blend of optimism, caution, and expectations
Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Unamba, of the Order of St. Augustine and a key organiser of a chapter meeting in Maraba, Nasarawa State, an event that Pope Leo XIV (then a cardinal and former bishop of Peru) had attended, expressed deep excitement over the news.
“We are so happy,” he said. “This is someone we have known. Pope Leo XIV visited Nigeria several times during his tenure as the Prior General of our order between 2001 and 2013. I met him during a general chapter in 2016 when I was head of logistics. I never imagined then that I was standing next to a future pope.”
Fr. Unamba described the new pope as a “moderate,” a quality he says distinguishes him from his predecessor, Pope Francis.
“People misunderstood Pope Francis as being too quick with reforms. Pope Leo will continue in that spirit but with moderation. He is a man of deep compassion, particularly for the poor and forgotten, but he’s also firm and focused. He gets things done.”
He further noted that the Augustinian roots of Pope Leo XIV are significant: “The Augustinian order emphasises community, humility, and service, values we expect will define his papacy.”
Asked if the Augustinians plan to celebrate the elevation of one of their own, Fr. Unamba smiled: “I don’t know yet, but surely, we’re rejoicing in our hearts.”
Meanwhile, Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka, a prominent Catholic priest based in Enugu, delivered an emotional response, calling the pope’s election an act of divine grace.
“The conclave could have lasted a week or more, but God simplified it. The white smoke appeared within two days—what should be difficult, God made simple,” Fr. Mbaka declared.
He defined Pope Leo XIV as “a humble, simple man of God,” adding: “He appeared like the moon; there is nothing anybody can do about it. God has chosen him.”
In a powerful exhortation to the faithful, Fr. Mbaka urged prayers for the new pope: “The pope in this present time is not like the pope 20 years ago. The world is changing. We are in a technology age with new mindsets, and people now question even biblical truths. To be a pope in such a time demands divine guidance.”
He called on all Catholics to see Pope Leo XIV as a spiritual father and light-bearer.
“He is our Papacy, the servant of the servants of God. May he never be exposed to predators or the forces of darkness? We cover him with the blood of Jesus. Through him, may the Church in our time enjoy a new flow of the Holy Spirit.”
New dawn for the Catholic Church- Father Alumuku
Fr Patrick Alumuku, Director of Social Communications, Catholic Archdiocese of Abuja, a Nigerian Catholic priest, joined many faithful in welcoming the dawn of a new era for the global Church.
“I didn’t expect it to be so fast,” he said, referring to the brevity of the conclave. Despite the speed, the priest sees it as a sign that the cardinals went into the conclave with clarity and unity about the Church’s future.
This clarity produced a surprise candidate. “We didn’t expect the Augustinian,” Father Alumuku admitted. “His name never came up anywhere; it was a dark horse candidacy.” But that, he suggested, may have been the point. “The saying in Rome is: whoever goes into the conclave as pope comes out a cardinal.”
Yet behind the surprise was a man of exceptional pedigree. Born in Chicago, Pope Leo XIV has served in the U.S., Latin America, and Rome, and speaks fluent English, Spanish, and Italian. “He knows the Church in the developed and developing world,” Father Alumuku said. “He’s been a missionary, a bishop, a Vatican administrator, he has what it takes.”
Subtle messages, strong statements
Despite being American, Pope Leo notably avoided speaking English during his first address from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, opting instead for Latin, Italian, and Spanish.
Asked whether the omission was deliberate, Father Alumuku reflected: “He may have been sending a message—especially to his fellow Americans—that this is not about nationalism. He is not an ‘American pope.’ He is the Bishop of Rome, the head of the universal Church.”
That global outlook was echoed in the new pontiff’s first words, where he emphasised three themes: being a missionary Church, a united Church, and a synodal Church—ideas strongly associated with Pope Francis.
“He called on us to be ‘missionaria’, a missionary people,” Father Alumuku explained. “This means we must go back to the basics: evangelising, reaching out, and making Christ known to people who haven’t heard of Him.”
Challenges on the horizon
But the enthusiasm of the moment doesn’t mask the realities ahead. “The fanfare will soon be over,” Father Alumuku acknowledged. “And then we must get back to the work of uniting the Church.”
The Church stands at a crossroads, dealing with global polarization, declining vocations in the West, and sensitive social issues—among them the role of women, the treatment of LGBTQ+ Catholics, and the push for inclusivity.
While Pope Francis’ statement about the blessing of gay individuals sparked widespread debate, Father Limoko emphasized the need for clarity. “There’s a big difference between blessing people and blessing unions. The Church must be careful not to confuse the two.”
He added that many African Catholics were disappointed by suggestions that an African pope would have been “too conservative.” “It’s sad. We understand world dynamics too. The Church in Africa is the fastest-growing in the world. It would be a mistake for any pope today not to take us seriously.”
Moderate reformer
As Pope Leo XIV begins his papacy, he’s seen by many as a moderate—a man who balances tradition with reform. “That’s a good thing,” said Father Limoko. “The Church needs someone with two feet on the ground.”
On reforms initiated by Pope Francis, such as bringing more laypeople and women into leadership roles, he expects continuity. “We saw women heading ministries in the Vatican for the first time, laypersons taking up strategic posts. Pope Leo is likely to continue that.”
The goal, according to the priest, is opening the Church without losing its soul. “We need to remain rooted in 2,000 years of tradition, but we must also show the world that Catholicism is alive, relevant, and welcoming.”
Pope for the whole church
From his early life in the U.S. to his missionary work in Latin America, from Vatican corridors to his Augustinian roots, Pope Leo XIV embodies the universality of the Church. He brings a global lens to an ancient office, just the kind of perspective needed at a time when the Church must evangelise anew in a fractured world.
“He quoted St. Augustine yesterday,” Father Limoko noted. “He said, ‘With you, I’m a Christian. For you, I am a bishop.’ That’s humility. That’s leadership.”
As the Church embraces its new leader, the excitement is palpable. But how long will the honeymoon last?
“Just a little while,” Father Limoko laughed. “Then we get to work. And that’s the real beauty of the Church,it never stops.”
New Pope’s leadership signals return to core theology, says Nigerian theologians
Two leading Nigerian theologians have offered cautious yet hopeful reflections on the newly elected Pope, suggesting his leadership could mark a return to core Christian doctrines and a more conservative approach to Church reforms.
In an exclusive interview with The Nation, a Theologian and Setman of Grace Missions International, Pastor Evans Adetokunbo Emmanuel shared his initial impression of the new Pope, highlighting the pontiff’s deep-rooted missionary background and concern for the marginalised.
“I feel, and I still feel, that we are looking at someone theologically well-dressed, who has demonstrated strong pastoral leadership,” he said. “His work with the poor in countries like Peru and his visits to Africa, including Nigeria, show he is not just administrative but deeply pastoral.”
On his part, the Deputy Provost of the Africa Centre for Theological Studies, Pastor William Udotong, said that he wasn’t very familiar with him prior to his election. “But I do recognise that his appointment marks the first time a Pope has emerged from the Americas, which in itself was a surprise, and it happened rather quickly. His past involvement in places like Peru, Congo, and Nigeria suggests a global perspective, which is noteworthy.
On theology and global challenges
Emmanuel pointed out that the Pope’s choice of papal name drawn from the Leo line, particularly Pope Leo XIII, signals alignment with past Popes who advocated for the working class and wrote extensively on labour and economic justice.
“This suggests he might be a strong advocate against global poverty,” Pastor Emmanuel noted.
Touching on global crises, he emphasised the Pope’s likely focus on war and terrorism.
“I believe he will act more than speak when it comes to issues like the Russia-Ukraine war, the crisis in Gaza, Sudan, Congo, and terrorism in West Africa, particularly Northern Nigeria.”
On gender and LGBTQ+ issues
When asked about how the new Pope might address gender roles and LGBTQ+ inclusion in the Catholic Church, Pastor Emmanuel predicted a conservative shift.
“He is more conservative than Pope Francis. While Pope Francis said, ‘Who am I to judge?’ and allowed blessings for same-sex couples, I think this Pope will retreat from that position, perhaps not confrontationally, but certainly in practice,” he explained.
He also noted potential minimal shifts in the role of women within the Church, but doubted the ordination of women or immediate changes to clerical celibacy.
“The celibacy rule may be debated, but not radically changed any time soon,” he said. “It’s a major issue, especially considering past abuses in the Church. However, any reform will take time.”
Pastor Udotong concurred: “I don’t expect him to deviate from what the Bible teaches. The scripture is clear. I hope he will reflect deeply on biblical teachings and maintain the Church’s traditional stance, especially on marriage and gender identity.”
Return to the Nicene Creed
One of the most striking observations Pastor Emmanuel shared was the Pope’s apparent emphasis on the Nicene Creed, a foundational Christian statement of faith formed in the fourth century.
“If he is indeed revisiting the Nicene Creed, it’s significant,” he said. “That’s the core of what all Christian denominations including Catholic, Protestant, Pentecostal all believe. If he centers that, we might witness a unifying revival in global Christianity.”
African representation and hope
On the issue of African representation, Pastor Emmanuel acknowledged that while expectations were high for a Black Pope, this new pontiff has strong African ties, particularly through his repeated visits to Nigeria and his association with the Augustinian order, named after St. Augustine, an African theologian.
“He understands Africa’s place in Church history. His inclusion of the Nigerian president at the Vatican speaks volumes,” he noted. “Given his conservative stance on social issues, he will enjoy strong support from African clergy.”
Nigerian context and challenges
When asked about the most pressing challenges facing the Catholic Church in Nigeria, Pastor Emmanuel emphasized the danger posed by terrorism.
“Terrorists often target Catholic clergy because of their visibility and symbolic power. The Pope cannot ignore this,” he said. “We need his global influence to pressure governments to act.”
Udotong thinks differently stating that the new Pope represents the entire Catholic Church, and I believe he will strive to be fair and just in his leadership. I don’t expect the Nigerian Church or any other regional body will be treated differently. Inclusion should be based on fairness, and that’s what I believe he stands for.
Outlook on theological education and reform
Regarding potential shifts in theological practice and education in Nigeria, the pastor said the Pope’s conservative theological leanings would align with the prevailing culture among Nigerian clergy.
“Most Nigerian Catholics already reject liberal stances on LGBTQ+ and gender roles,” he stated. “But if the Pope centres the Nicene Creed and walks back post-Creed doctrines, we could see meaningful reform that strengthens unity and biblical orthodoxy.”
In conclusion, Pastor Emmanuel remains hopeful. “If the new Pope can lead a return to the essentials of our faith — Scripture, Christ, the Creed, it will be a profound moment for global Christianity.”
Udotong added a cautionary note: that many are indeed calling for reforms and modernisation, but we must be careful not to set an agenda for the Pope. I hope that he will bring the Church closer to the biblical standard, more ethical, and more grounded in scripture. If some practices need to be reviewed or reformed, it should be done within the scope of the Bible. We shouldn’t allow external cultural values, especially those not aligned with Scripture, to dictate the direction of the Church.
Ministers and ministry leaders across the world recently gathered virtually for the 7th edition of the International School of Ministry (ISM) Classroom with Pastor Chris Oyakhilome.
According to the organisers, the programme is set to launch all ministers of the gospel into a new and unprecedented phase of ministry advancement for the complete preaching of the gospel to all nations.
Since its inception in 2018, the ISM Global Ministers’ Classroom has been an extraordinary catalyst for church leaders globally in transforming ministries and igniting passion for fulfilling the gospel mandate.
What began as a gathering of 8 million ministers has grown exponentially, reaching 78 million ministers in 2022, 168 million in 2023, and a ground-breaking record of over 200 million in 2024.
The 7th edition, which ended yesterday, featured profound teachings from seasoned senior ministers of the Gospel from around the world, live question and answers with Pastor Chris, addressing burning questions for ministers, insightful panel discussions on vital topics shaping the last days’ church, plenary sessions with Pastor Chris, which is a moment of divine impartation and transformation, and lots more.
Lead Pastor, Harvesters International Christians Centre (HICC), Pastor Bolaji Idowu, who is one of the organisers, said: “As the urgency to complete the great commission resounds across the body of Christ, the 2025 Global Ministers’ Classroom delivered the opportunity for ministers of the gospel to receive fresh inspiration of the Spirit to fulfill and complete their divine assignment with joy.”
He urged ministers from every nation to seize this divine moment and align themselves to rekindle their passion for the gospel and receive practical strategies for Kingdom advancement in these last days.
The programme was broadcasted live in multiple languages of the world, ensuring that every minister participated in the language they best understood. This seamless accessibility ensures that ministers can fully engage in the teachings, fellowship, and impartation in their preferred languages.
He posited that ISM had been at the forefront of ministerial training and development, impacting Pastors and Church ministry leaders with the requisite knowledge to excel in their divine assignment.
He spoke yesterday at the first session of the 7th Synod of the Diocese of Lagos Mainland (Anglican Communion), held at the Cathedral of St. Jude, Ebute Meta, Lagos.
Preaching on the theme “But Do Mine First”, drawn from 1 Kings 17:13, Rev. Saki used the encounter between the prophet Elijah and the widow of Zarephath to challenge believers to listen to God, obey Him completely, and trust Him, even in scarcity.
“Elijah said to her, ‘Do not be afraid. Go and do as you have said, but first make a small cake of bread for me, then make some for yourself and your son.’ It’s a hard instruction, but it is one rooted in faith,” he said.
Saki told hundreds gathered that the woman’s decision to first serve Elijah, despite preparing to eat her last meal and die, demonstrated radical obedience that God rewarded with abundance.
“When you hear from God, you cannot miss your way. When you obey, miracles follow,” Rev. Saki said. “That jar of flour did not run out, and the jug of oil did not run dry. God is still speaking today, and it is in our interest to hear and obey.”
Breaking the message into three focal points, hearing from God, obeying what is heard, and receiving the reward of obedience, the cleric challenged the congregation to examine whether their current life paths were truly led by God’s voice.
“Where are you now? Who sent you there? Are you operating on divine instruction or your agenda?” he asked. “Just as Elijah did not move to Zarephath on his own, you too must wait to hear from God before acting.”
Rev. Saki, who interwove the biblical exposition with a personal testimony of divine guidance during a road trip from Lagos to Warri, emphasised that God still speaks clearly to His people, through His Word, inner promptings, and life circumstances.
“The fact that you are not hearing God doesn’t mean He’s not speaking,” he said. “It is your business to train your ears. If you can hear Him say ‘Do Mine First’, your breakthrough is just ahead.”
The sermon climaxed with a call to believers to live sacrificially and prioritise God’s kingdom, especially in uncertain times.
“The woman gave the little she had, and God multiplied it. We must put God first, especially when it’s hardest. That’s when faith truly works,” Rev. Saki concluded.
The Synod, which continues through the weekend, gathered clergy, lay delegates, and diocesan leaders from across Lagos Mainland to reflect, plan, and renew their commitment to the mission of the church.
A powerful wave of spiritual transformation swept through the Expo Centre in Johannesburg as thousands gathered for the Synagogue, Church of All Nations (SCOAN) South Africa Revival, themed, “Holy Spirit Visitation with Evelyn Joshua.”
The one-day revival, held recently, brought together attendees from across South Africa and neighboring countries, drawn by the promise of healing, deliverance, and divine encounter.
Leading the revival was wife of the late Prophet T.B. Joshua and current leader of SCOAN, Pastor Evelyn Joshua accompanied by a team of SCOAN evangelists. Together, they delivered stirring messages of hope, healing, and restoration to a charged and expectant audience.
Testimonies of healing and breakthrough poured in throughout the event, with many describing the revival as a life-changing moment. From physical ailments to emotional burdens, participants shared how they experienced “supernatural manifestations” of God’s power.
Among the notable testimonies was Andrew Makodi, who removed his body brace after reportedly receiving healing from osteoarthritis. Rebecca Mathoda from Limpopo shared her relief from chronic shoulder pain caused by muscle spasms, while Mr. and Mrs. Jeyi tearfully testified about healing from Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, which had long hindered their hopes for parenthood.
Also taking the stage was Emma Sebatlelo, who had previously relied on crutches and braces. Before the cheering crowd, she walked unaided, declaring her freedom from severe joint issues. Similarly, Kgomotso Mothupi celebrated her healing from osteoarthritis in both knees.
“It was the Word that built our faith,” one attendee remarked. “And that faith opened the door to a divine visitation.”
In addition, a cash donation of R100, 000 was presented by Pastor Joshua to support the community’s welfare.
She encouraged the people with words of hope, assuring them of God’s unwavering love and provision.
Emmanuel Omotosho, through Falana & Falana Chambers, has demanded retraction of alleged false and defamatory statement against Prophet Sam Olu-Alo by one Daniels Rotimi Paul.
Omotosho alleged that Daniels has been spreading malicious and falsehood statements against Olu-Alo, who he described as his spiritual father, mentor and benefactor.
Omotosho in the letter dated 21, May 2025 and signed by Adams Atata of Falana & Falana Chambers demanded that Daniels retract his defamatory statements against the Prophet.
The letter titled: “Complaint against your spread of malicious falsehood, blackmail, cyberstalking, cyberbullying, and character assassination of Prophet Sam Olu Alo” reads: “The above subject matter refers: We are solicitors to Emmanuel Odunayo Omotosho,of 65, Obayan Street,off Community Road, Akoka, Lagos State, hereinafter referred to as our Client, and at his behest and authority we write you.
“It has been brought to our attention that you have taken to various social media platforms using “Rotimi Daniels to malign, publish, disseminate, and promote false, malicious, and defamatory content targeting our Client’s spiritual father, mentor and benefactor, Prophet Sam Olu Alo.
“While you apparently know that these statements are not only baseless, with no iota of truth whatsoever, you are bent on uttering them to damage our Client’s reputation, impugn his character, and mislead the public.
“Please be informed that your actions amount to a gross violation of Prophet Sam Olu Alo’s rights under the law, including but not limited to defamation, cyberstalking, cyberbullying, and character assassination. These are actionable wrongs for which you may be held liable in both civil and criminal law”.
Daniels was issued seven days from May 21 to retract all alleged false and defamatory statements against the cleric on all social media platforms and any other channels where such statements have been published.
Pastor Ayooluwa Olabanji, the elder brother of gospel singer, Olori Jesu, has paid tributes to her on birthday.
He described her as a global star who has shone the good name of the family and the body of Christ.
Going down memory lane, he wrote: “Your day to me has deep meaning. Pondering on it, I saw that God’s taught is far different from man’s.
“Your conception was preceded by serious fight between both parents. Mother was not ready to go into any more labour. That didn’t go well with Dad and he picked up fight that the family members were involved.
“As African culture will have it, mother had no choice but to go through another rigour of pregnancy, labour and nursing.
“When you finally arrived, right from *Alalade memorial hospital* of number 14 Shonde street off Adeshina, Ijeshatedo, Surulere, Lagos, Nigeria, the atmosphere was filled with great joy.
“Road was blocked on your naming ceremony and lots of money spent to express our father’s joy.
“Your infancy and childhood were interesting. You were seriously pampered. Father on many occasions vested his anger on us whenever we touch you. I was too young to understand that your case was like that of Joseph and Benjamin(child of old age)
“Hmmm we’ve fought, we’ve resolved, we had good times and had dark moments but life had taught me that the be best you can be is to be yourself.
“Growing, I have tried stopping you from acting thinking I was helping you. Today you’re a star in the same entertainment industry(thanks to your stubbornness and perseverance.
“Kid sis, no doubt you are a global phenomenon, ogo orile ede, irawo idile. Your best is yet to come. Keeping on shining. Music is in your blood.
“I wish you many more years in good health in Jesus’ name.”
A group of friends, associates and well-wishers have hailed the life and legacy of gospel singer Olori Jesu, on her birthday.
A statement on May 20 to mark her birthday reads:
“On this day, we honor not only her birthday but also the immense impact she has made through her ministry of music.
“From her early beginnings to becoming a recognized name in gospel music, Olori Jesu has remained steadfast in her mission: to uplift, inspire, and lead souls to Christ through the power of song. With a voice that pierces through the soul and lyrics rooted in deep spiritual truth, she has carved a unique space for herself in the hearts of believers and music lovers around the world.
“Her songs carry a blend of worship, praise, and prophetic declarations—each one echoing with authenticity and anointing. Albums like “Ase Itura” and “Oro Ngboro Mi” have become anthems in churches and homes, reminding listeners of God’s unending mercy and greatness.
“Beyond the microphone, Olori Jesu is a woman of integrity, humility, and faith. Her life is a testimony of God’s grace and favor. She uses every platform not for self-promotion, but to glorify God and edify His people. Her ministry extends to mentoring young musicians, supporting charitable causes, and being a light in her community.
“As she celebrates another year today, we join her family, fans, and the body of Christ in thanking God for her life. May this new chapter be filled with fresh oil, divine favor, and even greater exploits for the Kingdom of God.
“Happy Birthday, Olori Jesu!
May your voice never grow dim, and may your days be filled with joy, strength, and heavenly blessings. The world is blessed to have you, and we look forward to the many more songs, testimonies, and wonders your journey will bring.”
