The Nation Newspaper

Category: Worship

  • TD Jakes: Family succession and future of church leadership

    TD Jakes: Family succession and future of church leadership

    The global Christian community was stirred when renowned preacher and Senior Pastor of The Potter’s House, Thomas Dexter Jakes (popularly known as TD Jakes), announced on April 27, 2025, that he was handing over leadership of his Dallas megachurch to his daughter, Sarah Jakes Roberts, and son-in-law, Pastor Touré Roberts.

    The announcement, streamed live on YouTube, came just months after Jakes survived a heart attack and faced legal battles over a defamation case. Addressing his congregation, Jakes said, “I cannot afford to hold this so tight so long that I wither away. So I’m recommending to you that you receive Pastor Touré and Pastor Sarah.”

    Jakes, who has ministered for nearly 50 years, emphasised that this transition was not family favouritism but a divine calling. “This is not an inheritance. This is a calling,” he stressed. “I respect God too much to put someone up here just because they are kin to me.”

    Is God’s ministry family inheritance?

    While many celebrate Sarah Jakes Roberts’ qualifications and spiritual growth, others have raised questions:

     “Has God’s ministry become a matter of family inheritance?”

    In the U.S., several prominent pastors of mega-churches are currently being succeeded by the children of their founders. TD Jakes will not be the last as it is becoming a tradition among some Pentecostal churches in the US.

    Joel Osteen took over from his father, John Osteen, at Lakewood Church, Houston.

    Judah Smith succeeded his father, Wendell Smith, at City Church, Seattle.

    Jonathan Stockstill became pastor at Bethany World, Louisiana, following his father and grandfather.

    Jonathan Falwell followed his father, Jerry Falwell, at Thomas Road Baptist Church, Virginia.

    Rudolph McKissick Jr. succeeded his father in Bethel Bible, Florida.

    Keisha Hilliard took over from her father, Ira Hilliard, at New Light Church, Houston.

    In Nigeria, the issue and controversies around succession are usually prominent in most Pentecostal churches and churches that make up the Organisation of African Instituted Churches (OAIC), popularly known as ‘Aladura’ and the likes, who see the church as a family heritage. In Nigeria, we have seen similar patterns:

    Archbishop Margaret Idahosa succeeded her husband in 1998 at the Church of God Mission International.

    Pastor Jimi Odukoya became the senior pastor at The Fountain of Life Church after his father, Taiwo Odukoya.

    Dr. Oluremi Obembe took over El-Shaddai Bible Church after her husband, Archbishop Lanre Obembe.

    Rev. Nkechi Ilupotaife succeeded her late husband, Hayford Ilupotaife, at Victory Christian Church.

    Pastor Roseline Oduyemi followed Rev. Gabriel Oduyemi at Bethel Worship Centre.

    Rev. Janet Onaolapo took over Abundant Life Gospel Church after her husband, Kola Onaolapo.

    Rev Mercy Ezekiel became the General Overseer of Christian Pentecostal Mission after her late husband, Rev Dr. Obiora Ezekiel.

    The founder of Celestial Church of Christ (CCC), Samuel Bilewu Joseph Oshoffa, now has his son, Reverend Emmanuel Oshoffa, as the spiritual head of the church.

     Succession strengthens churches

    Church growth experts say that when done with discernment, family succession can strengthen a church.

    “Family members often share the founding vision and values, making it easier to maintain consistency,” said Dr. Olufemi Emmanuel, President of West Africa Theological Seminary, in an interview. “If the successor is well-trained, spiritually mature, and called by God, they can build on the legacy while innovating for the future.”

    Archbishop Joseph Ojo, General Overseer of Calvary Kingdom Church (CKC), echoed this view, telling The Nation: “We don’t give responsibility because of age or bloodline; we look at commitment, capacity, and calling. If a son or daughter has served faithfully, they may be well-positioned to lead. But it must be God-led, not just family-driven.

    Call for caution Critics, however, warned that without careful discernment, family succession could bring its challenges, including nepotism, mediocrity, and even church decline.

    Rev. Dr. Gideon Odoma, a Nigerian theologian and public thinker, raised caution: “The danger lies in assuming spiritual leadership is hereditary. Ministry is not a monarchy. A pastor’s child is not automatically the next pastor unless they show clear evidence of a divine call, spiritual maturity, and leadership ability. Otherwise, you risk demotivating gifted leaders in the congregation.”

    International church consultant Dr. Mark Johnson, bearing his mind, said:

     “Some of the most vibrant churches today have transitioned leadership through prayerful, transparent selection processes — not automatic family handovers. When churches treat succession like an inheritance, they may unintentionally weaken their future.”

    In defence of family succession

    Archbishop Joseph Ojo, while reflecting on family succession in ministry, observed that only informed people are qualified to speak on the matter. He observed that many of those who are condemning the practice had never at any time been involved in church management.

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    “Most people commenting are not involved in church management. Leadership is managed from the inside, not the outside,” he said.

    Ojo shared that his son, Best, is in full-time ministry and has served faithfully as youth president, music director, and head of media.

     “If God says yes, why not? We don’t give responsibility based on age but on commitment. If someone shows dedication and has the capacity, they are appointed — no matter their age,” he emphasised.

    Personal experience

    Also, speaking with The Nation, Bishop Charles Ighele, General Superintendent, Holy Spirit Mission (The Happy Family Nation), responding to the question of whether succession should be a family affair, said, “As far as I am concerned, it should be a Jesus affair. What I mean is that Jesus, who is the head of the Church, should be allowed to pick the man or woman He thinks can do His work better.

     “Jesus said that He will build His Church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail. If Jesus is not allowed to decide the human agents that can do the work better, such a church can become a place where religious activities take place, but God is not worshipped in spirit and truth. It becomes a place where people just go to church,” he said.

    He noted that if God wants a wife or son or daughter to take over the leadership of the church, no problem with that at all. And if God wants a non-family member to take over leadership,  no problem at all.

     “In my case, my father-in-law (Bishop Michael Marioghae) handed over the leadership of the Holy Spirit Mission (The Happy Family Nation), which he started in 1974, to me. His first daughter was and still is a pastor. My wife is the second child and a pastor. Her immediate younger brother was and still is a pastor.”

    He continued: “In a meeting in December 1996 with some of us who were his pastors, the founder said that God told him that his time on planet earth would soon come to an end and that his work was over and that he should pick a successor. He said that God told him to pick me as his successor.

     “He officially handed over to me in January 1997, and he never stepped into the office or interfered with the running of the church until he died a few years later.

     “For me, a church that is not set up by witchdoctors or people driven by personal ambition should allow the Spirit of God to pick a successor,” he said.

    Final reflection

    While debates about family succession in ministry continue, many leaders insist that the ultimate qualifier is God’s calling, not bloodline. As TD Jakes hands over The Potter’s House pulpit, the world is watching to see how Sarah Jakes Roberts and Touré Roberts will shape the next chapter of one of America’s most influential megachurches.

  • ‘Tinubu reforms will bring relief to Nigeria’

    ‘Tinubu reforms will bring relief to Nigeria’

    Amid ongoing reforms by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu across various sectors, Pastor David Alamu.of Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Vineyard of Deliverance Abule Egba has called for calm and patience, assuring that the changes will ultimately bring relief and progress. In an interview with David Bolarinwa, Alamu expressed confidence in Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, affirming that his leadership is divinely ordained to complete the work of national transformation.


    You prophesied that Tinubu will become The President. Can you take us through The prophecy? 

    The Bible says “The secret of the Lord is with those who fear Him,” and I believe that deeply. Long before the 2023 elections back when Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu was still a Governor, God revealed to me that he would one day become the President of Nigeria. It wasn’t just a personal conviction; it was divine insight.

    So, when I later heard of his intention to run for the presidency, I didn’t hesitate to make it public: Tinubu is the man God has chosen to help restore and rebuild Nigeria. During the primaries, as the political atmosphere grew tense and uncertain, I released another message saying “Nothing can stop Tinubu from becoming President.” That wasn’t a political statement, it was a declaration. 

    Did the prophecy come with any form of warning or challenges that Nigeria would face during this administration?

    The prophecy came with warnings as often with divine revelations. There’s a Yoruba adage that says, ‘Anyone who seeks success will face many challenges.’ Before Nigeria can experience the greatness we desire, we must first endure the struggles and challenges that come with progress. Like the children of Israel, who faced hardships and wandering in the wilderness before reaching the Promised Land, our journey is also filled with trials. These difficulties are not setbacks, but necessary steps in the process of transformation.

    Just as the Israelites’ struggles were part of God’s plan for their eventual victory, so too is Nigeria’s path through pain a precursor to the greatness ahead. The challenges we face today are the pains of growth, the pains of greatness. While the journey may be tough, it is essential for us to emerge stronger. Like them, we too will reach our Promised Land, a Nigeria that is prosperous, peaceful, and united, as long as we hold on to faith and keep moving forward, relief will come. 

    Many Nigerians are complaining of economic hardship  From a spiritual point of view, should they be hopeful?

    I will like to answer this in two ways. From the spiritual standpoint and the physical. Spiritually, any believer will know that this is the coming to pass of the prophecy in the Bible that in the end of the world, there will be tribulations, when the coming of Jesus is near, there will be hunger and breakout of different diseases. All these that we are experiencing is just the manifestation of the prophecy in the Bible. 

    On the other hand, physically, we thank God for what is happening because everyone is now prioritising farming. Even countries that are more advanced are taking farming seriously. I was opportune to live in Israel and they prioritise farming, I believe that now that we are going into farming, by the end of this year we would be out of hunger. 

    If you look at it critically, the removal of fuel subsidy is a blessing to us as Nigerians. There are less fuel stations unlike before where anybody can just startup a petroleum business, and I can remember when Tinubu announced the removal of subsidy, in Cameroon they were protesting. In Cotonou, they were protesting, which means we are the ones supplying fuel to them.Our money is what they depend on. So all of these are what I believe will help Nigeria become better economically. 

    Have you received any prophecy on the 2027 elections?Will Tinubu be re-elected?

    We all understand that we operate under a democratic system of government where anyone has the right to contest for political office. That’s the beauty of democracy. But as people of faith, we also know that it is ultimately God who appoints leaders. The Bible says promotion does not come from the east or the west but from God. When He places someone in a position of authority, it is for a divine purpose and God does not speak and then change His mind. He is not a man that He should lie, nor the son of man that He should repent.

    God revealed that He wants to use Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a vessel for the reformation of Nigeria, and that process is already underway. Despite the challenges, he is still the man God is using in this season. That’s why I believe, without doubt, that come 2027, Tinubu will be re-elected, not by accident but by divine mandate to complete the assignment God has given him. And when that mission is fulfilled, God will raise up another leader to continue the work. It is not about one man; it is about God’s agenda for Nigeria, and that plan will unfold exactly as He has ordained it.

    Read Also: Tinubu’s economic reforms impressive, says British envoy

    Should church leaders take active roles in politics?

    business, and I can remember when Tinubu announced the removal of subsidy, in Camerron they were protesting, in Cotonou, they were protesting, which means we are the ones suppling fuel to them, our money is what they depend on, so all of these are what I believe will help Nigeria become better economically. 

    Have You Received Any Prophecy Concerning The 2027 Elections, And Will Tinubu Be Re-Elected?

    We all understand that we operate under a democratic system of government, where anyone has the right to contest for political office. That’s the beauty of democracy. But as people of faith, we also know that it is ultimately God who appoints leaders. The Bible says promotion does not come from the east or the west, but from God. When He places someone in a position of authority, it is for a divine purpose, and God does not speak and then change His mind. He is not a man that He should lie, nor the son of man that He should repent.

    God revealed that He wants to use Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a vessel for the reformation of Nigeria, and that process is already underway. Despite the challenges, he is still the man God is using in this season. That’s why I believe, without doubt, that come 2027, Tinubu will be re-elected, not by accident, but by divine mandate, to complete the assignment God has given him. And when that mission is fulfilled, God will raise up another leader to continue the work. It is not about one man; it is about God’s agenda for Nigeria, and that plan will unfold exactly as He has ordained it.

    Should Church Leaders Should Take Active Roles In The Political Hemisphere of Nigeria? 

    Yes, like I’ve always said, everyone has a role to play. Prayer upholds a nation just as it upholds an individual. I strongly believe that one of the most powerful ways pastors and church leaders can influence Nigerian politics is through consistent and intentional prayer. We must lift Nigeria up before God — not just in private, but publicly and boldly. Even in America, you see the phrase “In God We Trust” on their currency. That’s not just symbolism, it’s a reminder that prayer and faith are foundational to national identity and strength. We need that same spirit here.

    But prayer alone is not enough. As church leaders, we shouldn’t shy away from politics. There’s nothing wrong with getting involved, in fact, it’s necessary. If we truly want to see positive change in Nigeria, we must not only pray for good leaders but also raise and support them. We need righteous people in positions of power — people who will govern with integrity, compassion, and a fear of God. That’s the only way we can steer this country in the right direction. Faith and governance should go hand in hand.

    What would be your advice to President Tinubu?

    I would advise President Tinubu to focus more on strengthening key sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and road infrastructure. In agriculture, we need serious investment in mechanized farming and support for local farmers to boost food production and reduce imports.

    On health and roads, our hospitals need urgent upgrades, and rural areas deserve better access to care. Good roads are also essential, they connect communities and drive the economy. If these areas are prioritized, Nigerians will begin to feel real, lasting impact.

  • Pastor Adeboye to youth: Focus, hard work, prayer are keys to greatness

    Pastor Adeboye to youth: Focus, hard work, prayer are keys to greatness

    General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has advised young people to remain focused, hardworking, diligent, and prayerful, describing these qualities as vital for achieving true greatness.

    He gave the charge during the RCCG’s monthly thanksgiving service held at The Throne of Grace headquarters in Ebute-Metta, Lagos, where he delivered a sermon titled “Exceedingly Great.”

    Pastor Adeboye also offered prayers for students at all levels — from secondary school pupils to university undergraduates, including candidates preparing for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examinations and those seeking admission both locally and internationally.

    He emphasised that attaining “exceedingly great” heights requires unwavering focus, consistent effort, and steadfast prayer.

    “In God’s plan, there is no impossibility, especially when you belong to Him by surrendering your life to Jesus. Once you’ve done that, your destiny is to be exceedingly great,” Adeboye said.

    Read Also: Adeboye urges Nigerians to keep praying amid challenges facing nation

    However, he cautioned that meeting the spiritual requirement is just the beginning. “You can’t afford to relax after that. Keep working hard and stay prayerful. Slacking off leads to disappointment and frustration because, even in heaven, there’s no room for laziness.”

    Highlighting the importance of having a clear vision early in life, Adeboye noted that while greatness has no age limit, it is best pursued with purpose and direction from youth. He illustrated his point with the biblical story of Jacob, who became exceedingly great by being focused, diligent, hardworking, and prayerful.

    Adeboye also reminded students that no level of spirituality can substitute for academic preparation. “You must study hard; knowing God alone won’t help you pass your exams without effort,” he said.

    Adding to the message, Pastor Dele Balogun, Special Assistant to the General Overseer (Admin) and Pastor in charge of Region One, encouraged the youths to put Adeboye’s advice into practice, reaffirming that diligence and focus are keys to becoming exceedingly great.

  • Canada experiences holy fire as Enenche leads Dunamis conference

    Canada experiences holy fire as Enenche leads Dunamis conference

    The spiritual atmosphere in Toronto was electrified as the much-anticipated Dunamis Canada Revival Fire Conference 2025 set the city ablaze with God’s power.

     Hosted by Pastor Paul Enenche and Dr. Mrs. Becky Enenche, founders of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, the two-day event drew thousands of worshippers from across Canada, the U.S., and beyond.

    Held at 272 Attwell Drive, Etobicoke, Ontario, the conference featured two impactful sessions each at 9:00am  and 5:30 pm. 

    Attendees encountered a divine move marked by miracles, prophetic utterances, heartfelt worship, and life-transforming teachings.

    With a spiritually charged atmosphere, lives were healed, souls were saved, and destinies were realigned.

    Read Also: Kudos for Enenche over sermon on Plateau, Benue killings

    Worship leaders including Debee, Prospa Ochimana, Jennifer Chambers, Jamie Hutchings, and Tomi Favoured brought down heaven with passionate praise and worship that resonated deeply with attendees.

    Enenche, known for his deep spiritual insight and prophetic ministry, delivered fiery messages focused on revival, holiness, and supernatural breakthrough. 

    His wife ministered with grace and prophetic clarity, leaving many in tears as they experienced personal encounters with God.

    Clips from the conference went viral with powerful moments of worship and deliverance circulating widely on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. 

    Testimonies of healing and divine visitation flooded comment sections, proving the global impact of the event.

    One viral video showed a spontaneous moment of worship that left the stage and audience on their knees—garnering thousands of shares within hours. The hashtag #DunamisCanadaRevivalFire trended throughout the two days.

    The Dunamis Canada Revival Fire Conference is part of a broader vision by Enenche to ignite revival across the nations. 

    The Canada edition follows previous crusades in the U.K. and Nigeria, as part of a divine mandate to set continents aflame with the gospel of Jesus Christ.

    Attendees left the venue spiritually charged, declaring that the fire of revival would not stop in Toronto but would spread throughout North America.

  • Wave of PDP defections to APC spotlights Fufeyin’s prophecy

    Wave of PDP defections to APC spotlights Fufeyin’s prophecy

    A wave of high-profile defections from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) reshaping the political landscape has drawn fresh attention to a prophecy nearly five years ago.

    On August 28, 2020, cleric Prophet Jeremiah Omoto Fufeyin, founder of Christ Mercyland Deliverance Ministry, prophesied a major shift in Nigeria’s political dynamics.

     In his televised message, the prophet foretold that a significant number of PDP members would abandon the party to join the APC — a prediction that, at the time, stirred widespread debate and skepticism.

    Fast forward to 2025, and Nigeria is witnessing what analysts describe as an “unprecedented realignment” within its political sphere. 

    In recent months, several senior PDP figures—including former Governors, lawmakers, and influential party stalwarts—have officially joined the APC, citing ideological disagreements, internal party crises, and strategic political positioning ahead of the next general elections.

    Read Also: PDP lose three more Reps to APC

     “This is not the first time religious leaders in Nigeria have offered political prophecies, but the accuracy of this particular prediction is striking,” said Dr. Hadiza Lawal, a political analyst at the Centre for Democratic Research.

    The defections have also sparked renewed debate about the role of prophecy in politics, a country where religion and governance often intertwine. While some view the current events as divinely orchestrated, others urge caution in attributing political developments solely to prophetic insight.

    Neither the PDP nor the APC has officially responded to the resurfacing prophecy but within political and religious circles, it has become a topic of growing interest.

    As the political season intensifies, many are watching to see whether further elements of Prophet Jeremiah’s 2020 vision will come to pass.

  • Fatoyinbo celebrates excellence at COZA’s Kingdom dinner and award dinner

    Fatoyinbo celebrates excellence at COZA’s Kingdom dinner and award dinner

    Founder of Commonwealth of Zion Assembly (COZA) Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo has celebrated excellence in the body of Christ at the recent dinner and award night of the church. 

    The atmosphere was a seamless fusion of honor, elegance and spiritual significance.

    From celebrating grace-filled achievements to recognizing the Kingdom giants who have laboured faithfully in God’s vineyard, every detail of the night reflected intentionality and spiritual sensitivity. 

    It was clear that this was more than a dinner — it was a statement: excellence is spiritual. Excellence is Kingdom.

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    The event showcased not only the glory of God but the heart of a visionary leader who understands the weight of honouring those who have carried mantles of grace.

    Guests were treated to an evening that stirred the spirit and the senses. The ambience, the presentation, the recognition moments — all spoke of order, honor, and Kingdom class. It was a testament to the truth that when God is in a thing, nothing is average.

    Beyond the glitz, the night reminded everyone of a vital truth: excellence is a language the Kingdom understands. And through events like these, Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo is teaching a generation how to speak it fluently.

  • Bema Music unveils gospel talent hunt to spotlight Nigeria’s next big stars

    Bema Music unveils gospel talent hunt to spotlight Nigeria’s next big stars

    A new gospel talent hunt, SOS- Symphony of Sounds, has been launched by a Christian record label, Bema Music Corporation, to discover and support Nigeria’s next generation of gospel music stars.

    The competition, which will climax in a grand finale on May 10, 2025, at Ahava Cafe in Lekki, Lagos, is aimed at identifying talented singers with a passion for gospel music and turning them into powerful voices of faith and inspiration.

    Speaking about the vision behind SOS, founder and Chief Executive officer (CEO) of Bema Music, Mr Chinedum Iwuoha, said the initiative goes beyond showcasing talent. “We are not just looking for voices, we are looking for vessels,” he said. “SOS is about discovering gifted individuals who carry a genuine calling, and walking alongside them as they blossom into ministers of impact.”

    Founded in 2008, Bema Music has built a reputation for blending creativity with purpose in the Christian music space. With SOS, the label hopes to close the gap between talent and opportunity for aspiring gospel artists across Nigeria.

    The talent hunt, since April 7th has ran through several stages of online auditions, leading up to the live finale in May. 

    Read Also: Liberian music star, Kzee Bigname explains brand of music, Gbema

    Winners will receive six months of full-service support from Bema Music, including branding, music production, promotion, and marketing.

    “This competition is a platform to turn raw talent into ministry,” Iwuoha said. “It’s a way of giving back, of helping young people see that their voices can make a difference, not just in the church, but in the world.”

    SOS is open to a wide range of music styles, from gospel hip-hop to classical, jazz, and even hard rock. According to the organizers, the goal is to ensure that “no voice is left unheard and no audience unreached.”

    Aside from talent discovery, the event promises mentorship, community building, and a celebration of faith and creativity. It is also expected to attract churches, music lovers, industry stakeholders, and cultural influencers.

    “This is the kind of positive cultural experience we need right now,” said gospel music enthusiast and Lekki-based youth pastor, Esther Nwankwo. “It’s exciting to see a faith-based platform investing in the next generation of music ministers.”

    Bema Music is calling on brands, media houses, and corporate sponsors to partner with them in making SOS a success. “This is a unique opportunity for sponsors to align with an initiative that offers both commercial value and deep social impact,” the label stated.

  • Methodist Church holds 34th Synod

    Methodist Church holds 34th Synod

    The 34th Synod of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Diocese of Remo, was held at Methodist Church Nigeria, Itun-Iwaye, Ilisan Remo Circuit, Ogun State.

    It was presided over by the Diocesan Bishop, Rt. Rev. J. M. Bamidele Ibikunle, with support from the Diocesan Lay President, Sir Akinola Soname, and Synod Secretary, Very Rev. Jacob Ayedona.

    The event brought together 272 delegates, including 58 clergy and 214 lay members, along with a host of dignitaries from the church and wider society.

    Notable attendees included Ogun State governor’s wife, Mrs Bamidele Abiodun and her delegation of special advisers, whose presence was widely lauded as a sign of the state government’s support for the church and its role in community development.

    Also in attendance were prominent church leaders like The Most Rev. Adegbemi Adewale, Archbishop of RIYE Archdiocese; Rt. Rev. S. A. Adegbite, Bishop of Ijebu Diocese; Rt. Rev. Charles Adeniyi, Bishop of Yewa Diocese; Rt. Rev. Amos Ogunrinde, Bishop of Remo Central; Rt Rev Babatunde Ogunbanwo, Bishop Ijebu Southwest (Anglican Communion) and representatives of the Anglican Communion, including the Lord Bishop of Remo Anglican Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. M. Olusina Fape.

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    The Synod’s theme: ‘He Will Rise Again’ (John 11:23), was inspired by a deep reflection on Nigeria’s current socio-economic challenges and served as a message of hope and spiritual resilience to citizens grappling with hardship.

    In its official communiqué, the Synod expressed appreciation for the efforts of the Federal Government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and Ogun State Government, led by Governor Dapo Abiodun, in national development, peace-building, education, health care and religious tolerance.

    Special commendation was given for the development of Ogun State International Cargo Airport and the restoration of security around the Sagamu interchange.

    In the spirit of nation-building, the Synod offered recommendations to both levels of government.

    These included calls for increased investment in education and health care, especially in rural and underserved areas; support for religious institutions in their social welfare efforts; and enhanced collaboration between government and faith-based organisations to promote justice, reconciliation and peace.

    The Synod also addressed a broad range of national issues:

    State of the Nation. While commending ongoing development, it urged the Federal Government to tackle economic hardship, inflation and poverty, especially at the grassroots.

    Democracy and Governance: The Synod raised concerns over democratic erosion in states like Rivers, calling for constitutional safeguards and collective action to restore democratic norms.

    National Security: It acknowledged improvements in security but emphasised the need for stronger measures against religiously motivated violence and farmer-herder conflicts.

    Digital Fraud: The Synod condemned the collapse of platforms like CBEX, urging stricter regulation of online trading and legal action against scammers.

    Health Awareness: Citizens were advised to prioritise their mental and physical health and reduce reliance on foreign medical care.

    Youth Unemployment: Highlighting the link between joblessness and social decay, the Synod pressed for urgent youth-centred employment policies.

    Business Climate: Government was urged to provide better infrastructure, utilities and financial support to retain businesses and stimulate economic growth.

    The Synod concluded with a strong call for renewed dedication to service, unity and community engagement by the church and the government. Church leaders reaffirmed their commitment to delivering impactful outreach through education, health care and social services. They emphasised that spiritual values such as love, peace and justice remain vital to addressing Nigeria’s pressing challenges.

    The 34th Synod ended with a unified resolve to deepen partnerships for national development and build a more just, equitable and prosperous society for all.

  • Return to the faith of old, Archbishop Bassey charges Christians

    Return to the faith of old, Archbishop Bassey charges Christians

    The Archbishop of Calabar and Spiritual Leader of God’s Heritage Global Mission, Archbishop Josef Bassey, has called on the body of Christ and church leaders to return to “the old paths where the saints of old walked.”

    Describing much of modern Christianity as a departure from the original faith handed down by the Apostles, the Archbishop decried what he termed “a gospel of leisure, pleasure, and comfort”, which he argued are foreign to the spirit, values, and doctrines of true Christianity.

     “The Christianity that costs nothing will ultimately produce nothing. We have traded the fellowship of His sufferings for the comforts of convenience. But Jesus said, ‘If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me,’” Archbishop Bassey stated at the weekend. 

    Citing Philippians 3:10, where Apostle Paul yearns for “the fellowship of His suffering,” and Luke 14:28, where Jesus warns disciples to “count the cost” before following, the Archbishop insisted that the faith was birthed in fire, forged in persecution, and advanced by sacrifice—not by indulgence.

    Read Also; Court orders EFCC to pay certification fee for documents in ex-aviation minister’s ‘trial

     “This generation must remember that we are not called to blend into the culture but to confront it. We are not entertainers; we are envoys. Until the Church reclaims her ancient foundations of prayer, consecration, holiness, and sacrificial living, she cannot expect to transform a nation lost in darkness,” he added.

    Bassey emphasised that once the Church rediscovers her identity, she will again shine as the “city set on a hill” and the moral conscience of the nation. He urged pastors and spiritual leaders to lead the return—to tear down altars of compromise and rebuild the platform of truth.

    “A revived Church is the only hope for a dying world. We must return—not to legalism, but to authenticity. Not to rituals, but to righteousness. Then, and only then, will the Church again become the nation’s compass,” he stated. 

  • MFM Festac Mega Axis empowers community with food, business grants, scholarships

    MFM Festac Mega Axis empowers community with food, business grants, scholarships

    By Ayoyinka Jegede

    It was a season of joy and celebration as the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM) Lagos Region 12, Festac Mega Axis Headquarters extended acts of love to Amuwo-Odofin community, including Muslim residents, through a major welfare initiative.

    As part of the programme, 326 beneficiaries, including non-members of the church, received 4 kilograms of rice each to help alleviate hunger and improve their overall well-being.

    In addition to the food distribution, the church also empowered 28 pastors’ wives, two widows, and two female ministers with a cash grant of N250,000 each, totaling N7 million. The support was aimed at helping recipients to either expand existing businesses or start new ventures, thereby fostering financial independence and stability.

    Mega Regional Overseer, Pastor Irabor Enojiasun alongside his wife Pastor (Mrs.) Modesola Enojiasun, Bro. Mark Tokula (Chairman, MRO Empowerment Committee), and Dr. (Mrs.) Funke Nwobu, an executive member of the committee, said the initiative was part of the church’s broader Explosive Evangelism Initiative (EEI) aimed at winning more souls for Christ through practical acts of kindness.

    They explained that the programme was designed to empower families, especially those led by women, and to ensure they could pursue personal and ministry-related projects without hindrance.

    Read Also: MFM Festac to lift ministers’ wives, widows, members at Easter

    In a similar move to support education, the church awarded N40,000 educational support grants each to 12 indigent students, enabling them to pursue their academic dreams without financial constraints.

    Presenting the various gifts, Pastor Temitope Akin Olawale, Director of Administration at MFM International Headquarters, reiterated that welfare and community development are central to the mission of MFM worldwide.

    According to him, the General Overseer of MFM, Dr. Daniel Kolawole Olukoya, has mandated all branches globally to invest in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programmes alongside their spiritual activities.

    Adding his voice, Engr. (Dr.) Valentine Oluwaseyi Buraimoh, Chairman of Amuwo-Odofin Local Government Area, lauded MFM Festac for its positive impacts on the local government, citing examples such as the repair of 7th Avenue Road in Festac, free medical outreaches, and free skills acquisition programs like the Free Bakery Initiative.