The Nation Newspaper

Category: Worship

  • The power of praise (2)

    The power of praise (2)

    Text: “…By the grace of God, I am what I am…” – 1 Corinthians 15:10

    Henry O. Adelegan

    As we journey through this sacred season of Lent, we are reminded of the immeasurable power of God’s grace in our lives. The grace of God is what qualifies the unqualified, lifts the downtrodden to places of honor, and turns ordinary lives into extraordinary testimonies. When grace steps in, limitations are removed, and destinies are rewritten. Moses, despite his troubled past (Exodus 2:11-15), became a great leader when grace found him (Isaiah 60:15). Esther, a simple Jewish girl, was chosen to be queen in a foreign land because of divine grace. Joseph, though betrayed by his own brothers and imprisoned unjustly, rose to become Egypt’s Prime Minister without any formal qualification in governance (Genesis 41:40-44).

    Grace is the divine advantage that changes lives. It breaks the cycle of suffering, strengthens the weak, restores broken relationships, and provides hope in times of despair. 1 Peter 5:10 reminds us, “The God of all grace, who has called us unto His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, shall make you perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you.”

    Without grace, human efforts amount to nothing. It is grace that makes the difference between struggle and success. Solomon, the wisest king, understood this when he declared in Ecclesiastes 9:11 that, “The race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, nor riches to men of understanding, nor favor to men of skill, but time and chance happen to them all.” This “time and chance” is the grace of God in action.

    When God’s grace is upon you, no obstacle can hinder your progress. His grace enables you to achieve what seems impossible and elevates you beyond human limitations. Psalm 127:1 reminds us, “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain; unless the Lord watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain.” This underscores the futility of human efforts without divine grace. It is grace that turns the rejected into the celebrated, transforms failures into testimonies, and brings restoration where there was loss. Jesus Himself declared in Matthew 6:33, “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.”When you prioritize God, His grace will manifest in your life, turning struggles into triumphs.

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    No matter what you are facing today—whether personal challenges, financial struggles, or national uncertainties—be encouraged. The grace of God will rewrite your story. It will lift you from obscurity to prominence and restore all that has been lost. Saul was a man with a dark past. He persecuted the early church with zeal until he encountered Jesus on the road to Damascus. That divine encounter changed his identity from Saul the persecutor to Paul the Apostle (Acts 9:1-19). Paul later declared in 1 Corinthians 15:10 that his success was not by his own merit but by the grace of God.

    In the same way, God’s grace can locate you, transform your life, and position you for greatness. I declare that the grace of God will speak for you in every area of your life. Nigeria will rise again. Our leaders will receive divine wisdom to govern rightly, and the nation’s past glory will be restored in the name of Jesus Christ.

    During this season of Lent, let us surrender ourselves fully to God’s grace. Seek His forgiveness, accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior, and commit to walking in His ways. Forget past failures, remain steadfast in your faith, and press forward toward God’s purpose for your life. As you do, His grace will change the course of your life, elevate you to new heights, and make you a living testimony of His goodness in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen

    Prayer: Oh Lord, let Your grace change the game of my life for Your glory, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

  • The Potency of the Word of God

    The Potency of the Word of God

    Text: “Where the word of a king is, there is power: and who may say unto him, What doest thou?” – Ecclesiastes 8:4

    By Henry O. Adelegan

    As we journey through this sacred season of Lent, we are reminded of the incredible power that words hold. Words shape destinies, transform lives, and influence the course of families and nations. The Bible teaches us that words, whether spoken in faith or in fear, have the ability to create spiritual altars that shape our reality (James 3:5-6).

    However, no word is more powerful than the Word of God. When declared in faith, God’s Word has the ability to override every negative pronouncement, break limitations, and bring about divine restoration. A striking example is found in the story of the Shunammite woman. Though she faced the devastating loss of her son, she refused to accept defeat. Instead, she clung to God’s promise that “it shall be well”—and indeed, her son was restored to life (2 Kings 4:18-31). Today, I declare by the power of God’s Word that whatever has been lost or broken in your life will be fully restored in the name of Jesus Christ . What you need to do is to put your trust in His promises, for His Word is unshakable and His power is limitless.

    Are you feeling overwhelmed by the challenges around you? Are you discouraged by the state of the nation—whether in the economy, security, or opportunities? Perhaps you are even considering leaving the country in search of a better future. Let me encourage you: the words you speak can shape your world. Instead of despair, choose to declare God’s promises over your life and over our nation. Speak life, not defeat. Confess faith, not fear. Believe that Nigeria will rise again, that our economy will be restored, and that peace will return. As children of God, we must resist joining the voices of hopelessness and instead stand on the power of His Word.

    King Solomon, a man of great wisdom and authority, understood the power of words. As a ruler, his decrees were final—no one could question them. He declared in Ecclesiastes 8:4, “Where the word of a king is, there is power.” If earthly kings have such authority, how much more the King of Kings? The Almighty God has the power to overturn human decrees, change impossible situations, and establish His will. Lamentations 3:37 reminds us, “Who is he who speaks and it comes to pass, when the Lord has not commanded it?”

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    Our God is the ultimate authority. He lifts up and brings down. He makes the poor rich and raises the humble to honor (1 Samuel 2:6-8). When He speaks, mountains move, valleys rise, and rough places are made smooth. His Word is final, and it never fails. God has given us the key to living in His power: In Joshua 1:8, Scripture says that,  “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.” – Joshua 1:8

    A believer without the Word of God is like a soldier without a weapon—defenseless against the battles of life. To experience divine restoration and breakthrough, we must make God’s Word our daily confession. Speak what God has said, not just what you see. Walk by faith, not by sight.

    During this season of Lent, I invite you to draw closer to Jesus. If you have not yet accepted Him as your Lord and Savior, this is the time to surrender. Trust in His power to transform your life, restore what has been lost, and lead you into His perfect plan. As you do, I declare that you will rise above every negative word spoken over you. No power of darkness will prevail against you, and you will testify to God’s faithfulness in Jesus’ name.

    •Prayer: Lord, let the power of Your Word work in my life. Restore all that has been lost and lead me in Your perfect will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

  • Forum lauds Pastor for apologising over Facebook video

    Forum lauds Pastor for apologising over Facebook video

    The Concerned Christian Youth Forum has lauded Apostle Festus Alilu for apologising to Pastor Korede Komaiya and the Master’s International Church Warri Delta State over a Facebook post.

    In a statement on Monday in Abuja, Convener of the forum, James Adama, confirmed the development, describing it as a positive step towards reconciliation.

    Apostle Alilu, in his letter of apology, expressed regret over a viral video he had posted on Facebook on 8 March 2025, in which he criticised Pastor Komaiya’s teachings.

    “I write to express my sincere and unreserved apologies for a viral video I posted on my Facebook page on the 8th day of March 2025 where I criticised your style of preaching.

    “I regret the offensive contents of the video and the negative effect on your reputation, congratulation and the entire body of Christ.

    “I have removed the video from the Facebook page and i have also posted an apology video on the same platform.

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    “I humbly request for your forgiveness and understanding so we can put it behind us and focus on our values of commitments in spreading the Gospel,” he wrote.

    The forum applauded the clergyman for the reconciliatory move and urge others to follow suit.

    “We believe that the Christian faith and its leaders should be respected and protected against defamation and cyberbullying.

    “Do not defame or tarnish the reputation of anyone while criticising their actions. Remember, you are only sharing your perception or opinion and this must be done within the confines of the law.

    “Criminal offence isn’t just against the victim but against the entire State. So do not come up with lame excuses that the victim is a Christian or Pastor and ought to have forgiven.

    “Let this apology serve as a reminder that differences of opinion do not justify hateful speech or malicious behavior,” the statement added.

  • Accolades for Suleman’s youth empowerment programme

    Accolades for Suleman’s youth empowerment programme

    Social media users have hailed the youth empowerment programme of Apostle Johnson Suleman’s Youth Empowerment. 

    The programme, aimed at equipping young people with skills, opportunities and resources for personal and professional development, has been widely praised for its transformative impact on countless youths across the nation.

    The latest event, in collaboration with various community leaders and organisations, benefitted hundreds of participants who engaged in workshops, mentorship sessions and career-building activities. 

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    Many expressed gratitude for the programme on social media, sharing testimonials and success stories from past beneficiaries.

    Suleman, the founder of Omega Fire Ministries, has been an advocate of youth empowerment, emphasizing the importance of investing in young people as a means to build a stronger and more prosperous society. 

    With the programme’s growing online presence, it is clear that the initiative continues to inspire and uplift young individuals, providing them with the tools needed to succeed in an ever-evolving world.

  • The power of praise (1)

    The power of praise (1)

    Text: Acts 16:25-26 ……Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God ……….. doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose..

    By Henry Adelegan

    As we journey through Lent—a 40-day season of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving that begins on Ash Wednesday and culminates at sundown on Holy Thursday  , we are invited to reflect deeply on our spiritual lives and our relationship with God. This period calls for introspection, repentance, and a renewed commitment to our faith.

    The story of Paul and Silas, as recounted in Acts 16:25-26, offers profound insights into the power of praise during trying times. Despite being unjustly imprisoned, they chose to pray and sing hymns to God. Their unwavering faith amidst adversity led to a miraculous earthquake that shook the prison’s foundations, opened all doors, and loosened everyone’s chains. This narrative underscores a pivotal truth: praise is a powerful spiritual practice that can lead to liberation and transformation. It serves as a gateway to restoration, enabling believers to rise above their circumstances and experience divine intervention.

    In our contemporary lives, this principle remains relevant. When faced with challenges—be it personal struggles, societal injustices, or global crises—shifting our focus from the problem to the Provider through praise can lead to unexpected breakthroughs. Such an attitude not only uplifts our spirits but also aligns us with a higher perspective, enabling us to navigate difficulties with grace and hope.

    Moreover, the act of praising amidst adversity serves as a testament to others. In the case of Paul and Silas, their fellow prisoners listened to their hymns, witnessing firsthand the power of unwavering faith. Our expressions of praise can similarly inspire and influence those around us, fostering a ripple effect of faith and resilience. 

    During Lent, while certain expressions of joy, such as the word “Alleluia,” are traditionally set aside to foster a spirit of penitence  , the essence of praise remains integral to our spiritual discipline. Praise, in this context, is not merely about outward expressions but about cultivating a heart posture that acknowledges God’s sovereignty and goodness, even in challenging times.

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    Beloved in Christ,  Praise is a command by God to every living being (Psalm 150:6). Praise is not focussing on happenings, praise is spotlighting God’s faithfulness and relying on the efficacy of the Scriptures. Praise is concentrating on the integrity of God and the insight received about His integrity. The Psalmist in Psalm 22:3 says that “God inhabits the praises of His people”. When God sees genuine praises, He brings heaven down and when heaven comes down, all natural powers, laws and restrictions are suspended. 

    St. Francis of Assisi exemplified this attitude by seeking to identify completely with God, offering the most complete praise possible through both actions and a deep, mystical connection with the Divine.  Incorporating praise into our Lenten journey aligns us with this tradition, preparing us for the promise of reclamation, restoration, and redemption that Easter heralds. It transforms our focus from our struggles to God’s enduring mercy and love. 

    As we continue through this sacred season, let us embrace praise as a pathway to spiritual renewal. By doing so, we open ourselves to the transformative power of God’s grace, leading us toward full restoration and a deeper, more intimate relationship with Him. Please note that whatever you are going through at such a time cannot withstand the praise. When you praise God, mindless of whatever you are passing through, there shall be divine intervention and your challenges will turn into testimonies in the name of Jesus Christ.

    Prayer: Lord, accept my sacrifice of praise and guide me toward spiritual renewal and awesome testimonies during this Lenten season in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

  • NCPC secretary emphasises prayer as essence of pilgrimage

    NCPC secretary emphasises prayer as essence of pilgrimage

    The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), Bishop Stephen Adegbite, has stressed that prayer is the real essence of pilgrimage.

    He made this assertion during the airlift of the 13th and last batch of intending Christian pilgrims to Israel and Jordan at the Pilgrims Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

    Represented by Barrister Sonny Ebiyaibo, the director of administration of NCPC, Adegbite urged the intending Christian pilgrims to pray fervently at the various holy sites.

    He stated that prayer was key to a successful pilgrimage, adding that the spiritual content of pilgrimage must be maintained at all times, emphasizing that pilgrimage is not for leisure.

    The NCPC boss enjoined the pilgrims to pray for those in authority in Nigeria and the well-being of the country and its citizens.

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    He also reminded them to see themselves as true representatives of Nigeria in the holy land, irrespective of their state of origin. “You are all ambassadors of Nigeria in the holy land,” he said.

    In his remarks,  the Board member representing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the Board of NCPC, Amb. Martin Adamu emphasized that the intending Christian pilgrims should use the pilgrimage to renew their faith in God and return spiritually fulfilled.

    While praising Adegite for his effective and visionary leadership, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Police Affairs, Dr Anuma Nlia, who was also an intending pilgrim, commended President Bola Tinubu for his overwhelming support for the NCPC, which has enabled the Commission to successfully airlift pilgrims from the first to the last batch.

    Among the intending Christian pilgrims was the Permanent Secretary, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Mrs. Daju Kachollom.

  • Excitement as son introduces Oyakhilome at Abuja prayer conference

    Excitement as son introduces Oyakhilome at Abuja prayer conference

    There was excitement on Friday night at the grand opening of the Upward and Forward healing conference in Abuja when Pastor Daysman introduced his father, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome. 

    The father and son moment was an heartwarming session that created admiration among Netizens. 

    They noted the special bond between the duo and described the moment as historic. 

    Social media has been flooded with reactions with many expressing joy and admiration for the father-son connection.

    @FaithFowosire said: “This is so incredible for real, I have always wished the day Pastor Daysman Oyakhilome will introduce his dad, this is so amazing, bad Belle people make una cry more…” 

    @DamsonAdeleke stated: “I’ve been seeing this video trending everywhere on X, what’s about this…? But I love Pastor Chris sha.”

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    The conference, which has drawn believers and faith leaders from across the world, is making headlines. 

     This father and son moment has further amplified the excitement. 

    As the UPWARD AND FORWARD HEALING CONFERENCE LIVE IN ABUJA continues, more moments of inspiration and spiritual upliftment are expected to unfold. 

    With the touching introduction by Oyakhilome’s son the conference has already become one of the most talked-about events in recent times.

  • ​FBC Garki denies alleged misappropriation under ex-Pastor Akanji

    ​FBC Garki denies alleged misappropriation under ex-Pastor Akanji

    The First Baptist Church, Garki, Abuja has refuted allegations of financial misappropriation under the watch of its former senior Pastor, Rev. Dr. Israel Adelani Akanji.

    Akanji, according to the church, helped it to grow in leaps and bounds, becoming unarguably one of the leading Churches in the Nigerian Baptist Convention.

    It was reacting to media reports that Akanji and some officials of the church were involved in alleged N620m fraud and forged its constitution. 

    The church in a statement stressed that there was never a time its money or property waa misappropriated or converted by anyone or group of people, noting that its financial activities were regularly audited.

    It said: “Our attention has been drawn to some misinformation, rumours and fabricated stories making the rounds in the social media about the financial situation of First Baptist Church, Garki, Abuja under the watch of our former senior Pastor, Rev Dr. Israel Adelani Akanji, FAR.

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    “We would have ignored the misinformation but in the interest of some well- meaning members of the public who desire to know the true position of the situation, we are using this forum to set the record straight.

    “That the Church condemns in strong terms the activities of those who are hell-bent on embarrassing and harassing our former Senior Pastor, Rev Dr Israel Adelani Akanji, FAR. We know that the One who called him into the ministry and who made him lead our Church for 22 years will vindicate him in Jesus’ Name.

    “That there was never a time when the Constitution and the Byelaw of our church (First Baptist Church, Garki, Abuja) duly filed and certified by the Corporate Affairs Commission, was forged by anyone or group of people for whatever reason.

    “There was never a time in the history of our Church when any money or property was misappropriated or converted by anyone or group of people. The account of our Church is intact, regularly audited and has been under the management of qualified financial personnel.

    “That under the watch of our former Senior Pastor, Rev Dr Israel Adelani Akanji, every transaction made by the Church adhered strictly to the due process and the policies of the Church.

    “That under the watch of our former Senior Pastor, Rev Dr Israel Adelani Akanji, the Church grew up from nowhere to become unarguably one of the leading Churches in the Nigerian Baptist Convention.

    “That everything done under the watch of the former Senior Pastor, Rev Dr Israel Adelani Akanji was endorsed by the whole church in accordance with the Practices and Policies of the Nigerian Baptist Convention.

    “That our former Senior Pastor, Rev Dr Israel Adelani Akanji is still enjoying the respect, honour and the support of the Church and the entire members to date because of his unprecedented contributions to the Church.

    “The church as represented by her Board of Trustees (BOT) has not lodged any complaints with the Nigeria Police. Any legal action against the Church and her leadership is sponsored by evil forces determined to malign, harass and embarrass the church and the former Senior Pastor.

    “We appreciate the love, concern and understanding of those who are sincerely disturbed and worried about the unfortunate narrative being spread about the Church. We know that First Baptist Church, Garki, Abuja is marching on and the gate of hell shall not prevail. In the fullness of time the church and the gospel of Christ shall prevail in Jesus Name.”

  • Evangelist Mike Bamiloye sparks debate on balancing marriage, ministry

    Evangelist Mike Bamiloye sparks debate on balancing marriage, ministry

    Renowned evangelist and founder of Mount Zion Faith Ministries, Mike Bamiloye, has ignited a thought-provoking conversation within the Christian community, particularly among those in ministry, by raising a key question: which should take priority, their wives or their ministerial calling?

    In a statement shared on his Instagram page, Bamiloye acknowledged the diverse perspectives among Christians, observing that while some prioritize their spouses, others place greater emphasis on their ministry work.

    His post has since sparked a nuanced discussion on maintaining balance between family life and the demands of ministry, with many offering varying interpretations and personal reflections.

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    Bamiloye’s inquiry encourages introspection on the delicate balance between personal and professional responsibilities, prompting Christians to reevaluate their commitments.

    “Which is more important to you?

    Your wife or your ministry?

    “To some Christians, the Wife is of more importance to them than the Ministry.

    To Some others, it is the Ministry that is of more importance to them than their wives.

    Some people will not be able to make comments because of their wives.

    But to you, which is more important to you, your wife the lord gave to you or your ministry the Lord committed into your hand?”, he wrote.

  • Latter-Day Saints Church to preserve pioneer baptism site In Nigeria

    Latter-Day Saints Church to preserve pioneer baptism site In Nigeria

    The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints has promised to preserve it’s pioneer baptism site in Nigeria located in Ikot Eyo community, Nsit Ubium local government area of Akwa Ibom State.

    The Church with headquarters in Salt Lake City in Utah, United States of America, had in the course of its missionary activities conducted its first baptism of converts in Nigeria in 1978 in a river in Ikot Eyo, Nsit Ubium.

    Its Director of Church History Department, Elder Kyle McKay and other General Authorities of the church visited the river to relive the spiritual significance of it’s first baptism site in the country.

    Elder McKay and his wife accompanied by Elder Victor Bassey and Elder Adeyinka Ojediran, who is the First Counselor in the Africa West Area Presidency, visited the site recently.

    The delegation from the church headquarters were received by the Ikot Eyo Stake President of the church, President William William, members of the church, community leaders including the clan head of Ubium, HRM Etebom Ukpong Udoewa JP.

    McKay said his visit to the church’s pioneer baptismal site in Nigeria was significant for the spiritual encouragement and growth of the church in Akwa Ibom state and Nigeria as a whole.

    McKay said: “We will continue to cooperate with the local tribes and the local authorities to preserve this place because it is a special place to us and to the people here.

    “We feel a special feeling here at this place and among you people and when I say these people I am talking about a group of members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and to many who are not.

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    “We may not be of the same church but we are of the same family and I believe that God smiles broadest when all of His children get together and have an experience like this together where we share love, where we share a vision and where we share Jesus Christ.

    “We have a monument here and I can say from experience and what I feel here today that surely the Lord is in this place. And this is not the first time the Lord is in this place.

    “He was in this place in the 1970s when the baptisms were performed here. He was in this place decades before then when people were writing the church and begging them to come and send missionaries. He has been in this place for centuries.

    “The reason why we make monuments like this and keep them is so that we will remember what happened here but most of all so that we will remember God Himself and Jesus Christ whom He sent.

    “We remember here with reverence and gratitude for what took place here but not just that. Above all we reverence here because God is in this place”.

    The clan head of Ubium, HRM Etebom Ukpong Udoewa JP appreciated the leadership of the church for visiting it’s first baptism site in the country.

    HRM Udoewa JP urged the church to restore the aesthetics of the river and make it a site for spiritual tourism.

    The event featured traditional displays of different types, music presentations, and the decoration of Elder McKay and his wife in a traditional attire.