The Nation Newspaper

Category: worship

  • Brace up for leadership, Achudume urges youths

    Brace up for leadership, Achudume urges youths

    The Lead Pastor and Founder of the Victory Life Bible Church International, Apostle Lawrence Achudume has blamed the state of the nation on bad leadership and empty promises by the political class. 

    The political class, he said, has succeeded in milking the nation dry. He called for attitudinal change across all strata of the  society while urging youths to rise to the occasion.

    According to Achudume, it is saddened that the problem confronting the over 200 million Nigerians is as a result of  the undoing of just mere one percent of the population who are the political gladiators feeding fat on the nations wealth.

    Apostle Achudume who went prayerful and philosophical observed: ” Nigeria, my beloved country, a  nation blessed by God. The wickedness of vain men will not stop you from becoming great in the comity  of nations as you were meant to be; your citizens will be great; we will not be a source of mockery because of less than 1% evil men and some mis-fit in government. Nigerians  will  rejoice and be at peace.” 

    He spoke against the backdrop of the 63rd independence anniversary specifically calling on the youths  to take their destinies in their own hands as the current crop of leaders have failed them, saying they should rather focus more on God.

    ” It is disheartening these days to note that our youths mostly rely on the social media which has succeeded in ruining the lives of majority of them. The youths should rather  focus more on God and take care of their future as no government can completely take them to the promised land”.

    While calling on the youths to be more determined and proactive to build a better future,  he reminded them that most past leaders such as General Yakubu Gowon took the mantle of leadership as youths 

    “The future is not tommorow, the future is now. Nigeria youths should not postpone their manifestation.  Many have management skills that can turn the nation’s fortune around”, he submitted.

    According to him, youths have what it takes to emerge as future leaders as they are Intelligent, and  resourcesful, but government need to create an enabling environment for them to actualize  their dreams and aspirations.

    Speaking further Apostle Achudiume posited that  in the last 63 years, the nations political journey has been laced with unmet  promises which ended 

     up in bad road network, infrastructural decay, economic downturn and hopelessness.

    Read Also: Achudume canvasses nation-building as Mbang is laid to rest

    ” The current  hardship being experienced across the length and breadth of the nation is another in the series of bad omen being packaged as political promises to hoodwinked the electorate and there  is the  need therefore for everyone to say no to these failed promises”.

    Apostle Achudume who expressed  the hope that the nation can still be great again however wants the entire citizenry to take their future into their own hands and stop leaning on false hopes and promises  as being handed to them by the political class.

    The man of God called on  the electorate to rise up to the occasion and work towards electing good leaders observing  that the electorate should no longer depend on leaders who make promises they can not  fulfill and embark on projects they can not complete.

    ” As the popular saying goes, a nation gets the type of leaders it deserves, it is high time the electorate begin to ask questions and also embark on soul searching to see to it that everyone is playing their part as expected ad there is the  needed for attitudinal change by all and sundry for the nation to again experience greatness, he concluded.

  • Newstead Makmond boss Chinedum Obue, wife welcome twins

    Newstead Makmond boss Chinedum Obue, wife welcome twins

    In a remarkable celebration of faith, Evangelist Dr. Chinedum Obue and his wife marked dedicated their long-awaited set of twins on Sunday September 17. The event, which took place in Enugu, drew well wishers from various corners and was a testament to the power of faith and divine favor.

    Obue, who serves as the Chairman of Newstead Makmond Company LTD, a reputable Real Estate and Construction Company headquartered in Enugu, shared their journey to parenthood.

    He spoke of how he had accepted the challenge of sponsoring a mega crusade in his church in October of 2022, a decision he believes opened numerous doors, including the cherished door of conception. “Sponsoring Kingdom mandates is a sure way to open doors,” he proclaimed.

    The dedication ceremony attracted distinguished figures including church leaders such as The Rt. Rev Christian Onyeka Onyia, Bishop, Anglican Diocese of Nike; the Rt. Rev Aloysius E. Agbo, Bishop, Anglican Diocese of Nsukka; The Rt. Rev Nedison Foreman, Bishop, Anglican Diocese of Jalingo and The Rt. Rev. Idris Ado Zubairu, Bishop, Anglican Diocese of Sokoto, among others. It was a gathering that transcended denominations, uniting anointed men of God from both Anglican denominations and beyond.

    Read Also: Atiku on fishing expedition, Tinubu tells US court

    In addition to the spiritual leaders, family, friends, royal dignitaries, and prominent individuals from various sectors attended the ceremony. Notable among them are Hon. Anthony Nwankwo, a House of Assembly member representing Awgu South Constituency; Hon. Livinus Nze Anike, Executive Chairman of Enugu East Local Government Area, and Hon. Chinedu Onyeagba, Executive Chairman of Oji River Local Government, to name a few.

    The Master of Ceremony, Nollywood veteran, Chief Imo Comedy, added an entertainment touch to the solemn occasion.

    Obue, a native of Nise in Awka South of Anambra State, also the founder and Chairman of Newstead Makmond Company, emphasised the company’s commitment to providing affordable housing and land opportunities within the South East and Abuja.

    He said: “Newstead Makmond is a Company built by God, we cannot afford to fail our clients and prospects”

    Throughout his journey, Obue consistently served as an evangelist, spreading the gospel of Christ across denominations and nations, accompanied by undeniable signs of God’s presence and power.

  • Buchi, Mike Abdul, others for Sound of Praise 2023

    Buchi, Mike Abdul, others for Sound of Praise 2023

    The second edition of Sound of Praise is set to take place tomorrow at Waterparks, Ikeja, Lagos.

    The worship concert powered by Apostolic Billionaires Club & Zion World Ministry, will showcase gospel ministers like Buchi, Mike Abdul, Joe Praise, Endy Paul, Blessings Ng, Monique, Fresh Mike and others.

    In a statement by AllBaze.com, the convener, Pastor Chinedu Ezenwa popularly known as Chibaba, urged Nigerians to join the Unusual Praise team and the anointed ministers for an unusual and spiritually uplifting time in God’s presence. 

    Read Also: Chioma Jesus, Akpororo, others for Sound of praise

     According to him: “Sound of praise is one programme that everyone is expected not  to miss. It’s going to be so great and impactful into the lives of individuals especially those that inspires to be great men and women in Christ. This gospel praise and worship concert is going to be a life transforming one.  A medium for youths to be that next generation for world recognition”. 

     The senior pastor/ founder of Zion world church, Pastor Jude Osobase will also be ministering in word.

    The convener said will be free bags of rice for the first 100 persons, 10 brand new phones and laptops to be won.

  • Christocentric anthem ‘I have life’ for release

    Christocentric anthem ‘I have life’ for release

    A new song ‘I Have Life’ aptly called a Christocentric gospel song is set for release.

    The song, which will be released September 29, has a resounding message of hope, redemption, and the life believers have in Christ, promises to touch hearts and souls.

    The anthem is the first single from the awaited album by Dr Flourish Peters and LOGIC Sound, which includes Noble G, a gifted musician whose passion for both music and faith shines through every note.

    This debut single beautifully encapsulates the essence of the life believers have in Christ, inviting listeners to embrace this message of what it means to be in Christ.

    Drawing from personal experiences and a deep knowing of the life they have which is in Christ Jesus, Dr. Flourish Peters and Noble G deliver a moving performance that will resonate with individuals from all walks of life.

    The song’s simple yet powerful lyrics are an expression of the knowledge the artists have of what the Gospel says about the life we have in Christ.

    Read Also: Afenifere hails tribunal ruling on Atiku, Obi petitions

    Set against a backdrop of soulful melodies, stirring harmonies and prominent declarations, “I Have Life” takes listeners on a spiritual journey of realization, Him-discovery and the limitless possibilities that come with the life we now have in Christ.

    The song’s chorus is a triumphant proclamation of the essence of Christ’s sacrifice and victory over death.

    The prophetic anthem comes at a time when the world needs the message of the Gospel, Christ’s death, burial and resurrection, more than ever.

    In a time of uncertainty, the song serves as a reminder that the life we carry is more than able to transform all life’s bumps and hurdles.

    Dr Flourish Peters put it this way: “I Have Life is not just a song it’s an experience”

  • Work for the masses, Bassey urges governments

    Work for the masses, Bassey urges governments

    A highly respected Christian leader in Cross River State,  Bishop Josef Bassey has called on governments at all levels to make the people their priority in all their decisions and actions.

    The Bishop made the call during a parley with reporters on the occasion of his birthday.

    Josef stated that the average  Nigerian today is bleeding to death while families are famishing with small and medium scale business strangled into extinction because successive governments served only the government itself and the elites. 

    This situation, he lamented, has  turned the people into slaves in their own land.

    He admonished all those in positions of authority to think more on how to make their systems and organisations work for and in the best interest of the people. 

    Read Also: Calvin Bassey sees red

    According to him :”We all must put our hearts into coming up with decisions, systems and policies that will free the people from the untold burden and hardship that living in the Nigerian state has placed on them.”

    Bassey commended Cross River Governor Prince Bassey Edet Otu for being discerning, empathetic and visionary by making the people the policy thrust and regulating conscience of his administration. 

    He said the free education policy of the government is a step in the right direction and has taken some loads off parents already. 

    He challenged other state governments to follow suit so that the people first agenda can become a national agenda.

  • Radio stations rejected my songs because I wasn’t popular – Akintunde

    Radio stations rejected my songs because I wasn’t popular – Akintunde

    Fast-rising gospel minister, Elijah Akintunde, more commonly called Olorun O So Be, has recalled his humble beginning, saying he faced rejection from a lot of music producers and marketers. 

    Akintunde, who has produced popular tracks like Olorun Ayo Babalola, noted that poverty was another challenge in his music career and so much that he could not afford to pay his band members and keep them to his team. 

    Speaking in an interview, the gospel talent said: “One, I can talk about rejections from reigning marketers based on the fact that I wasn’t a popular artist.  

    “Another one was poverty which disallowed me from recording my music. 

    And my songs were rejected in radio stations all in the name of being unknown. 

    “Another challenge was that I couldn’t maintain a stable band members because I couldn’t afford their payments and this affected my music pattern.” 

    “Looking at our society, I believe people are desperate to hijack other people’s project to make money fast and build popularity. Most of these artists are either too lazy to compose their own songs or not believing in themselves. 

    “Also in Nigeria, the law that discourages piracy is not so active, people take this advantage on others to rob them of their rights.

    “My music has created a lot of opportunities for me, getting me connected to a lot of prominent people in the society. 

    ” I have access to enter some important places with honour which couldn’t have been possible if not for the help of God on my music. I have a lot of international ministrations to the glory of God and more to come by His grace.” 

    Also speaking on one of his past albums which faced rejection, he recalled: “This is an album that I did and even organized launching, borrowed money to put things in place for the event, but on the day of the launching; none of my invitees honored the occasion. All preparations made for them were rendered wasteful. I took the same album to promoter and he rejected it; claiming it didn’t had hit track, same album was taken to radio station and I was told to pay N10,000 for it to be aired but he only played it for few seconds. That is why I decided to add the track to my new album because I know the message and inspiration it carries. 

    “The message in the album to the general public and the Christendom is to be grateful to God always, not minding your situations. To be hopeful and be focused in the presence of challenges and situations. It suggested prayer as the pillar of faith. 

    Read Also: Actress Bimpe Akintunde bounces back after damaged studio

    A track is titled MOTI GOKE in the album,

    It gives boldness to reaffirm your being lifted no matter what and by God’s mercy we will be what God has planned for our lives.

    “Most of my music addresses good conducts and encourages people that are hopeless. It teaches good morals and humanitarian principles, most especially among the youth. 

    I have songs that discourage bad leadership e.g ADEROPO.”

  • Cherubim and Seraphim (C & S): Ninety-eight years of existence

    Cherubim and Seraphim (C & S): Ninety-eight years of existence

    • By, Baba Aladura Israel Akinadewo*

    Prelate, Motailatu Church Cherubim and Seraphim Worldwide

    “And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehends it not” – John 1:5

    *Preamble*

    It is a thing of joy to note that the centenary of the founding of Cherubim and Seraphim is two years from now. Thus, marking the nine decades and eight years of the great movement’s existence is a preclude to what the world will witness in the year 2025.

    Having said that, this band, established solely by *Saint Moses Orimolade Tunolase (Ajagunmokadi)* and without any contradictions from historical perspectives, has gone through a whole of engagements from spiritual, biblical, evangelical, healing, homiletics, and international activities’ viewpoints.

    The words, *”Ipinle ti Jesu fi lele leyi, ti Baba Aladura nto, keda mase ro pe, o ye kuro nibe, o duro le Kristi apata”*, in one of the most popular songs in C and S, literally translated as *”The Foundation of truth laid by Jesus, which our Praying Father follows”, the world should not think that he has departed from it, it stands on the rock of Christ*, is uniquely embedded in the programming orders of this great church. 

    Many people that their forebears were in this movement together with our father, Saint Moses Orimolade Tunolase, would understand much better that their patriarchs and matriarchs were puritanical in all their activities. These founding leaders adhered very strictly to moral and religious principles.

    Thus, this band, established by God through our father, Moses Orimolade, is built on the solid rock of salvation, hence, many evildoers got born again and were converted into the band.

    I have been consistent in the use of the word *”Band”*, because that is the established path, which till today, the foundational churches still have *Cherub Band* and *Seraph Band*, aside from the numerous bands in those churches.

    In those days, it used to be interesting, during anniversaries, seeing these two foundational bands establishing healthy rivalry in working for God, through financial contributions, programmes, prayers, etc.

    It was indeed a sight to behold by the younger Cherubs and Seraphs of our time. Doubtless, the Band is established by God and prophetic orders, working to uproot the trees of the witches and wizards in those days, brought about the spread beyond Nigeria, the country of origin.

    This church is purely indigenous to Nigeria and Africa at large. It really broke the European pattern of everyone worshiping Almighty God in the same way as theirs. 

    The African dancing patterns were inspired into C and S worship modes that brought great joy into Christianity in Africa. God used this church to create this uniqueness.

    This multidimensional faith group, which now has several independently registered churches, is and will continue to be the pride of the continent of Africa. Many of these churches, aside from the use of English, still maintain their local language to conduct services.

    This alone has been one of the reasons why our local languages have not gone into extinction. Unfortunately, majority of our younger ones today unconsciously see their local languages as vernacular that belittles their new found positions, whilst believing that the conduct of church services in English language fortifies their modernisation. This is farther from the truth. I want to submit that the younger generations have a whole lot to learn from the elders that are still alive, for them to understand more, how apologetics in theological studies applies to their own background.

    Having said that, I’m proud to see so many of our younger leaders preaching the undiluted word of God, which was exactly what the founding fathers started. It is basically the primary reason why C & S came into being.

    Aside from what Moses Orimolade did, we that were privileged to have come from a prophetic background, always marvelled to see how the evil ones confessed openly after preaching and sermons by our forebears. They were simply:

    1. Prayers with biblical backing;

    2. Confession by the evildoers;

    3. Repentance;

    4. Conversion;

    5. Total adoption into the fold.

    Honestly, nothing has changed from those that had great backgrounds of the undiluted C and S strict parents.

    Consequently, our faith remains ever solid on the Rock of Christ. Again, the pattern of some believers in using any means to create division through holier-than-thou attitude to generalize  a band established by God Himself, is purely out of ignorance and their own background. The truth of the matter is that those that follow the teachings of the sole founder, are proudly Seraphs and Cherubs. May the Lord forgive us of our sins of ignorance, through Christ our Lord.

    This unique band is dexterous in:

    1. Articulated sermon

    2. Healing

    3. Prophetic utterances

    4. Charity 

    5. Spiritualism 

    6. Music

    7. Singing

    8. Dancing, and in those days, there would always be food for all, especially the children (common then was beans and coconut without including any oil). The little children were always happy to come to church.

    Aside that, we have our own paramilitary organ called “Omo Ogun Igbala – Army of Salavation; and our garments depict your hierarchical titles. From Aladura to Lady Leader and so on to the highest position for the women, are distinctively noted through their dressing modes

    Read Also: Leadership crisis rocks Ondo Cherubim & Seraphim Unification Church

     This equally applies to the male gender. Then, the praying staff from leaders to Rabbi, to Pastor, to Evangelist, to Prophet (this is not for everyone but as divinely ordered), to Apostles are also special in their own individual ways. Is it the full regalia, or the veil used by anointed men, especially, the 40 days of the Lenten season, as well as during confessional Psalms that are not spiritual, biblical and equally African? God indeed used our fathers to bring Himself closer to Africa, which the true Seraphs are proud of.

    In view of this, as the scripture stated in Romans 14:22 that “…….blessed is he that did not condemn himself in that thing which he has chosen”, let the Seraphs continue to serve God in truth and in spirit, continue in the undiluted word of God without condemnation, apply wisdom when relating with one another, and uphold the sanctity of salvation, then, God Himself will reward us all, through Christ our Lord. 

    Dr. Israel Akinadewo is also the President of the Organisation of African Instituted Churches (OAIC)*. Aside the theological knowledge and prophetic gifts, he is also an erudite scholar and currently a senior lecturer in forensic accounting, among others.

  • Dunsin Oyekan advises youths on spirituality

    Dunsin Oyekan advises youths on spirituality

    Renowned gospel minister Dunsin Oyekan has advised youths to be spiritual and draw closer to God. 

    In a interview with The Nation after a powerful ministration at the maiden edition of Arise Congress, a three-day youth convention hosted by the Nigerian Baptist Convention at the Baptist International Convention Centre, Lagos – Ibadan Express way, Lufuwape, Oyekan said:  ” The only safe place of balance, the only place of safety and sanity in the cruel world is in Jesus, take your relationship with God very personal and very serious, and I can tell you the sky isn’t even your limit, it is your starting point.

    “According to the theme of this programme, Arise, It is time for you to Arise. Until you arise, you can’t shine. Arise from where the enemy hooked you.”

    On gospel music, he said it must be done in a spiritual atmosphere with sincerity of heart. 

    According to him: “God is Spirit, God is not a man, and can never be a man, he only became a man to come to our level to show to us who he is in the Spirit, God is not a man, and those who must worship him must worship in Spirit and in truth.

    “The music ministry was never designed for entertainment, everything, worship was created for the pleasure of God and to worship God, you must be spiritual, full of prayer, full of the Word, take your secret place seriously.”

    Read Also: Dunsin Oyekan, Muyiwa Ademola pay tribute to Baba Olowere

    The gospel act condemned the act of making the church or worship centre look like a bar house with real impact. 

    ” What happens in many of our gatherings today, we allow them to get excited. They jump up, they dance all this kind of dances and there is no real transformation and that is what the lord says, as a music minister what you are doing is spiritual, what you are doing is very very spiritual.”

    The summit attracted youths ranging from ages 13-50years across various part of the country to worship God. 

  • Baba Aladura Bob-Manuel tasks Tinubu on insecurity, economy, others

    Baba Aladura Bob-Manuel tasks Tinubu on insecurity, economy, others

    Supreme Head and Prelate of the Eternal Sacred Order of the Cherubim and Seraphim, Mount Zion National Headquarters, His Most Eminence, Baba Aladura (Dr.) David Bob-Manuel has urged President Bola Tinubu to empower security architectures and agencies to tackle the rising insecurity in Nigeria.

    Baba Aladura gave the charge at a briefing to herald activities marking his 6th induction anniversary as the Prelate of ESCOS Church worldwide and enthronement as Moses Orimolade IX in Lagos.

    The revered Christian leader said insecurity in the country can be categorised into criminality, ethnic and religious conflicts, noting that all three can be addressed if the teeming youths are adequately engaged in gainful employment.

    “Once a larger percentage of the youths are gainfully employed and moved out of the poverty bracket, it will drastically reduce bandits’ cells and vulnerable citizens. Also, security must be kept out of politics and modern technologies deployed to fight criminals,” he stressed.

    Bob-Manuel also advised the Tinubu administration to build strong military and paramilitary institutions and increase funding to the police. 

    He also implored the Federal Government to urgently implement social safety net programme to protect the vulnerable population from the impact of higher fuel prices following the removal of subsidy on petroleum products.

    “The government should also create public awareness programs in educating the citizens on the reasons behind subsidy removal and the long-term benefits for a more efficient and transparent energy market,” he stated.

    On unemployment, Baba Aladura Bob-Manuel advised the Federal Government to review and reform labour market regulations to make it easier for businesses to thrive and provide job security for workers.

    Read Also: Adeola lauds Tinubu’s victory at tribunal, urges Atiku, Obi to support Renewed Hope

    “Supporting small and medium-sized enterprises through access to finance, training and infrastructure stimulates job creation and entrepreneurship to enhance productivity and reduce criminality to the barest minimum,” he added.

    While thanking God for allowing him to celebrate his 6th induction ceremony, Dr. Bob-Manuel said in the last six years, the Church has witnessed an upsurge in the development of cathedrals and physical structures, noting the drive for evangelism and winning souls for Christ which he said is the primary goal of the Church.

    Senior Apostle General and Secretary to the ESOCS Church worldwide, His Eminence, Elder Dr. Napo Emuchay, said the church has witnessed giant strides in several respects across all provinces worldwide since the Baba Aladura was enthroned in 2017.

    He said several programmes have been lined up to celebrate the induction, including several empowerment programmes, dinner party, spiritual upliftment and grand thanksgiving service at the Mount Zion National Headquarters Cathedral on Sunday, September 10, 2023.

  • Gwoza Christians seek teaching of CRK in Borno schools

    Gwoza Christians seek teaching of CRK in Borno schools

    Christian indigenes of Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State are asking for introduction of Christian Religious Knowledge (CRK) in schools across the State.

    The Christians articulated their advocacy during the Inaugural National Conference of Gwoza Elite Forum in Maiduguri, according to the communique on the conference.

    The communique said the conference resolved for the setting up of a delegation to visit  Governor and Commissioner of Education “and engage them to consider CRK to be taught in primary, secondary and tertiary institutions.”

    The conference also decided on a visit by Gwoza Christian leaders to the leadership of the Assembly to address the exclusion of CRK as a subject  in Borno schools.

    According to the communique, the Gwoza Elite Forum Conference noted that the issue of CRK being a subject of learning in Borno schools has lingered for a very long time despite several attempts by successive leaderships of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) to get the issue positively addressed.

    “As a follow up, the government should deploy qualified teachers to teach the subject,” the communique said.

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    Some other matters discussed at the conference of the Gwoza Elite Forum, which the communique said was attended by over a thousand Gwoza Christians, included a plea to Governor Babagana Zulum to consider Christians for political appointments.

    Similarly mentioning “poor participation of Christians in politics and community leadership positions, the communique urged Christians to develop interest in political affairs and participate accordingly.