Liars Don’t Last in Ministry – Oyedepo Warns Pastors on Truth and Integrity

The Presiding Bishop of the Living Faith Church Worldwide, widely known as Winners Chapel, Bishop David Oyedepo, has issued a firm warning to pastors and church leaders against the habit of lying in an attempt to grow or sustain their ministries. The cleric delivered this message during the third service held at the church’s international headquarters, Canaanland, located in Ota, Ogun State. The sermon took place on Sunday, marking the final day of the church’s 21-day fasting and prayer programme. According to Bishop Oyedepo, dishonesty has no place in genuine ministry work, stressing that ministers who rely on falsehood eventually lose relevance and credibility. He stated clearly that anyone who chooses to lie for personal image or public approval will not endure in ministry. Emphasising his stance, the bishop declared that he would never fabricate testimonies or falsely attribute actions to God simply to impress people. He noted that integrity before God must remain the foundation of any true calling, adding that God does not require exaggeration to prove His power. Bishop Oyedepo further highlighted the necessity of standing firmly on the truth of the Scriptures and ensuring that all glory is directed solely to God. He explained that unwavering commitment to biblical truth is what enables ministers to rise to admirable levels without compromising their faith or conscience. In addition, the church leader encouraged believers to keep their love for Jesus alive at all times. He explained that complete dependence on God provides strength and guarantees victory over the challenges of life, regardless of their severity. Sharing a personal experience, Bishop Oyedepo recounted how a close associate in Ile-Ife, who was afflicted with insanity, experienced restoration after Scripture was read to him. He presented this as a demonstration of the power of God’s Word when applied with faith. The bishop also reaffirmed his confidence in divine protection, boldly stating that no evil plan formed against him would succeed. He expressed assurance in God’s covering and faithfulness, maintaining that spiritual consistency remains the key to enduring success in ministry

Why I Chose to Return to School to Study Law – Emir Sanusi Explains

The 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has opened up on the reason behind his decision to return to the classroom to pursue a degree in law. Speaking with journalists on Friday shortly after attending his lectures, the Emir explained that studying law later in life is not unusual, noting that many individuals often choose the discipline after retirement or at a mature stage in their careers. According to him, law plays a central role in nearly every aspect of human existence and societal structure. “There is practically nothing anyone can do without the law,” he said. “The law determines how we use the road, how we manage our families, and how marriage is regulated. It governs contracts, land matters, property ownership, inheritance, and succession.” The Emir emphasized that law is not just an academic field but a foundational pillar for social order and stability. He explained that understanding legal principles is essential for maintaining balance within society. He further noted that the absence of law and order creates a dangerous environment where power is abused. “When law and order collapse, the strong simply do what they want, while the weak are left to endure the consequences. Law exists as a protective shield. It is the guardian that preserves decency and ensures a stable and organized society,” he stated. Reflecting on his academic journey, Emir Sanusi described the classroom as a familiar and comfortable environment for him. He shared that this was not his first return to undergraduate studies. “The classroom has always been my natural place,” he said. “I was explaining to the students that the first time I reached level 200 was in 1978. The second time was in 1992. Now, this is the third bachelor’s degree I am pursuing.” He concluded by revealing that studying law had long been a personal ambition. “Law is a course I have always wanted to study,” the Emir added.

UCL: Rosenior Explains Decision to Leave Out Cole Palmer in Narrow Pafos Victory

Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior has provided clarity on why attacking midfielder Cole Palmer did not feature in the matchday lineup for the club’s UEFA Champions League encounter against Pafos. The Blues hosted the European tie at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night, where they secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory. The decisive moment came late in the game when Moises Caicedo rose to meet a header that ultimately separated both sides. Following the match, attention quickly turned to Palmer’s absence, as the midfielder has been an important figure for Chelsea in recent fixtures. Addressing the situation, Rosenior explained that the decision was based on a minor physical concern, rather than a tactical omission. According to the Chelsea manager, Palmer experienced tightness in his thigh prior to the match. As a precautionary measure, the technical staff opted not to include him in the squad to avoid any risk of aggravating the issue. Rosenior emphasized that the situation was not considered serious and suggested that the player was close to being available. He further reassured supporters that Palmer’s condition is being closely monitored by the club’s medical team. “Cole felt a little bit of tightness in his thigh,” Rosenior said.“He just misses out, but he should be absolutely fine for Sunday.” The coach’s comments indicate confidence that Palmer will return in time for Chelsea’s upcoming Premier League clash against Crystal Palace, easing concerns about a prolonged absence. With the victory over Pafos, Chelsea have now accumulated 13 points, placing them eighth on the table. This position currently represents the final automatic qualification spot for progression into the Champions League round of 16, keeping the club firmly in contention as the group stage unfolds.

Trump Links Greenland Takeover Plan to Nobel Peace Prize Snub

United States President Donald Trump has linked his long-standing interest in taking control of Greenland to his failure to secure the Nobel Peace Prize, an award he has openly desired for years. In an unusual communication sent to Norway’s Prime Minister, Jonas Gahr Støre, Trump suggested that the Nobel Committee’s decision not to honor him had influenced how he now approaches global peace and U.S. interests. According to Trump, the absence of the prize has removed what he described as a moral obligation to focus exclusively on peaceful considerations in international affairs. The message, first reported by PBS and later confirmed by an official within the Norwegian prime minister’s office, revealed Trump’s frustration with the Nobel Peace Prize process. In the note, Trump argued that his role in stopping multiple conflicts should have earned him the award. “Given that your country chose not to award me the Nobel Peace Prize for stopping eight wars, I no longer feel compelled to think solely in terms of peace,” Trump wrote. He added that while peace would remain important, he now felt freer to prioritize what he believed was best for the United States of America. Prime Minister Støre explained that Trump’s message was sent in response to a text jointly issued by himself and Finnish President Alexander Stubb. In that message, the Nordic leaders expressed strong opposition to Trump’s proposed tariff increases targeting Norway, Finland, and several other nations. Støre emphasized that he made it clear to Trump that the Nobel Peace Prize is decided by an independent committee and not by the Norwegian government. He stated that this distinction is widely understood and has been repeatedly communicated to past world leaders. Trump’s comments arrived amid rising tensions between the United States and its European allies. He had recently threatened to introduce an extra 10 percent tariff on imports from multiple European countries. These threats followed resistance to his plan to acquire Greenland, which is an autonomous territory under Denmark, a fellow member of NATO. The proposed move has unsettled NATO members, as the alliance is founded on mutual defense and cooperation. Concerns have intensified over the possibility that one member state could exert pressure or force against another, undermining the alliance’s core principles. In his message, Trump questioned Denmark’s historical claim to Greenland, arguing that the country lacks the capability to defend the territory from global powers such as Russia or China. He challenged the legitimacy of Denmark’s ownership, suggesting that historical landings alone did not justify sovereignty. Trump also asserted that the United States has contributed more to NATO than any other nation since the alliance was formed. He stated that NATO, in his view, should now act in America’s interest. According to Trump, global security would remain uncertain unless the United States achieved what he described as complete and total control of Greenland. While the United States has served as a central pillar of European and transatlantic security for decades and has spent more on defense than any other NATO member, other allied nations have also paid significant costs. Denmark, for example, lost 43 soldiers during combat operations in Afghanistan following the 2001 U.S.-led invasion.

Lagos Welcomes Newly Installed White Cap Chiefs in Historic Ceremony

In a significant cultural event in Lagos, the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, officially installed and capped six distinguished individuals as new White Cap Chiefs of the state. This traditional ceremony, steeped in centuries-old rites, underscores the importance of indigenous leadership and preservation of cultural heritage in Nigeria’s most populous city. The investiture took place at the royal palace in the Lagos Island district, where the monarch presided over the sacred proceedings. A large gathering of traditional rulers, respected chiefs, cultural custodians, and local residents witnessed the elevation of these community leaders into the revered White Cap Chieftaincy Institution. Distinguished Chiefs Installed The newly elevated chiefs included: Each of these leaders has longstanding ties to community development and cultural advocacy, reflecting the deep roots of the White Cap tradition in local governance and social cohesion. Traditional Rites and Procession According to an official statement acquired on Monday, the ceremony included a series of sacred rituals that marked the transition of these figures into their new positions. Following the completion of the traditional rites, members of the Ògbóni fraternity led a solemn procession from Isale Eko to the palace of the Oba of Lagos. The newly installed chiefs joined this dignified march through historic quarters, symbolizing unity and continuity. Upon reaching the palace, the chiefs rendered homage to the Oba and were blessed with traditional charms and prayers. Oba Akiolu performed the blessing using sacred items such as water, kolanut, and dry gin — elements deeply symbolic in Yoruba tradition. In his charge to the new chiefs, the monarch urged them to remain humble in service, uphold the rich customs of Lagos, and safeguard the unity that binds the state’s diverse communities. Escort to Palaces and Broader Attendance Once the palace rituals concluded, the Ògbóni procession, flanked by other White Cap chiefs and led by High Chief Opeluwa Onido, escorted the newly installed leaders to their respective palaces across Isale Eko. This part of the ceremony reinforced communal respect and affirmed each chief’s role within the intricate cultural tapestry of Lagos Island. The event drew notable attendance from key figures within the Lagos traditional and civic landscape. Among those present were: Their presence reflected the broad significance of the occasion, uniting political, cultural, and community leadership in recognition of these new custodians of tradition.

Nigerian Government Opens Portal for Common Entrance Applications into Federal Technical Colleges

The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially activated the application portal for the National Common Entrance Examination (NCEE), which serves as the gateway for admission into Federal Technical Colleges across the country. This development reinforces the government’s ongoing commitment to free technical and vocational education nationwide. The announcement was disclosed in an official statement released on Monday in Abuja by Folasade Boriowo, the Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education. According to the statement, the decision to open the portal followed the formal approval of the initiative by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, as part of broader education reforms targeted at skills development and youth empowerment. Dr. Alausa confirmed that registration for the National Common Entrance Examination will begin on January 26 and end on May 24, giving prospective candidates ample time to complete the application process. He further stated that the examination will be conducted nationwide on June 6, ensuring equal access for candidates across all regions of the country. He explained that the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s strategy to widen access to quality technical and vocational education, with a focus on equipping young Nigerians with practical, employable, and industry-relevant skills. The goal, according to the minister, is to prepare students for self-reliance, workforce readiness, and long-term productivity. Prospective applicants were advised to complete their registration exclusively through the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB) online portal, accessible via the official NABTEB student platform. This centralized process ensures transparency, accuracy, and efficient management of applications nationwide. The minister emphasized that possession of a valid National Identification Number (NIN) is mandatory for all applicants. He noted that the NIN requirement remains a non-negotiable prerequisite for successful registration and validation of candidate records. Dr. Alausa reiterated that technical education in all Federal Technical Colleges is fully funded by the Federal Government upon admission. This policy underscores the government’s dedication to human capital development, youth empowerment, and the enhancement of national productivity through skills-based education. He further stated that candidates between the ages of 13 and 20 years are eligible to apply, and urged parents, guardians, and prospective students to strictly adhere to all stipulated application guidelines to avoid disqualification. The minister concluded by reaffirming the ministry’s sustained focus on expanding access to free, high-quality technical education, empowering young people with relevant vocational skills, promoting self-reliance, and contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic growth and sustainable development.

Nigerian Government Did Not Approve Gold Refinery in Lagos – Solid Minerals Ministry Clarifies

The Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development has rejected recent claims by the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) alleging that the Federal Government intends to locate a gold refinery in Lagos State. The ministry described the allegation as inaccurate and misleading, clarifying that no such decision has been taken or announced by the Federal Government. Earlier, the NEF, through a statement signed by its spokesperson, Professor Abubakar Jiddere, had argued that positioning a gold refinery in Lagos would contradict the federal character principle. The group suggested that such a move would be unfair in the distribution of national resources and infrastructure. However, responding to the claim in a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday, the Special Assistant on Media to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, Mr. Segun Tomori, firmly denied the assertion. He emphasized that the minister never made any declaration indicating that the Federal Government planned to establish or owned a gold refinery in Lagos or in any other part of the country. According to Tomori, there has been no official government announcement approving or siting a federally owned gold refinery anywhere in Nigeria. He stressed that the claims attributed to the minister were false and did not reflect the ministry’s position. He further clarified that the gold refinery being referenced is not a government project. Instead, it is a completely private initiative undertaken by Kian Smith, a privately owned mining company. Tomori explained that the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development does not possess the authority to decide where private investors should locate their businesses. Tomori stated that Dr. Dele Alake was explicit, precise, and unambiguous when he spoke about the planned inauguration of the refinery. During that announcement, the minister made it clear that several gold refineries are being developed across different parts of the country, all of which are privately owned by various companies. He explained that the Lagos-based refinery is a private venture by Kian Smith, established to strengthen Nigeria’s local gold sector by adopting modern and innovative processing techniques. The refinery is aimed at supporting domestic gold production and improving industry standards through advanced operations. Tomori also pointed out that private investors independently determine where to site their projects, guided by operational efficiency, logistics, infrastructure availability, and market factors. He noted that the Federal Government does not compel private firms to establish facilities in any specific location. In addition, the ministry praised the commitment, resilience, and leadership of the company’s founder and Managing Director, Ms. Nere Emiko. According to Tomori, the successful completion of the refinery followed several years of persistence, strategic planning, and entrepreneurial effort. He explained that the refinery aligns with the Federal Government’s value-addition policy within the solid minerals sector. This policy is designed to discourage the export of unprocessed minerals and promote local refining, processing, and manufacturing within Nigeria. Tomori noted that the implementation of this policy has already encouraged the development of multiple mineral processing facilities across the country. These projects have attracted substantial foreign investment and contributed to job creation for thousands of Nigerians. He cited several existing projects as examples, including a $600 million lithium processing plant in Nasarawa State, a $400 million rare earth minerals processing facility also located in Nasarawa, and the $200 million ASBA lithium plant in Abuja. Furthermore, Tomori stated that consistent policy reforms introduced by the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development over the past two years have significantly improved the operating environment for private sector involvement in the mining industry. According to him, these reforms have played a key role in boosting investor confidence. He added that projects such as the Lagos gold refinery illustrate the tangible outcomes of these reforms and demonstrate the growing participation of private investors in Nigeria’s solid minerals value chain. Tomori reaffirmed that the ministry remains committed to encouraging mining companies to establish processing and manufacturing facilities across all parts of the country, in line with national economic objectives. He concluded by urging the Northern Elders Forum to reconsider its stance and support the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu toward building a more resilient, self-reliant economy that prioritizes the collective interests of Nigerians.

Anglican Members Block Bishop Erifeta From Resuming Duties in Delta Diocese

Members of the Anglican Communion in Sapele, Delta State, on Sunday openly opposed the attempt by Bishop Erifeta to resume his role as the Substantive Bishop of the Diocese. The resistance was carried out by congregants of the Cathedral Church of Nigeria, located along Boyo Road, where the cleric was expected to officially return to duty. The situation escalated when worshippers disrupted the ongoing Sunday service upon learning of the Bishop’s arrival. A large number of the protesters were women, many of whom displayed placards bearing strong messages rejecting his return. Some of the inscriptions read, “No to misuse of church funds,” “We reject Erifeta’s return,” “End the stagnation of Sapele Diocese,” “Erifeta should leave,” and “Primate, repost Erifeta elsewhere,” while protest songs were repeatedly chanted. Bishop Erifeta arrived at the cathedral with members of his entourage and was accompanied by security operatives. However, the gathering of church members physically blocked his movement, making it clear that they would not accept his reinstatement as their Bishop. The congregants maintained their stance throughout the encounter, insisting that his return was unacceptable. According to several church members, the development followed an alleged communication issued by the Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, which reportedly informed the Diocese about plans for Bishop Erifeta to resume duties in Sapele sometime last month. They expressed shock over the directive, noting that it came despite the Bishop’s earlier removal from office over allegations they described as serious. Speaking separately, Evangelist Akuroma Otuike, a former People’s Warden of All Saints’ Church in Sapele, alongside Rev. Gabriel Enudje and Pastor Freeborn Ejowovwo of Irhodo Anglican Church, Jesse, stated that members across the Diocese were united in opposing what they termed an imposed leadership. The clerics and lay leaders explained that the Diocese experienced major challenges during Bishop Erifeta’s previous administration. They claimed that progress only returned after his exit, through the intervention of what they referred to as the Rescue Group of Churches, which they credited with restoring stability and growth. They further stated that the Diocese has recently recorded remarkable improvements, including consistent payment of salaries and allowances to priests, pastors, and other church employees. Promotions, they added, have been conducted promptly and based strictly on merit, unlike in previous years. Evangelist Otuike encouraged interested individuals to visit the cathedral and other churches under the Rescue Group to personally assess the level of infrastructural progress. He contrasted the current state of the facilities with what he described as years of neglect during Bishop Erifeta’s earlier tenure. Rev. Enudje also alleged that the cathedral was previously in poor condition, citing damaged roofing and incomplete flooring as examples. He noted that improvements such as paved floors, walkways, and landscaped surroundings were executed only after the Bishop’s departure. The speakers jointly appealed to the Primate of the Anglican Church to consider redeploying Bishop Erifeta to another Diocese in order to preserve peace and unity. They cautioned that any attempt to enforce his return could heighten tensions within the Diocese. They also called on the Delta State Government and well-meaning members of the public to step in and help prevent a breakdown of order within the church community. Eventually, Bishop Erifeta, along with his delegation and security personnel, departed the cathedral without resuming duties.

Why FG Is Not Paying Allocations Directly to Local Governments – Abia ALGON Explains

The Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Abia State chapter, Chinedu Ekeke, has clarified the reasons financial allocations from the Federation Account are not paid directly to local government councils but are instead routed through the Joint Account Allocation Committee (JAAC). Ekeke explained that the decline in direct financial inflows to local councils is linked to the Federal Government’s ongoing deliberation on how to implement the Supreme Court judgement granting financial autonomy to local government areas across Nigeria. He made this clarification on Friday at the Abia State Government House in Umuahia, while responding to allegations from an opposition party member who accused Governor Alex Otti of diverting funds intended for rural development. Speaking on behalf of other local government chairmen in Abia State, Ekeke dismissed claims that councils in the state were being deprived of funds needed to execute projects at the grassroots level. According to him, allocations from the Federation Account are still paid into the JAAC system, which remains the operational structure for disbursing funds to local governments. He noted that the Supreme Court ruling on local government financial autonomy has not yet been fully implemented, as the Federal Government is still reviewing the best approach to comply with the judgement without disrupting existing fiscal structures. “Regarding the Supreme Court judgement, local governments receive funding through the JAAC because allocations are paid into the JAAC account. The funds do not come directly to the local governments,” Ekeke stated. He further explained that the Federal Government appears to be examining mechanisms to properly address the judgement before making structural changes to how allocations are distributed nationwide. Ekeke also emphasized that Abia local government councils are not being starved of funds by the state government, adding that the current process aligns with the existing framework used across many states in the country.

BUK Dismisses 60 Students Over Alleged Examination Malpractice

Bayero University, Kano (BUK), has officially dismissed sixty students from the institution following confirmed cases of examination malpractice across various academic departments. The decision was reached during the university Senate’s 43rd statutory meeting, which took place on January 7, 2026. At the meeting, the Senate carefully reviewed reports, findings, and recommendations submitted by appropriate academic committees and disciplinary panels set up to investigate the allegations. According to information released by the university, the affected students were found guilty of engaging in acts that violated established examination rules and academic integrity standards. These actions were deemed serious enough to warrant dismissal in line with the institution’s regulations. The development was made public through an official statement shared on Bayero University, Kano’s verified Facebook media platform on Friday. The announcement emphasized that due process was followed before the final decision was taken. In the statement, the university noted that after a thorough evaluation of each case, the Senate approved the dismissal of all sixty students based on existing examination laws governing the institution. “After a comprehensive review of the reported cases, the Senate approved the dismissal of the students in strict compliance with the university’s examination regulations,” the statement explained. BUK further clarified that the disciplinary action was executed in accordance with the provisions outlined in its General Examinations and Academic Regulations (GEAR). For students enrolled in postgraduate programmes, the decisions were also guided by the General Regulations Governing Postgraduate Studies (GRGPS), where applicable. The university reiterated its commitment to maintaining academic standards and upholding the principles of fairness, integrity, and discipline within the academic environment. It stressed that examination malpractice undermines the credibility of academic qualifications and will not be tolerated under any circumstance.

Demolition: Rhodes-Vivour Says Nearly 80% of Lagos Residents Live Below the Poverty Line

A prominent member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Lagos State, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, has stated that close to 80 percent of Lagos residents are living in poverty, attributing the situation to what he described as development policies that exclude the majority of the population. Rhodes-Vivour made this claim during a live interview on ARISE News Channel, where he reacted to the recent demolition of residential buildings at Jakande Estate, Ilasan, carried out by the Lagos State Government. He strongly criticised the exercise, describing it as illegal, harsh on the poor, and symbolic of a development approach that fails to consider the welfare of vulnerable citizens. The former Labour Party governorship candidate in the 2023 Lagos election explained that his conclusions were based on personal observations at the demolition site. According to him, operatives of a state-backed task force allegedly used force and ignored lawful procedures while executing the demolition. He recounted witnessing acts of brutality during the operation, claiming that residents were physically assaulted in his presence. Rhodes-Vivour alleged that a man was beaten into a coma and that he himself was threatened by task force officials while they continued to assault people around him. He further accused the authorities of detaining an engineer identified as Umaru for three days, during which he was allegedly abused. He also claimed that tear gas was fired at him while he was at the scene. Describing the incident as a reflection of governance without accountability, Rhodes-Vivour argued that a government that disregards court orders and legal restraints poses a serious threat to citizens’ rights. He maintained that the demolition exercise showed a troubling lack of respect for due process and the rule of law. Although the Lagos State Government has promised compensation for those affected, Rhodes-Vivour dismissed the proposed ₦11.2 million compensation as grossly insufficient. He argued that such an amount is unrealistic given current property prices in the area, stating that it cannot secure even a modest two- or three-bedroom apartment within Jakande Estate or its surroundings. He also accused the government of misusing the Land Use Act, particularly Section 28, which permits land acquisition for overriding public interest. According to him, the law is being applied to dispossess long-standing residents in favour of private developers rather than for genuine public benefit. Rhodes-Vivour warned that the demolition would worsen homelessness in Lagos, especially among young people, and further deepen the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. He stressed that development efforts in the state consistently marginalise low-income earners. He noted that many of the displaced residents had lived in Jakande Estate for over twenty years and possessed legitimate ownership documents. He questioned the fairness of destroying their homes, subjecting them to violence, and offering compensation that does not reflect current economic realities. While clarifying that he supports urban development, Rhodes-Vivour insisted that growth must be fair, humane, and inclusive. He emphasised that development should not come at the expense of the poor or result in increased inequality. Highlighting the income disparity in Lagos, he pointed out that to comfortably afford rent valued at ₦11.2 million, an individual would need to earn close to ₦2 million monthly—a figure far beyond the reach of most residents. He concluded by warning that development without justice, equity, and inclusion would continue to alienate the majority of Lagosians and worsen social inequality across the state.

Venezuela’s Machado Gives Trump Her Nobel Peace Prize Medal in Bid for Greater Goal

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado recently made an unprecedented political gesture by presenting her Nobel Peace Prize medal to former U.S. President Donald Trump, symbolically marking what she describes as progress toward democratic change in her nation. During a high‑profile meeting at the White House on January 15, 2026, Machado placed the prestigious medal — won for her efforts to restore democracy in Venezuela — into Trump’s hands. The act was meant to recognize what she sees as his contribution to advancing freedom and opposing authoritarian rule. Machado made clear that giving up the physical medal holds deep significance. To her, the Nobel Peace Prize represents both a personal honor and a symbol of her country’s broader struggle against the regime of Nicolás Maduro. Giving the medal away, she believes, may help rally international support for democratic progress. Speaking to reporters after her meeting with Trump, Machado framed the transfer as an act of historic symbolism. She invoked an analogy from Venezuelan and U.S. history, referencing how a French general presented a medal bearing George Washington’s image to independence leader Simón Bolívar two centuries ago — an emblem of solidarity between peoples fighting for liberty. Despite Machado’s intentions, Norwegian authorities clarified that the Nobel Peace Prize award itself cannot be formally transferred, even if the physical medal changes hands. According to the rules of the Nobel Foundation, once the prize is granted, it remains tied to the individual laureate and cannot be reassigned. The gesture also reflected Machado’s hope that the U.S. will play a more active role in supporting a peaceful transition in Venezuela. She has long campaigned for free and fair elections and a complete shift away from authoritarian governance. The U.S. response so far has been cautious, with some American officials expressing support for democratic change but offering few specifics about timing or plans. At the White House meeting, Trump acknowledged Machado’s gesture on his social media platform, describing it as a “wonderful sign of mutual respect.” Nevertheless, he also signaled uncertainty about endorsing her as a future Venezuelan leader, citing questions about her domestic support base. Machado’s visit energized Venezuelan expatriates and democratic advocates on Capitol Hill, where she met with senators and received vocal support. Many of her supporters view the transfer of the medal as a bold statement of commitment to Venezuela’s path toward freedom and human rights. This extraordinary political move underlines a broader debate about international influence, symbolic diplomacy, and the ongoing struggle for democratic legitimacy in Venezuela. Whether the gesture will yield concrete progress in U.S. backing for democratic reforms remains to be seen.

Rhapsody of Realities January 15th, 2026, THE GOSPEL IS REAL

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty (2 Peter 1:16). The Gospel of Jesus Christ is not a fable or fairy tale; it’s real. The Lord Jesus truly came. He truly died, was buried, rose again, and ascended into Heaven. These aren’t symbolic acts; they’re historical and spiritual truths with eternal significance. Many in the world think Christianity is just another religion or a moral philosophy, but they’re critically wrong. Christianity is the life of God manifested in human flesh. We serve and preach a living Christ, One who can be known, experienced, and proven. The Holy Spirit was sent to help us demonstrate the reality of the Gospel. He confirms the Word, the Gospel we preach, with signs, miracles and wonders. 2 Timothy 1:9-10 tells us that through the Gospel Christ brought life and immortality to light: “Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began, But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.” Never allow doubt or unbelief to dilute your faith. The proof of our message is the supernatural life we live. Every time you heal the sick, cast out devils, or lead someone to Christ, you’re proving that the Lord Jesus is alive and the Gospel is the power of God unto salvation to everyone who believes (Romans 1:16). The world doesn’t need another argument about religion; they need proof. And you’re the proof and proof-producer that the Gospel is real, the Lord Jesus is real, and that eternal life is available today only in Him and through Him. Hallelujah! PRAYERBlessed Father, how glorious it is to be a witness of the resurrected Christ; my life is proof that Jesus is alive. Through me, the world experiences the reality of the Gospel. Thank you for causing me to walk in the supernatural, manifesting the glory and power of the Gospel as I lead many to righteousness, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDYMark 16:20 KJVAnd they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen. Romans 1:16 KJVFor I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. Acts 10:38 KJVHow God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanMatthew 11:1-30 & Genesis 36-37 2-Year Bible Reading PlanActs 9:21-31 & Job 1-2 DAILY AFFIRMATION: I am not of this world; I am born from heaven and live the life of heaven now in the earth! I’m conscious of my heavenly blessings, rights, and privileges and I enjoy them to the full. I refuse to be limited by contrary forces around me; I accomplish the impossible, I do the spectacular and reach for the peak in all my endeavours. I have the wisdom of the just, which propels me to function in God’s perfect will. The wisdom of God is in my heart and in my mouth today, and I deal excellently in all my affairs. I am full of God’s might! I function by His power and glory today, full of the Spirit in wisdom, having a spiritual understanding of all things! Victory is my heritage and my life! I was born to be triumphant always and in every place. Regardless of the challenges that I may face, I will always win. It makes no difference what happens, where I find myself or who’s against me; I am more than a conqueror! I can never be disadvantaged. God has given me everything it takes to live victoriously every day. The Lord has magnified me. He has increased my greatness. I have divine access to wealth untold. The Holy Spirit shows me the secrets of life. I am making continuous and consistent progress. The Lord has filled my mouth with laughter and His joy is my strength. I do not know weakness, depression, or oppression of any sort. I am stronger, bigger, healthier, brighter, and wiser today, than I was yesterday, for the invigorating power of the Holy Spirit works actively and mightily in and through me daily. I am full of life. I am full of faith. I am full of joy. I am full of peace. I am full of strength and I am doing wonders. God’s glory is evident in my physical body, coursing through my being, ridding me of every infirmity, feebleness, or weakness. It is seen in my family, job, business, and all areas of my life. I have eternal life and walk in the consciousness of it. I walk in dominion over sickness, disease, and death, over the discouragements and frustrations that affect humanity in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen. Speak in tongues.