A serving corps member in Lagos State, Ushie Rita Uguamaye, has openly criticized the management of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), declaring that her life remains fulfilling and successful even without the scheme’s Certificate of National Service (CNS). Speaking during a live session on her official TikTok page alongside friends, Ushie alleged that the NYSC was attempting to project an image of being “unshakeable” while, in her view, it was their officials who were guilty of breaking established rules. “Before now, I did not have that certificate, yet my life was already great. NYSC is insisting on not giving me the certificate. They are trying to act as though they cannot be challenged, but the truth is their own people are the ones violating the rules. I am no longer interested in the certificate,” she stated during the session. When asked further whether she would comply with the two-month service extension reportedly imposed on her, Ushie declined to give a direct response, saying she was not ready to address that question at the moment. NYSC Responds to Claims Meanwhile, the NYSC has dismissed widespread social media reports claiming that Ushie was denied her CNS because she made critical remarks about the Nigerian government. In an official statement, the scheme categorically described the allegations as entirely false, clarifying that the decision to withhold her certificate was due to valid disciplinary grounds and had no political undertones. According to NYSC, Ushie was among 131 corps members nationwide whose certificates were withheld for various infractions during their service year. In her particular case, the management explained that her service year had been extended by two months because she failed to attend the April 2025 biometric clearance exercise. The NYSC emphasized that this sanction was consistent with the organization’s bye-laws, which stipulate extensions as penalties for certain breaches. Background to the Controversy LMSINT MEDIA recalls that in March 2025, Ushie had expressed frustration over the high cost of goods and living expenses in Nigeria, directly criticizing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for neglecting the escalating cost of commodities. In the viral video that drew public attention, she remarked: “If many Nigerians can come out and begin speaking openly about what we are enduring, maybe the government will be forced to make changes. I just want to say to our president— I don’t know if there has ever been another president as terrible as you, but you are such a terrible president.” Her blunt comments sparked heated debates online, with supporters praising her courage and critics accusing her of being disrespectful to constituted authority.
Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has offered an automatic employment opportunity to Mrs. Akaniro Gethrude Chinyere, the dedicated wife of a visually impaired teacher at Ozuitem Secondary School in Bende Local Government Area (LGA). Mrs. Chinyere had selflessly devoted her time to assisting her husband in classroom teaching duties for years — despite not receiving any form of salary or official appointment. Her touching story gained public attention after a viral media report showcased her unwavering commitment to supporting her blind husband in the pursuit of quality education for students. Governor Otti’s Swift Intervention Acting on the matter, Governor Otti instructed his Special Adviser on Basic and Secondary Education, Kenechukwu Nwosu, to pay an official visit to Ozuitem Secondary School. The visit was aimed at assessing the school’s existing challenges and verifying the authenticity of the viral video involving the blind teacher and his supportive spouse. Following the verification, Governor Otti approved her appointment, making it official through a formal presentation. Mrs. Chinyere was handed her letter of employment by the Special Adviser. Improving Education in Abia State During the presentation, Mr. Nwosu emphasized that the recent recruitment of 5,300 teachers in Abia State is part of the government’s broader initiative to strengthen the teacher–pupil ratio in public schools. He added that dedicated individuals like Mrs. Chinyere symbolize the resilience and commitment that the education sector needs. Gratitude from the Beneficiaries In response, Mrs. Chinyere and her husband, Mr. Akaniro, expressed deep gratitude to Governor Otti for his benevolence. They described the gesture as overwhelming and life-changing, promising to continue contributing to the academic growth of students in the state. ? This development highlights the importance of recognizing selfless contributions in the education sector and ensuring that passionate individuals receive the support and opportunities they deserve.
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The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, has once again made a clear and personal prophecy regarding the manner and timing of his passing. Speaking during the ongoing RCCG International Convention themed “The Overcomers”, the highly respected cleric revealed that his death will occur on a Sunday — immediately after attending church service and eating one of his favourite meals, pounded yam. Adeboye’s Remarkable Death Prophecy Pastor Adeboye explained that death does not always have to be preceded by a prolonged illness or suffering. In his words: “I will die on a Sunday after attending service, eat my beloved pounded yam, and then pass on without any sickness.” The prophecy, which was delivered with calm assurance, reflects the preacher’s long-standing emphasis on finishing life’s journey in peace and in the service of God. A Vision Previously Shared This revelation is not entirely new. Adeboye had first shared a similar vision two years ago, where he described his passing in almost identical terms. His consistency in retelling this prophetic insight suggests that it holds deep spiritual significance for him and his ministry. Message to Believers While delivering a sermon titled “Possess Your Possessions”, Pastor Adeboye urged Christians to boldly claim the promises of God and take spiritual authority over what rightfully belongs to them through Christ. His statement was both a call to faith and a reminder that a life dedicated to God ends with victory, not defeat. The pastor’s words have sparked reflection among many followers, encouraging them to think not only about their spiritual inheritance but also about how they live each day in preparation for eternity.
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The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has officially petitioned the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), requesting the immediate investigation and prosecution of veteran Fuji music icon, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as K1 De Ultimate. According to reports, the incident in question occurred on Tuesday when K1 De Ultimate, also referred to as KWAM 1, was involved in a confrontation aboard a ValueJet aircraft. He was allegedly removed from the flight for carrying a flask containing alcohol, which is prohibited under standard flight safety regulations. Following his removal, the musician reportedly attempted to block the plane from taxiing, an action that has been described as a serious breach of aviation safety protocols and a clear violation of standard operational procedures. Aviation experts have warned that such behaviour poses significant safety risks and undermines the enforcement of aviation laws. NCAA Calls for Investigation and Prosecution In an official statement released on Thursday, the NCAA urged the Attorney-General and the IGP to “launch a thorough investigation into the incident” and to ensure “appropriate prosecution in line with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations 2023 and all other relevant laws.” The aviation authority stressed that the integrity of Nigeria’s air transport system relies heavily on strict compliance with safety regulations and that no individual—regardless of social status—should be exempt from the law. Recommendation for No-Fly List Placement As part of immediate safety measures, the Director General of Civil Aviation, Capt. Chris Najomo, has issued an advisory to the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), recommending that K1 De Ultimate be placed on a No-Fly List pending the conclusion of all investigations. If enforced, the recommendation would prevent the Fuji legend from boarding any Nigerian commercial flight until the matter is legally resolved. The NCAA’s action highlights the zero-tolerance stance of aviation authorities towards conduct that endangers passenger safety and disrupts airline operations.
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The Nigerian Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has officially confirmed that Fuji music icon Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1, has been banned from flying temporarily, following a disruptive incident involving ValueJet Airlines. In a detailed post on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, Keyamo described the confrontation—which unfolded on Tuesday, August 5, 2025—as a momentary lapse of reasoning and self-restraint from both parties involved: the artist and the airline crew. After personally reviewing surveillance footage of the occurrence, Keyamo dismissed the claims made by representatives of KWAM 1, stating that the musician repeatedly shifted his stance in a deliberate attempt to obstruct the aircraft from taxiing on the runway. “The core issue here is not whether KWAM 1 was in possession of water or an alcoholic beverage,” Keyamo emphasized. “The core of the problem lies in his utterly inappropriate and hazardous behavior on the tarmac.” He further described KWAM 1’s actions as akin to a hostage situation, stating that physically impeding an aircraft’s movement on a runway poses a severe threat to aviation safety and cannot be excused under any circumstance. However, Keyamo did not absolve the airline’s crew. He expressed concern over the ValueJet pilot and captain’s decision to proceed with taxiing, despite the obvious security hazard of someone standing directly in front of the aircraft. “Regardless of any provocation, the crew’s first responsibility is safety. They should have verified that all passengers were cleared from the path of the aircraft before initiating any movement,” the minister stated firmly. In response to the event, Keyamo announced that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has temporarily suspended the licenses of the pilot and captain involved, pending the outcome of a thorough investigation. Additionally, the aviation minister ordered the NCAA to place KWAM 1 on the national no-fly list, noting that the same investigatory standards applied to the airline staff would be enforced on the musician. All airlines operating in Nigeria—both local and international carriers—have been officially instructed to comply with this restriction. “Any airline found violating this directive risks having its operating license revoked,” Keyamo warned. This enforcement reflects a zero-tolerance approach to safety violations in Nigeria’s aviation sector, sending a strong message to both passengers and flight operators.
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In a bid to address growing misinformation surrounding the reported travel sanctions on renowned Fuji artist Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, widely known as K1 de Ultimate, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has made a clear distinction regarding its involvement. Contrary to reports circulating in some quarters, the NCAA is not the authority imposing the alleged six-month ban on the artist. Instead, the initiative to blacklist the musician stems directly from domestic Nigerian airline operators, not the country’s civil aviation regulatory body. This clarification was made public by Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the NCAA, during an exclusive interview with LMSINT MEDIA on Thursday, August 7, 2025. “It is not the NCAA that is blacklisting him but Nigerian airline operators,” Achimugu firmly stated. This update follows earlier speculation that K1 de Ultimate had been banned by federal aviation authorities, sparking public outrage and media buzz. Achimugu emphasized that the matter is still under active investigation by relevant government agencies. “The incident is still under investigation. Any individual found culpable will face appropriate legal consequences,” he added, pointing out that the final outcome will be based on investigative findings rather than conjecture. Background of the Incident Involving K1 De Ultimate The ongoing issue originated from an event that occurred on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at the domestic wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. The incident allegedly involved improper conduct by the Fuji icon, leading to a disruption in standard airport procedures. Following this, the NCAA promptly suspended the crew members of ValueJet, the airline connected to the incident. The suspension was based on their failure to comply with established safety and operational protocols at the airport. In response to public interest and aviation safety standards, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) also confirmed that it had launched an official probe into the matter, as reported by FAAN in its recent release. However, in a separate statement issued on Thursday, K1 De Ultimate denied any involvement in wrongdoing, claiming that he conducted himself appropriately and in accordance with airport regulations. As the story continues to unfold, aviation authorities have reiterated their commitment to ensuring orderliness, safety, and fair justice within Nigeria’s air travel sector.
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Dr. Doyin Abiola, a distinguished icon in Nigerian journalism and the former Managing Director of National Concord Newspaper, has died at the age of 82. According to credible family sources, the veteran journalist passed away peacefully at precisely 9:15 p.m. on Tuesday following a short illness. Dr. Abiola, who was married to the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, stands out in history as the first Nigerian woman to attain the dual roles of editor and later managing director/editor-in-chief of a major national daily. Her pioneering efforts reshaped the editorial terrain of Nigeria’s print media industry and opened new doors for women in journalism. A Life of Firsts and Fearless Journalism Born in 1943, Doyin Abiola studied English and Drama at the University of Ibadan, graduating in 1969. Her journey into journalism commenced at the Daily Sketch, where her daring and widely-read column, Tiro, offered unfiltered perspectives on public issues — particularly those affecting Nigerian women. Seeking to deepen her knowledge and skills, she traveled to the United States in 1970 for postgraduate studies. She earned a Master’s degree in Journalism and returned home shortly after, where she joined Daily Times as a Features Writer. Demonstrating excellence in her craft, she eventually rose to become Group Features Editor. In 1979, she achieved another academic milestone by earning a Ph.D. in Communications and Political Science from the prestigious New York University (NYU). Leadership at National Concord and Beyond Her career peaked in 1980 when she was appointed the pioneering editor of the newly established National Concord, a newspaper founded by business tycoon and politician Chief MKO Abiola. Demonstrating exceptional leadership and editorial vision, she became the Managing Director of the media outfit by 1986. In 1981, Dr. Doyin Abiola and Chief MKO Abiola formalized their union in marriage. MKO Abiola is widely recognized as the presumed winner of Nigeria’s annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election. Throughout his political activism and subsequent detention, Dr. Abiola exemplified strength, dignity, and unwavering support, earning admiration from both local and international observers. Contributions to Journalism Education and Media Development Beyond newsroom operations, Dr. Abiola made substantial contributions to journalism education and media policy development in Nigeria. She chaired the Nigerian Media Merit Award (NMMA) nomination panel and served on the advisory council of Ogun State University’s Faculty of Social and Management Sciences. Her life’s work garnered numerous prestigious accolades, including the Eisenhower Fellowship in 1986. She was also a recipient of the Diamond Award for Media Excellence (DAME) Lifetime Achievement Award, becoming only the second woman ever to receive that honor — the first being Mrs. Omobola Onajide. A Lasting Legacy of Excellence and Courage Dr. Doyin Abiola’s enduring legacy is rooted in her fearless journalism, her trailblazing role in media leadership, and her unflinching dedication to truth, democracy, and public service. She has left behind an inspirational path that many upcoming media professionals, especially women, will follow for generations to come. The family is expected to release details of her funeral arrangements in the coming days.
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A 17-year-old girl from Northern Nigeria, Nafisat Aminu, hailing from Yobe State, has distinguished herself on the global academic stage by securing the first position in English Language during the recently concluded TeenEagle Global Finals held in London, United Kingdom. The results were officially made public on Monday, confirming that Nafisat emerged as the best overall performer in English Language, outperforming brilliant minds from 69 different countries across various continents. This outstanding academic feat places her not only as a symbol of excellence for Nigeria but also as a beacon of hope for young African girls aspiring to make global impacts through education. The TeenEagle competition, an international platform designed to evaluate students’ proficiency in English Language and communication skills, attracts participants from schools worldwide. It serves as a benchmark for young learners to test their intellectual capacity, written expression, vocabulary command, and public speaking abilities on an international level. The competition is known for its highly competitive nature and global prestige. Nafisat’s historic win is especially significant given the geographical and developmental challenges often associated with Northern Nigeria. Her success story has since gone viral on various social media platforms, where users have expressed pride and admiration for her brilliance and determination. This exceptional academic accomplishment not only showcases the intellectual potential of Nigerian students but also underscores the importance of promoting quality education, especially for girls in underrepresented regions. Educational advocates have lauded her achievement as a testament to what is possible when the right environment and support systems are in place. Her story is expected to inspire a new wave of students across Africa to aim higher and participate more in international academic platforms. Stakeholders in the Nigerian education sector are also being urged to invest more in talent discovery and development at both regional and national levels.
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Fuel stations across Nigeria have raised the retail price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), following an upward revision in the ex-depot prices by both Dangote Refinery and major depot operators. According to on-ground updates gathered by LMSINT MEDIA correspondents, the sudden surge affected several areas, particularly Gwarimpa and other zones within Abuja, where Empire Energy and Ranoil stations revised their petrol pump prices. As observed on Saturday morning, Empire Energy now dispenses petrol at ₦935 per litre, while Ranoil has pushed the rate further to ₦970 per litre. This marks a noticeable jump from ₦905 and ₦900 per litre, respectively, recorded on Friday night. In a direct conversation with LMSINT MEDIA, Chinedu Ukadike, the spokesperson for the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), confirmed that the fresh price adjustment is tied to an increase in ex-depot pricing by Dangote Refinery and other key supply depots across Nigeria. “Both the depot operators and Dangote Refinery have revised their ex-depot petrol rates upward,” Ukadike stated. He further disclosed specific figures, saying, “As of Friday’s rate, Dangote Refinery set its ex-depot price at ₦858 per litre, up from ₦820 per litre. Other depots followed suit, with NIPCO at ₦870, and both Aiteo and Ranoil pegging theirs at ₦855 per litre.” The IPMAN spokesperson attributed this spike to two global economic indicators — the foreign exchange rate volatility and the rising crude oil prices in the international market. Despite this development, some major petrol stations including the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC), MRS, Optima, and AP Ardova were still retailing petrol at relatively lower rates in Abuja. At the time this report was filed, NNPC dispensed at ₦890, while MRS, Optima, and AP Ardova sold at ₦885 per litre. Additionally, according to a report by OilPrice.com, global benchmarks such as Brent Crude and West Texas Intermediate (WTI) declined as of Saturday morning, settling at $69.67 and $67.33 per barrel, respectively.
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended religious leaders across Lagos State for their continued efforts in promoting unity and peaceful coexistence among individuals of diverse religious backgrounds. He described their consistent interfaith harmony as a cornerstone of Lagos’ enduring stability. The commendation was delivered over the weekend at a special ordination ceremony for the newly appointed spiritual leader of The Saviour’s Ministries Worldwide, Cherubim and Seraphim Church, situated in Alausa, Ikeja. The new spiritual head, Baba Aladura Prince Gbenga Adeniran-Aluko, was officially installed in the presence of dignitaries and faithful. Speaking on behalf of President Tinubu at the occasion was Bishop Stephen T. V. Adegbite, the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC). The President expressed gratitude for the unwavering spiritual support and regular prayers extended to his administration by various religious institutions. President Tinubu reassured citizens that the current economic difficulties facing the nation are only temporary. He emphasized that his administration is actively implementing critical reforms aimed at restoring economic stability and long-term relief for all Nigerians. In his congratulatory message to the newly ordained Baba Aladura, Tinubu remarked: “I heartily celebrate Baba Aladura Gbenga Adeniran-Aluko on this remarkable elevation, which comes at a crucial period when the church needs bold, visionary, and reform-minded leadership to steer it forward.” Reflecting on his identity as a Lagos resident, Tinubu lauded the collective unity shown by Lagos-based religious leaders. He acknowledged that their consistent advocacy for peaceful religious coexistence has been instrumental in fostering social harmony and a violence-free environment in the state. “The peace we enjoy in Lagos today is commendable. I deeply appreciate all religious leaders and acknowledge the Lagos State Government for sustaining this environment of mutual respect and peaceful collaboration,” the President stated. Furthermore, Tinubu urged Nigerians—especially members of the religious community across all denominations—to continue to pray and intercede for leaders at all tiers of government. He emphasized that such spiritual support is not only symbolic but also crucial to driving national growth, stability, and lasting development.
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Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:19). It’s normal to describe the people of the world, those who haven’t received salvation, as sinners. However, it’s important to know that they were not made sinners by their own actions but by Adam’s transgression. Romans 5:12 explains this some more; it says, “Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned.” That means all were made sinners because of Adam’s disobedience. But the beauty of the Gospel is this: Just as one man’s disobedience made many sinners, so also, through the obedience of one man, Jesus Christ, many are made righteous: “For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous” (Romans 5:19).Blessed be God! This is the Gospel we’ve been sent to preach: a Gospel of life and righteousness. Don’t try to convince people that they are sinners. Instead, let them know why they needed salvation in the first place; it was Adam’s transgression; it brought death into the world and that death was passed into everything. But thanks be unto God; our Lord Jesus Christ brought life and immortality to light through the Gospel (2 Timothy 1:10). He was made sin for us who knew no sin so that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him (2 Corinthians 5:21). 1 John 5:11 says, “And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.” This is the Gospel: It’s the message of life, victory and righteousness in Christ Jesus. This is the message we must proclaim to the whole world. Hallelujah! CONFESSIONIn Christ, I have received life, victory and righteousness; I am justified in Him. Thank you, Lord, for the glorious Gospel that brings salvation and illuminates the hearts of men with the knowledge of Christ’s finished works. I walk in the fullness of life and reign in righteousness, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDY:John 5:24; Romans 5:17-19; 1 Corinthians 15:21-22; 2 Corinthians 5:19-21 DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanRomans 6:1-14 & Psalms 56-59 2-Year Bible Reading PlanLuke 12:22-34 & Judges 7 DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: My life is an endless stream of testimonies of God’s ever-increasing grace. I’m like a tree planted by the streams; vibrant, prosperous, and ever-fruitful. I testify that Christ lives in me; I live the awesome, transcendent life of ever-increasing glory; in health, vitality, and abundance as the Lord preordained. With my words, I consistently chart the course of victory and success in life. I testify that the Holy Spirit continually vitalizes my body; I testify that divinity is at work in me and has elevated me above the sufferings and limitations of humanity. My life is a daily expression of great joy. I am full of glory. I experience the awesome blessings God has delivered to me through salvation. I have God’s very life and nature. This God-life makes me impregnable to sickness, disease, infections, and the destructions that ravage the ordinary man. The power of the Holy Spirit touches everything in my body; thus, I am infused with divine strength. There is no situation I cannot change, for the inherent power to do exceeding abundantly above all that I could ask, think, or imagine is within me. I am seated together with Christ, far above all principality and power. I exercise dominion over my body through the Word and over sickness and death. My life is built on the Word of God. It keeps me in health, strength, and victory, making me experience unprecedented progress, peace, and prosperity in my life. I am a tree planted by the rivers of water. I bring forth my fruits and my leaves shall never run dry. I am furnished in abundance for every good work and charitable donation. Everything required for life and godliness is present in me. There’s order and grace in my life. I will never go down. When men are cast down, I will always be lifted. I have overcome the world and its limitations. My spirit is open to infinite possibilities, as far as my eyes can see, as much as my heart can contain. The Lord has set infinity and eternity in my heart. I can see, and I see far. I see greatness. My vision is lifted, and my capacity is expanded. I bask in the provisions of Christ for my life, health, and all that concern me in Jesus’ name, Amen. Speak in tongues.
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Dolores Osteen, the beloved co-founder of the globally renowned Lakewood Church, widely referred to by family, church members, and followers as “Mama Dodie,” has sadly passed away. Her son, Pastor Joel Osteen, shared the heartbreaking news via a post on X (formerly known as Twitter) on Thursday, confirming the peaceful transition of his mother at the age of 91 due to natural causes. In the heartfelt announcement, Pastor Joel Osteen wrote: “It is with a heavy heart that Victoria and I, along with our family, announce the passing of our cherished mother and grandmother, Dolores ‘Dodie’ Osteen.” Dolores Osteen was not only the mother of one of America’s most prominent televangelists but also a pillar in the foundation and spiritual life of Lakewood Church, located in Houston, Texas. Her unwavering faith, warmth, and inspiring testimony of surviving cancer contributed to her iconic status within the Christian community worldwide. Paying tribute to her enduring legacy, former President of Nigeria, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, expressed deep sorrow on Thursday night. In his condolence statement, he recognized Mrs. Osteen’s enduring spiritual strength and impact: “Mrs. Osteen was a remarkable woman of deep faith and resilience. Her legacy will endure not only through the continued impact of Lakewood Church but also through the countless lives she touched with her kindness and deep faith.” Her life was one marked by grace, unwavering devotion, and decades of ministry that reached people across generations and continents. From the early days of co-founding the church with her late husband, John Osteen, to being a spiritual guide and symbol of strength, her influence remains deeply embedded in the hearts of millions. The global Christian community continues to mourn this significant loss while celebrating her lasting influence. Dolores Osteen leaves behind a legacy rooted in compassion, healing, and unwavering belief in God’s purpose.
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In a profound show of compassion and unity, the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), covering the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), visited Benue State to express unwavering solidarity following the resurgence of deadly attacks in the region. The delegation’s core message to the government and people of Benue was simple yet powerful: “You are not alone.” The solemn visit took place at the Benue State Government House in Makurdi, where Governor Hyacinth Alia received the delegation led by Reverend J.J. Hayab, along with bishops, senior pastors, and prominent leaders from diverse Christian denominations. This high-level spiritual condolence visit came in the aftermath of renewed violent attacks in the state, reaffirming that the pain and grief experienced in Benue is deeply shared across Northern Nigeria’s Christian community. A Unified Front of Faith and Empathy The presence of a diverse and ecumenical team of Christian leaders sent a clear message of collective grief and concern for the affected communities. This visit followed closely after the official sympathy visit by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who also came to Benue to personally offer condolences and highlight the federal government’s commitment to the situation. Speaking emotionally at the gathering, Governor Hyacinth Alia described the moment as both spiritually reviving and emotionally moving. He praised the delegation for their courage and empathy in physically visiting during such troubled times. “You risked your lives to be here tonight. As I shook hands with each of you, I felt warmth, I felt love,” said the Governor. He invoked the African philosophy of communal identity, stating: “This is what Christianity is: ‘I am because you are, and you are because I am.’” Governor Alia emphasized that the combined visits from both the federal government and religious leaders reaffirmed the fact that Benue is not abandoned in its battle against insecurity. He encouraged Christian leaders to broaden their scope of influence and play more visible roles in the nation’s political discourse and policymaking. “Until you get to the formula table, you won’t understand the equation,” he said, implying the importance of religious voices in national transformation and governance. Despite the somber context of the visit, Governor Alia acknowledged some of the economic reforms introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, including the removal of fuel subsidies, noting them as necessary although painful steps toward achieving macroeconomic stability in Nigeria. Not Just A Visit – A Call to Justice In his heartfelt remarks, Rev. J.J. Hayab stressed that their presence in Benue was deeply intentional, aimed at showing physical solidarity rather than just issuing distant press releases or generic statements. “We didn’t just want to issue statements from afar. We came to tell you face-to-face: you are not alone,” Hayab said firmly. He drew a clear line between genuine pastoral herdsmen and those perpetrating violence, asserting: “When terrorists kill sleeping children, women, and students, don’t call them herdsmen. That is not who herdsmen are. Call them what they are — criminals.” Rev. Hayab warned that the violence in Benue, Nigeria’s agricultural heartland, poses a grave threat to national food security, urging immediate action to prevent worsening of the humanitarian and economic crises. CAN Benue Applauds Governor Alia’s Governance Reverend Jonathan Terwase Ugbede, the Vice-Chairman of CAN in Benue State, also spoke during the event. He lauded the administration of Governor Alia for fulfilling key governance promises despite the ongoing security challenges. “Here in Benue, no civil servant is owed current salaries. Pensioners are rejoicing. Our governor is a promise keeper, a talk-and-do leader,” Ugbede remarked. He added that the governor’s name, “Iormem”, meaning “the people have rested,” is beginning to manifest in reality through his administration’s efforts to ensure peace, accountability, and transparency. The visiting delegation featured representatives from all major Christian blocs in the region, including Catholic, Baptist, ECWA, Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), PEACAN, and White Garment churches, illustrating a united Christian community standing together in times of sorrow.
