President Bola Tinubu Celebrates Wole Soyinka at 91, Calls Him an Uncommon Patriot and Global Icon

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to the revered Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, describing him as an uncommon patriot and a global source of inspiration as he marks his 91st birthday. The commendation came through a heartfelt statement issued on Sunday by Bayo Onanuga, the President’s Senior Special Assistant on Strategic Communications. Tinubu, in his message, extended warm congratulations to the legendary literary figure on his milestone 91st birthday. The President commended Professor Soyinka’s remarkable legacy and indelible impact on Nigeria’s educational advancement, pro-democracy efforts, human rights advocacy, cultural diplomacy, and nation-building. For decades, Soyinka has remained at the forefront of intellectual and civic engagement, influencing not only Nigeria but also shaping global conversations on justice, governance, and the arts. “I celebrate Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, as he marks yet another year of an illustrious life. His unwavering commitment and continued contributions to the progress of Nigeria deserve immense appreciation,” President Tinubu stated. Tinubu emphasized that Professor Soyinka embodies the spirit of an uncommon patriot, steadfast in his dedication to national development and unwavering in his quest for societal justice. He noted that despite advancing in age, Soyinka remains a beacon of wisdom and a profound source of inspiration to Nigerians and writers worldwide, particularly to younger generations who have risen to both national and international acclaim. “Even at 91, Professor Soyinka stands as a pillar of enlightenment and a guiding light to our nation and beyond. We are profoundly grateful for his enduring service to Nigeria and the broader humanity,” the President affirmed. In historical context, LMSINT MEDIA recalls that Wole Soyinka carved his name into the annals of global history as the first African recipient of the Nobel Prize in Literature, an honor he received in 1986. His unique and powerful literary voice spans plays, poems, essays, memoirs, and critical discourses, cementing his status as one of Africa’s most illustrious intellectuals. Soyinka’s work continues to influence discussions on cultural identity, political freedom, and human rights, solidifying his position as not only a Nigerian treasure but a global cultural ambassador.

BREAKING NEWS: Buhari’s Death – President Tinubu Sends Shettima to London to Repatriate Late Buhari’s Body to Nigeria

In a significant and emotional development, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mandated Vice President Kashim Shettima to immediately travel to the United Kingdom following the demise of former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari. Shettima’s assignment is to personally accompany the late leader’s remains back to Nigeria for proper national rites. This directive from President Tinubu comes shortly after the official announcement confirming the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari. According to sources close to the family, Buhari died in London on Sunday at approximately 4:30 PM, after battling a protracted illness that had kept him away from the public eye for some time. President Tinubu, who disclosed this national loss to the public, expressed his deep sorrow and extended heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased. Specifically, Tinubu reached out to Mrs. Aishat Buhari, the widow of the former President, offering words of comfort and national solidarity in this period of grief. The presidency has also issued an official order instructing Vice President Shettima to head to the UK immediately to oversee the dignified and respectful repatriation of Buhari’s body. This move underscores the administration’s commitment to honoring national leaders, both past and present, and ensuring that Buhari’s remains return home with the utmost dignity. Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away at 81, remains a significant figure in Nigeria’s history. He was democratically elected as the nation’s President in 2015 and was re-elected for a second term in 2019. Prior to his civilian leadership, Buhari had a notable military career, serving as Nigeria’s military Head of State from January 1984 until August 1985. In line with national mourning protocols, President Tinubu has declared that Nigerian flags should be flown at half-mast across the country and in all foreign missions as a mark of respect and tribute to the late former President Buhari. This moment marks a reflective period for Nigeria, as the nation comes together to honor the legacy of a leader whose impact spanned both military and democratic governance. The return of Buhari’s body from the United Kingdom will be met with official state protocols and ceremonies befitting his status. For further official statements and updates on the burial arrangements, Nigerians are advised to stay tuned to the official communication channels of the Presidency and the Federal Government.

BREAKING NEWS: Nigeria’s Former President Muhammadu Buhari Reportedly Dead in London

Nigeria has been thrown into mourning following the official confirmation of the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari. The sad announcement was shared by his former aide, Bashir Ahmad, alongside his long-serving media spokesperson, Garba Shehu. In a concise statement released by Garba Shehu, he disclosed: “The family of the former president has announced the passing of Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, earlier today in a London clinic.May Allah grant him eternal rest in Aljannatul Firdaus. Amin.” The shocking news has triggered a wave of reactions across Nigeria and internationally, given Buhari’s significant impact on the nation’s political landscape. Buhari, who served as Nigeria’s military Head of State in the 1980s and later returned as a democratically elected President between 2015 and 2023, was often a central figure in the country’s governance discussions. While the immediate cause of his death remains undisclosed, reports confirm that he passed away while undergoing medical care in London — a city he frequented for health-related issues during his presidency. Buhari’s health had been a topic of national concern in the past, especially during his prolonged medical trips abroad. Bashir Ahmad, who served as Buhari’s New Media aide, corroborated the statement shared by Shehu, ensuring that Nigerians and the world understand the gravity of the loss. The family of the late president has yet to provide further details regarding funeral arrangements or official ceremonies. As reactions continue to pour in from political allies, citizens, and international observers, the legacy of Muhammadu Buhari — both his military rule and democratic leadership — will undoubtedly be revisited and evaluated by historians and political analysts alike. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and pray that his soul finds peace in Aljannatul Firdaus

Rhapsody of Realities July 13th 2025, IT’S ALL IN YOU

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue (2 Peter 1:3). The Lord is wonderful. Think about all that He’s made us and given to us in Christ Jesus! Our opening scripture says He’s given us everything that pertains to life and godliness. That means everything you require to live triumphantly, in absolute dominion over circumstances, in health, prosperity and peace is all in you. This simply means that the quality of your life is not in the money you have, for all the money you’ll ever have is inside you. All the cars you’d ever drive, the clothes, houses, and everything you’d ever own and enjoy in this life is inside you. Ephesians 3:20 says, “Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us.” The Bible says in Ecclesiastes 3:11, “He hath made everything beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart….” The NIV says, “…He has also set eternity in the human heart….” If eternity is in your heart, then everything you need is in your heart, waiting to be released through your faith and actions. The quality of your life is in your heart. This helps us understand the words of the Master in Luke 6:45,“A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh.” He shows us where good and evil things come from: your heart. He also shows us how they come —from your words. God, in Christ Jesus, has placed everything you need inside you. You’re like a seed, fully equipped with everything you need to become a fruit, a plantation, and a forest. But you must grow in the knowledge of God’s Word and speak accordingly: “Which things also we speak…” (1 Corinthians 2:13). That’s how you activate what God has deposited in your spirit. PRAYERDear Father, thank you for the revelation of your Word. I recognize that everything I require for life and godliness is already inside me. Therefore, I function from this vantage position of knowledge and strength as I chart my course in prosperity, victories and divine health, manifesting your righteousness, excellence and glory in all that I do, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDYMatthew 12:35A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things. 2 Peter 1:3 NIVHis divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. 1 Corinthians 2:12-13Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. 13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:Acts 21:37-40, Acts 22:1-21 & Job 32-35 2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:Luke 8:26-39 & Joshua 9 Extract From Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: I have a sharp memory and a firm capacity to remember important details, experiences and knowledge. My mental acuity and my cognitive abilities are top-notch. I am born of God, therefore, fear has no place in my life. I am perceptive, astute and smart. I am confident, bold and courageous. In me abides all the grace, wisdom, prosperity, strength and courage I need to fulfil my glorious destiny in Christ! I have everything I require for life and godliness. I’m what God says I am, I have all He says I have, and I can do all things in His Name. All things are possible to me because I believe. I am rich in all things, having inherited all things, for I’m a joint-heir with Christ! I’m fruitful and productive. I am making progress in every area of my life. I’m complete in Christ and every facet of my life is perfected for excellence. The Spirit guides and inspires me to take actions that’ll guarantee evident and unstoppable progress, increase and blessings for me. I walk in the consciousness of God’s righteousness, I am securely established in Christ, and I live above the corrupting influences of this age. I live without worries, conflicts, and agitations. I walk in glory, dominion, and the strength of God. I do not worry about my health, finances, or anything else because the Lord has perfected all that concerns me. I can never be small because the anointing of God’s Spirit has set me apart for greatness, causing me to spread and make progress on every side. Jesus died and was resurrected so that I may enjoy the benefits of the new life in Christ. I walk daily in the consciousness of my divinity in Christ. I enjoy good health, peace, prosperity, and all-around success as I walk in the full blessings that Jesus Christ wrought for me, which I received when I obtained salvation. God’s Word is established in my life and it is evident for the world to see. I am seated with Christ in heavenly places, far above all principality and power, far above the devil and his minions, and far above sickness and disease in the mighty and matchless name of Jesus Christ. Amen. Speak in tongues.

Kano Palace Crisis Deepens: Emir Sanusi II, Top Officials Dragged to Court Over Forced Evictions and Property Demolitions

A fresh chapter has opened in the ongoing Kano emirate saga as nine senior palace officials have dragged the 14th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, along with 12 other individuals, before a Kano High Court. The lawsuit, which revolves around allegations of unlawful eviction and the demolition of ancestral homes within the historic palace grounds, underscores the escalating tensions within the emirate. Filed under suit number K/M1607/2025 at the Bichi Judicial Division of the Kano State High Court, the case is being presided over by Justice Musa Ahmad. The plaintiffs, led by Usman Dako, the Galadiman Sallama, include a cohort of palace titleholders and servants who allege that their eviction was politically motivated. Their grievance is centered on accusations that the current Emir, Muhammadu Sanusi II, and the Kano Emirate Council, orchestrated their displacement as retribution for their unwavering loyalty to the deposed Emir, Aminu Ado Bayero. This power tussle, emblematic of the broader Kano traditional institution’s challenges, has further polarized the emirate. In addition to Emir Sanusi II and the emirate council, the lawsuit names several high-profile entities and individuals, including the Inspector General of Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and several palace dignitaries, as respondents. Responding to the case, the court has issued an order compelling all parties involved to maintain the status quo ante—essentially preserving the existing state of affairs pending the court’s final determination. Moreover, the court authorized substituted service of legal documents, instructing that these be served via the Emirate Council Secretariat in Kano and through courier services for those respondents residing in Abuja. In a widely circulated video on social media, Usman Dako gave a personal account of his ordeal. He recounted that palace informants warned him that the Emir had allegedly ordered the expulsion of all individuals perceived as supporters of Aminu Ado Bayero. Dako narrated: “I was not around when my wife called me to say that some hoodlums were tearing down our home. By the time I returned, the house was in a devastating condition.” He further disclosed that the property under dispute held deep familial and historical significance. According to him, the late Emir Ado Bayero had gifted the house to his father, making it both an inheritance and a symbol of longstanding palace ties. “My father was born within the palace, and so was I. I don’t understand why we are being targeted just because we remain loyal to Emir Aminu Ado Bayero, especially when his father always treated us kindly,” Dako lamented. Despite the eviction and demolition of his residence, Dako remained resolute, openly reaffirming his allegiance to Aminu Ado Bayero, who was controversially dethroned amidst political undercurrents in Kano State. As of the time this report was compiled, neither Emir Sanusi II nor the Kano Emirate Council has made any official statement or provided clarification regarding these serious allegations and the unfolding legal battle. The Kano emirate’s internal crisis continues to unravel, with many observers closely monitoring the case for its potential impact on the revered but politically entangled traditional institution in northern Nigeria.

Rare Gorilla Spotted in Cross River Border Community with Cameroon

A rare species of gorilla has once again been spotted and captured on camera within a remote community in Cross River State, Nigeria. This sighting occurred in a mountainous region that lies along the international border between Nigeria and Cameroon, an area known for its rich but threatened biodiversity. This remarkable discovery comes just a few months after reports emerged of elephants wandering through the Boki Local Government Area (LGA) of Cross River State, where they reportedly damaged several farmlands during their passage. Such wildlife sightings have become increasingly rare in Nigeria due to environmental degradation and human encroachment on natural habitats. Confirming the gorilla sighting, Dr. Inaoyom Imong, a respected wildlife conservationist and expert in primate research, shared the news via his verified social media platform. Dr. Imong stated that the gorilla was caught by one of the strategically positioned forest camera traps used by conservationists in monitoring wildlife in the border areas between Nigeria and Cameroon. He emphasized that the Cross River gorillas, which are native to this region, are exceptionally rare and infrequently observed by humans. Much of the evidence of their continued survival primarily comes from their uniquely constructed nests — temporary structures built each night for sleeping — and from hidden camera traps installed across the forest landscape. Dr. Imong further explained that the Cross River gorilla is not only the most elusive but also the most endangered of the four recognized gorilla subspecies globally. It holds the grim classification of Critically Endangered according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species (source). He pointed out that these gorillas are confined to a very limited area, specifically within the rugged and mountainous headwaters of the Cross River. This restricted habitat range makes them highly vulnerable to numerous threats, including: Due to these compounded threats, the survival prospects of the Cross River gorilla remain bleak, with conservationists estimating that fewer than 300 individuals are left scattered across the Cross River landscape. This latest sighting has reignited discussions among conservation bodies, environmentalists, and policy makers about the urgent need to intensify efforts to protect Nigeria’s endangered species and their habitats. Such efforts could include stricter anti-poaching measures, reforestation initiatives, and increased community-based conservation awareness programs

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Nigerian Railway Corporation Set to Resume Jos-Bukuru Train Services Starting July 14, 2025 The Plateau State Ministry of Transportation has officially confirmed that the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) will recommence its daily train services along the popular Jos to Bukuru rail corridor from Monday, July 14, 2025. This highly anticipated resumption follows comprehensive repair efforts and a series of expert-led test runs that ensured the safety and functionality of the rail route. This development was communicated via an official statement issued by the Ministry’s Information Officer on behalf of the Honourable Commissioner, Davou Gyang. According to the statement, the resumption of train operations was made possible only after the infrastructure underwent thorough rehabilitation. In addition, specialized teams conducted necessary assessments to confirm that both the railway lines and the trains themselves meet the required standards for full service restoration. Furthermore, the NRC has given full certification for both the Jos-Bukuru railway routes and the trains designated for the daily trips. The service will comprise four scheduled daily trips between Bukuru Station and the Jos Terminus Station, incorporating strategic stops at both Old Airport Station and Dogon Karfe Station to facilitate commuter convenience. The Ministry’s announcement also highlighted the detailed schedule for the morning departure. The first train will leave Bukuru Station at 6:50 AM, stopping at Old Airport Station and Dogon Karfe Station, before concluding its journey at the Jos Terminus by 7:26 AM. Passengers can expect subsequent trips to follow this initial morning route throughout the day. In a bid to maximize the benefits of the newly restored rail service, the Ministry encourages residents and commuters within Jos and Bukuru to utilize the affordable train transport option for their daily movements. This initiative is expected to ease road traffic congestion and offer a cost-effective, efficient alternative to road transportation. For more details on Nigerian Railway Corporation schedules and services, visit the official NRC website.

Federal Recruitment 2025: Immigration, NSCDC, Prison Service, and Fire Service Open Application Portal

In a recent development, the Federal Ministry of Interior, Nigeria, has formally announced the commencement of the 2025 recruitment exercise into several of its core agencies. The recruitment process is officially set to kick off on Monday, July 14, 2025. This significant announcement was made public via the official X (formerly Twitter) handle of the Ministry, outlining that the application portal will be opened to eligible Nigerians interested in joining any of the four key paramilitary institutions under its supervision. Parastatals Involved in 2025 Recruitment The agencies participating in the upcoming 2025 recruitment exercise include: According to the statement shared by the Ministry on its verified social media handle, interested and qualified applicants are advised to begin the application process starting Monday, July 14, 2025. “Interested and qualified candidates are to register through recruitment.cdcfib.gov.ng,” the statement read. How to Apply for the 2025 Federal Recruitment Eligible individuals seeking employment into any of the listed paramilitary agencies must complete their registration through the official recruitment portal provided by the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) via recruitment.cdcfib.gov.ng. Additionally, the Ministry of Interior advised all applicants to carefully review the application requirements, eligibility criteria, and necessary documentation by visiting its official website at https://interior.gov.ng for more comprehensive information. This move signifies the government’s ongoing effort to enhance national security, job creation, and institutional manpower across core national paramilitary services.

Rhapsody of Realities July 12th 2025, ACCEPT GOD’S WORD AS TRUTH

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth (Mark 9:23). What a statement from the lips of the Master in our opening scripture above! Notice the profound but very simple instruction: “Only believe.” He says ALL things are possible to you if you believe. What does it take to believe? It simply means to accept that what the Lord has said is true. The Bible tells a beautiful story in Mark 5 that illustrates this. The Lord Jesus was approached by Jairus, a ruler of the synagogue whose daughter was gravely ill. Desperate for help, Jairus pleaded with the Lord to come and heal his daughter. On their way to Jairus’ house, messengers arrived to tell him his daughter had died. But then the Bible says, “As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, he saith unto the ruler of the synagogue, Be not afraid, only believe” (Mark 5:36). When they arrived at Jairus’ house, they found mourners already gathered. But the Lord Jesus took the girl’s hand and said, “…Talitha cumi; which is, being interpreted, Damsel, I say unto thee, arise” (Mark 5:41). Immediately, the twelve-year-old stood up and began to walk around, and they were astonished. Accept the Word of God as truth and act accordingly. That’s faith. Faith is not something you struggle with; it’s simply acting on the Word. That suddenly opens you to limitless possibilities, where anything and everything is possible unto you. PRAYERDear Father, thank you for your Word which is true and dependable. I act on your Word with boldness and confidence, knowing that what you have said is true and unchanging. My faith is alive and effectual because I act on your Word. I journey from glory to glory, walking in the light of your Word, and fulfilling your purpose for my life victoriously, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDYHebrews 11:1Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. John 17:17Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. Romans 4:20-21He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; 21 And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanActs 21:17-36 & Job 29-31 2-Year Bible Reading PlanLuke 8:19-25 & Joshua 8 Extract From Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: I walk in supernatural strength, supernatural health, supernatural supply, and supernatural abilities every day. My progress is unstoppable because I cannot be limited by sickness, disease, or the negativities of the ordinary life. As Jesus is above all things, so am I. The Holy Spirit has beautified my life. He brings colour into my life. I live a wonderful, colourful, beautiful, and productive life. I rejoice because the Lord Jesus has overcome this world for me. I have been made more than a conqueror in this life. I live in the victory Christ provided me; therefore, I am not afraid of sickness, for I reign in life through Christ Jesus. There’s no death in my path! In my path are life, health, blessings, peace, and prosperity. Christ is my wisdom, and the Word of God informs me daily, through the Holy Spirit. I’m filled with the fullness of God; loaded with all power, glory, might, and grace! The totality of divinity is fully present in my spirit and uniquely expressed through me! I display the perfections of Christ everyday in sound health and with a life that is sickness-free. I am seated together with Christ in the heavenly realms. Far above all principality, power, might, dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world but also in that which is to come! I’m exalted with Him in glory; I know who I am: chosen, royal, and peculiar! I experience the supernatural in my body every day by the power of God’s Spirit. I am a carrier of divinity. The fullness of the Godhead dwells in me bodily. I live life in its fullness. Every day of my life is full of God’s glory, beauty, excellence, and grace. I have been conditioned to live a life of glory. I have all that I require to excel and live in perpetual health, godliness, righteousness, and dominion here on earth. I am not subject to the rudiments and limitations of this world because I live in Christ, and Christ is my life. He’s in every fibre of my being, in every bone of my body, and in every cell of my blood. I reign and rule over circumstances in His Name. I walk in divine health and prosperity and function from a vantage position of victory and unending success in Christ. Hallelujah! Speak in tongues.

Why Nigeria’s NNPC Refineries May Never Work Again – Dangote Speaks Out

Aliko Dangote, the billionaire industrialist and president of the Dangote Group, has made a bold claim that Nigeria’s state-owned refineries—Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna—may never operate effectively again, despite the staggering $18 billion spent on their rehabilitation. The $18 Billion Question: Why Are NNPC Refineries Still Idle? While speaking during a tour of the newly built Dangote Petroleum Refinery, which has a massive capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, Dangote shed light on the years of failed refinery rehabilitation efforts. He explained that the decision to build his own refinery was influenced by the government’s refusal to privatize existing refineries during the late President Umar Musa Yar’Adua’s regime. “We purchased the refineries in 2007 along with other investors, but political changes forced us to return them,” Dangote said. Despite billions in investments over the years, the facilities have remained non-functional. “It’s Like Fixing a 40-Year-Old Car” — Dangote’s Analogy Dangote likened the effort to modernize the decades-old refineries to attempting to fix a 40-year-old vehicle with current technology—a futile process. “Even with a new engine, it won’t work because the structure is outdated,” he stated. This comment highlights the technological and structural obsolescence of Nigeria’s public refinery system. Obasanjo’s Take: NNPC Blocked Private Investment Former President Olusegun Obasanjo echoed Dangote’s concerns in a previous interview. He revealed that the government blocked private investment despite knowing NNPC couldn’t manage the refineries effectively. “Dangote and others paid $750 million to acquire the refineries. The Yar’Adua administration reversed the deal. Today, those refineries can’t even be sold for $200 million as scrap,” Obasanjo lamented. He also stated that the core of the problem is systemic corruption within NNPC, suggesting that accountability is long overdue. What This Means for Nigeria’s Oil Sector Nigeria remains one of the world’s top crude oil producers but continues to import refined petroleum due to the collapse of its local refineries. The reliance on foreign imports affects fuel prices, foreign reserves, and economic stability. With the full operation of the Dangote Refinery, many Nigerians are hopeful for a turnaround in local refining capacity. Why This Story Matters for 2025 and Beyond With global energy prices fluctuating and nations seeking energy independence, Nigeria’s dependence on imports despite local resources is a national crisis. Dangote’s refinery may mark a new chapter, but the lessons from the failed NNPC refineries must not be ignored. Dangote’s revelations are a stark reminder of how government inefficiencies and policy somersaults have paralyzed Nigeria’s vital oil infrastructure. As the nation pins its hopes on the success of Dangote Refinery, it’s clear that a private sector-led approach might be Nigeria’s only way out of energy dependency.

Rhapsody of Realities July 10th 2025, SEE FROM THE MOUNTAIN TOP

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth (Colossians 3:1-2). The Word of God gives us clear instructions as to how to live, the mindset we should have, and what our outlook on life should be. Take for example what we just read in our opening scripture. The Lord is telling you to focus on heavenly things and not on earthly things. Have a mountain-top view. It brings to mind something remarkable that the Lord told me many years ago; He said, “Son, see from the mountaintop.” The interesting thing is, I didn’t even realize I was on the mountaintop until He told me. You see, it’s not something you feel physically or emotionally. I know that some Christians say they are “journeying” and trying to get to the mountaintop. But being born again, you’re on the mountaintop. You’re risen with Christ; seated together with Him, far above principalities and powers. Therefore, see from there. Live from there. It’s the best view. Hallelujah! From the mountaintop, you see things clearly. Your perspective is elevated. You’re above the distractions and limitations of the world. You see from a higher realm, the realm of the Spirit, where it’s only victory, strength, health, prosperity and unending progress. Ponder again what we read in Colossians 3:2, “Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.” Your thoughts, desires, focus and devotion should be directed towards heavenly realities, not earthly distractions. Align your mind with the heavenly perspective and live victoriously every day. PRAYERDear Father, I thank you for raising me up with Christ to live and see from the mountaintop. My affection is set on heavenly things, and my vision is clear and focused; I live above the distractions and limitations of this world, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDYEphesians 2:6 NIVAnd God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, Philippians 3:20 NIVBut our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, Hebrews 12:2Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of [our] faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanActs 20:17-38 & Job 22-24 2-Year Bible Reading PlanLuke 8:1-10 & Joshua 6 Extract From Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: My life is the revelation of the graces and realities of God’s Word! I live triumphantly over sickness, disease, Satan, and the systems of this world. I live the supernatural life; a life of victory, glory, peace, and dominion. I’ve passed from death to life, from sin to righteousness, and from sickness to health. There’s no death in my life, family, finances, business, or job because the One in me is greater. I am a life-giving spirit and everything I touch or connect to receives life. Christ’s glory is manifested in my body as I flourish in divine health every day of my life. I live above sickness and disease. My life is excellent and full of glory. I exercise my kingly authority today and always. This is my season for exaltation. That favour of God that brings promotion and power now rests upon me. I have been given great power, prosperity, and control. I am rightly positioned for all that the Lord has planned for me this year. God is happy to do me good. He delights in my prosperity, promotion, and my exaltation. I am wondrously and marvelously helped of God. I am enjoying life every day in divine health and prosperity; nothing is missing or lacking in me. I belong to God and I only express His virtues because I’ve been perfected for His glory. The glory that I see when I look into the mirror—the Word—is who I am. I affirm that good things are coming my way and happening for me and around me because the earth is full of the goodness of the Lord. I am continually strengthened with might in my inner man as the anointing of God’s Spirit runs through every fibre of my being, making me sickness and disease-free. I am not governed by luck or chance; rather, I walk in the path of victory, promotion, strength, health and excellence, as I navigate my way through life with God’s Word, to the praise and glory of His Name. My heart is flooded with light, and my life filled with brilliance and beauty in Jesus’ name. Amen. Speak in tongues.

Governor Sanwo-Olu Raises Alarm Over Rising Substance Abuse in Lagos and Nationwide

In a strong call to action, the Lagos State Government has expressed deep alarm over the worsening state of drug and substance abuse not only within the state but across Nigeria. This growing epidemic has prompted a renewed push for immediate and coordinated intervention. The Executive Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, made this urgent plea while addressing attendees at the Anti-Substance Abuse Programme (ASAP) Advocacy Stakeholders Conference. The high-profile event was organized by MTN Nigeria and held at the company’s headquarters located in Falomo, Lagos. During the event, the governor, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Barrister Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, described the crisis of drug abuse as a “malignant cancer” that is slowly eroding the very fabric of Nigerian society and jeopardizing the future of the nation. “It is deeply troubling to observe the increasing penetration of drug abuse among our youth, a menace now reaching even our most vulnerable—our children,” stated Salu-Hundeyin. She emphasized the gravity of the situation by stressing that young people are the foundation and energy of Nigeria’s future, questioning how any nation can advance when its next generation is battling the destructive grip of addiction. “Our youth are meant to be the pillars of a thriving nation. But how can any country prosper if the minds and ambitions of its young are being destroyed by the scourge of substance dependency?” she asked. Lagos Government’s Multi-Level Strategy Against Drug Abuse Barrister Salu-Hundeyin outlined that the Lagos State Government is not taking the threat lightly. A comprehensive strategy is being rolled out, featuring multiple pillars designed to combat the crisis from all angles. Some key initiatives include: She noted that prevention is the cornerstone of Lagos State’s response. “We are placing a strong emphasis on proactive and preventive strategies in our approach to combating drug abuse,” she said. Through the Lagos State Well-Being Programme, the government has introduced several proactive efforts, such as: These multi-dimensional steps, she affirmed, are all part of a broader commitment to safeguarding the state’s youth and future. Commendation for MTN Nigeria’s ASAP Initiative Salu-Hundeyin commended MTN Nigeria for stepping up to its corporate social responsibility through the launch and support of the ASAP initiative. She highlighted the programme’s focus on youth engagement, educator training, and consistent advocacy as a model for meaningful private sector involvement in social development. “MTN’s initiative demonstrates how a corporate entity can go beyond business goals to make a lasting impact on society,” she remarked. The Lagos State Government continues to encourage more private-public partnerships in the fight against drug abuse, especially in efforts targeting prevention, education, and rehabilitation.

EFCC Chairman Olukoyede Urges National Assembly to Pass Law Against Unexplained Wealth

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has made a strong appeal to the National Assembly (NASS), urging lawmakers to enact a law that criminalizes unexplained wealth in Nigeria. According to a statement released on Wednesday by EFCC’s spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, Olukoyede emphasized that such legislation is necessary to strengthen the country’s ongoing fight against economic and financial crimes, particularly public sector corruption and illicit enrichment. Speaking at the National Conference on Public Accounts and Fiscal Governance, jointly convened by the Public Accounts Committees of both the Senate and the House of Representatives, the EFCC boss criticized the absence of enforceable legislation targeting individuals who accumulate assets far beyond their legitimate income sources. “I want to make an appeal to you all, please, pass the bill on unexplained wealth. We need transparency in resource management. That’s all we need,” Olukoyede stated passionately. Lack of Law on Unexplained Wealth Encourages Corruption, Olukoyede Warns Olukoyede warned that the absence of a legal framework addressing unexplained wealth has provided fertile ground for corruption to flourish. He stressed that individuals living above their legitimate earnings must be held accountable, noting that when such conduct is ignored, it emboldens further misuse of public funds and illicit activities. He further connected mismanagement of public resources to worsening national security issues, stating that the misappropriation of public funds is a root cause of banditry, kidnapping, terrorism, and other security threats facing Nigeria. EFCC Calls for Global Cooperation on Asset Repatriation In addition to pushing for local legislation, Olukoyede also urged for stronger international cooperation in recovering stolen assets stashed abroad. He emphasized that countries or institutions that harbor stolen wealth are equally complicit in corruption and should be held accountable for enabling financial crime. “Custodians of stolen assets are as guilty as those that stole the assets,” he affirmed. Lawmakers Respond: Cost of Labour Must Be Reviewed to Fight Corruption Responding to the EFCC Chairman’s submission, the Chairman of the House Committee on Public Accounts, Honourable Bamidele Salaam, agreed that tackling corruption requires a holistic strategy. He pointed out that the review of workers’ remuneration is crucial in the battle against corruption. He argued that inadequate wages expose workers to temptation and make them more likely to accept bribes and indulge in other unethical practices. Hence, he recommended a full-scale review of the nation’s cost of labour as a necessary step toward achieving transparent and corruption-free governance.