Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD Then this Daniel was preferred above the presidents and princes, because an excellent spirit was in him… (Daniel 6:3). In the Kingdom of God, excellence is our culture. We don’t strive for excellence; we do excellent things. Excellence is the nature of the Father, and because we’re born of Him, we express that same nature in everything we do. Excellence distinguishes you; it positions you above mediocrity and gives you the advantage that skills alone can’t give you. Daniel’s elevation above his peers wasn’t based on mere skills, politics or connections; it was the spirit of excellence in him: “Then this Daniel was preferred above the presidents and princes, because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king thought to set him over the whole realm” (Daniel 6:3). That same spirit is in you because the Holy Spirit lives in you. Excellence is about character, consistency, and distinction in your work and attitude. God didn’t call you to be average; He anointed you to shine, to show forth His glory: “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light” (1 Peter 2:9). 2 Peter 1:3 says, “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.” You were called to glory and virtue; virtue means excellence. So, whether in ministry, business, academics, or in your daily life; manifest excellence. Let it reflect in your vision, speech, appearance, the way you execute tasks, and in your punctuality. Manifest precision, diligence, and distinction. Don’t excuse mediocrity. Excel. Give your best, not because men are watching, but because you represent the Kingdom. You’re the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus, and excellence is part of righteousness. Every task is an opportunity to express that divine excellence. Therefore, be detailed, diligent, dependable, and exceptional. PRAYERDear Father, thank you for the spirit of excellence working in me by the Holy Ghost. I function in precision, diligence, and distinction. I represent your Kingdom accurately and gloriously. My life and work are expressions of your excellence. I refuse to settle for average, for greater is He that is in me than he that’s in the world. Amen. FURTHER STUDYProverbs 22:29 KJVSeest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men. Philippians 1:9-10 KJVAnd this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; 10 That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ; Daniel 6:3 AMPCThen this Daniel was distinguished above the presidents and the satraps because an excellent spirit was in him, and the king thought to set him over the whole realm. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanRevelation 9 & Jonah 1-4 2-Year Bible Reading PlanJohn 21:13-25 & 2 Chronicles 31 DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: The life of God defines who I am. I carry His presence, His power, and His nature within me. I am sustained by divine life, not by external conditions or human systems. I function from an inexhaustible source, continually supplied with wisdom, strength, and grace. My life is anchored in Christ, and because He lives in me, I am fully equipped for excellence, victory, and purpose in every season. I function from divine fullness. The power of Christ within me fuels my progress, sharpens my vision, and strengthens my resolve. I move through life with confidence, knowing that I am empowered from within to overcome challenges and fulfill destiny. The greater One lives in me, energizing my spirit, directing my steps, and producing visible results of glory, stability, and triumph in all that concerns me. Christ is my all. I am complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power. There is no lack in my life. I am full of ideas, inspiration, wisdom, wealth, prosperity, and every blessing of the Kingdom. Out of this abundance, I impact my world with righteousness, excellence, and grace. I have been perfected through my union with Christ Jesus, created for good works, and predestined for the good life. There is nothing wrong in my body; I have everything required for an excellent life. In Christ, I have received the life of glory, honour, and excellence—a life where sickness, disease, infirmity, and death have no place. As the Father has life in Himself, so has He given the Son to have life in Himself, and I have the Son; therefore, I have life. My body expresses God’s glory and beauty. My body is God’s temple, and I steward this divine life with faith and confidence. I am Spirit-ruled and Word-governed. I see through the Word, understand by the Word, and renew my mind with the Word. God’s Word shapes my values, ideas, opinions, choices, and decisions. My life blossoms in righteousness, wisdom, and glory beyond imagination. I live in health, prosperity, victory, and excellence. All my needs are met in Christ Jesus. Satan has nothing in me because I am full of the Spirit. My words align with God’s perfect will and direction. I walk daily in divine health, peace, abundance, dominion, and success, seated with Christ far above all powers, in Jesus’ mighty and matchless name. Amen. Speak in tongues.
Chelsea booked their place in the semi-finals of the 2025 Carabao Cup following a hard-fought 3-1 victory against Cardiff City on Tuesday evening. The London club faced a resilient Welsh side but managed to advance after a display of determination and tactical adjustments. Head coach Enzo Maresca opted for a heavily-rotated starting lineup, introducing several squad players in place of the regular starters. Despite this, Chelsea struggled to assert full control during the first half, with Cardiff City holding their ground and creating sporadic attacking opportunities. The breakthrough came in the second half when substitute Alejandro Garnacho showcased his composure and technical ability by slotting the ball neatly into the corner of the net. His decisive finish helped Chelsea gain the upper hand and set the stage for the remaining goals. Chelsea’s progression into the semi-finals highlights the squad’s depth and resilience, emphasizing their ability to perform even when key players are rested. Fans will now eagerly anticipate the next round, where the competition intensifies, and the Blues will aim to continue their quest for silverware. This victory also reinforces Chelsea’s strong domestic form and signals their intent to compete on multiple fronts this season. Cardiff City, while disappointed, can take encouragement from their spirited performance against a Premier League giant, demonstrating that determination and tactical discipline can challenge top-tier teams.
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Chelsea manager, Enzo Maresca, has confirmed a significant injury setback for the club ahead of their upcoming Premier League encounter with Newcastle United. The Blues will have to navigate the game without one of their crucial players, Estevao, who has unfortunately sustained a muscle injury. Maresca revealed that Estevao will be unavailable for the weekend fixture, emphasizing the impact of the Brazilian’s absence on Chelsea’s squad rotation. The midfielder, who had been recently integrated into the first team, was only introduced during the second half of the recent clash against Everton. His contribution, although brief, had shown promise and tactical versatility. The absence of Estevao comes at a challenging time for Chelsea, as the team aims to maintain momentum in both domestic and cup competitions. Estevao was notably missing from the squad that secured a 3-1 victory against Cardiff City in the Carabao Cup quarter-final on Tuesday night, further highlighting the severity of the muscle injury. Chelsea’s medical team is expected to provide further updates on Estevao’s recovery timeline, which will be crucial for Maresca as he plans his squad strategy for upcoming fixtures. The club will need to adjust its midfield options and possibly rely on other key performers to fill the gap left by the Brazilian international. Fans and pundits alike are closely monitoring the situation, as Estevao’s absence could influence Chelsea’s performance against a competitive Newcastle side, who are eager to capitalize on any potential weakness. Maresca’s tactical adjustments and squad management will therefore be under significant scrutiny ahead of the high-stakes Premier League clash. This injury blow also raises questions about Chelsea’s depth and adaptability in key positions, which could be decisive in both league standings and cup runs. With Estevao sidelined, the focus now shifts to maintaining team cohesion and ensuring that the Blues can secure a positive result despite the setback. Chelsea supporters will undoubtedly hope for a swift recovery for Estevao, who has shown glimpses of being an essential asset in Maresca’s squad. As the Premier League weekend approaches, all eyes will be on the Blues’ lineup and tactical execution to overcome this injury challenge and continue their pursuit of domestic success.
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The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is finally here, and the excitement across the continent is palpable. Football enthusiasts, analysts, and fans worldwide are gearing up for an electrifying tournament that promises to showcase the immense talent of Africa’s finest players. This year, Morocco plays host to the prestigious event, beginning this Sunday, and anticipation is already at its peak. African players currently excelling in leagues across Europe, Asia, and beyond have begun reporting to their respective national teams’ training camps in preparation for AFCON 2025. With some of the continent’s brightest stars set to take center stage, the tournament promises unforgettable moments, historic performances, and potential breakthroughs for emerging talents. African Stars to Keep an Eye On As teams assemble for the competition, several players stand out as potential game-changers who could lead their nations to victory. These players are not only known for their skill but also for their consistency and leadership on the field. These players, among others, could very well define the outcomes of matches and influence the paths their national teams take toward the final. Football fans are advised to watch every game closely as new talents could emerge and surprise the football world. Rising Talents to Watch Apart from established stars, AFCON 2025 also offers a platform for emerging African talents to showcase their abilities on the international stage. Players from local leagues and lesser-known clubs are expected to make headlines with their performances, potentially attracting the attention of top European clubs. AFCON 2025: What to Expect With Morocco hosting, fans can anticipate high-quality matches, passionate crowds, and memorable moments. Analysts predict intense battles between North African teams, including Algeria, Tunisia, and Egypt, as well as powerhouse West African nations like Nigeria, Senegal, and Ghana. The tournament promises to be a mix of experienced players and exciting newcomers, all eager to claim continental glory.
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American rapper and actor Clifford Joseph Harris, Jr., widely known by his stage name T.I., recently opened up about his personal spiritual beliefs and why he chooses not to attend church services, despite identifying as a Christian. The Atlanta-born artist, recognized for his contributions to hip-hop and the entertainment industry, shared that he was brought up in a devout Christian home. From an early age, he was immersed in the values, teachings, and traditions of Christianity, which instilled in him a strong faith in God. However, T.I. emphasized that while he deeply believes in the presence and “realness” of God in his life, he does not feel aligned with the structure or practices of organized church institutions. According to him, many churches today operate similarly to businesses, focusing on revenue, hierarchy, and growth metrics rather than purely on spiritual guidance and nurturing genuine faith. The rapper’s reflections highlight a growing sentiment among some believers who maintain a personal connection with their faith but struggle to relate to formal church environments. He believes that true spirituality transcends rituals and attendance, residing instead in the authenticity of one’s relationship with God. T.I.’s perspective also invites broader discussions about the role of churches in modern society and how spiritual experiences are increasingly becoming individualized. While he does not attend church regularly, he continues to practice his faith privately and encourages others to seek a sincere connection with their beliefs outside traditional institutional frameworks. This candid revelation from T.I. resonates with many who question conventional religious practices while still holding personal convictions. His statements reflect a nuanced understanding of faith, spirituality, and the challenges of reconciling belief systems with institutional expectations.
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A tragic road incident has resulted in the loss of one life, while another individual was left with serious injuries following a lone motorcycle crash in Osun State. The unfortunate event took place on Tuesday night in the Jagilegbo community of Ifetedo, a town located within Osun State. Reports confirmed that the accident involved only a motorcycle, with no other vehicle implicated in the incident. According to details contained in a First Incident Report, the crash occurred at approximately 9:45 p.m. along the township road within the area. The report was officially issued by Agnes Ogungbemi, who serves as the spokesperson responsible for documenting and communicating such incidents. Preliminary findings indicate that the motorcycle was traveling along the route when the fatal accident happened, leading to the immediate death of one occupant. Another person involved in the crash survived but sustained varying degrees of injuries and required urgent medical attention. While authorities have not released additional specifics surrounding the cause of the crash, lone motorcycle accidents are often linked to factors such as poor road visibility at night, excessive speed, mechanical faults, or loss of control. Investigations are expected to provide further clarity as officials continue assessments of the scene and circumstances. Residents of the Jagilegbo area expressed concern over recurring nighttime accidents along the township route, calling for increased road safety awareness and preventive measures to reduce similar occurrences in the future. Road safety agencies continue to urge motorcycle users to adopt protective measures, obey traffic regulations, and avoid night travel where visibility is limited, as such precautions can significantly reduce fatal outcomes.
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Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has explained the reason he chose not to back the presidential ambition of his former Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, during the buildup to the 2023 general elections. According to revelations contained in a recently published biography, Buhari withheld his support because he did not have a personal relationship or close familiarity with Osinbajo throughout their years in government. The disclosure is documented in From Soldier to Statesman: The Legacy of Muhammadu Buhari, a biography written by Dr. Charles Omole. In the book, Buhari is quoted as stating that he never truly knew Osinbajo on a personal level, despite serving together for two terms in office. Buhari reportedly explained that his first real connection to Osinbajo came through Nigeria’s current President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Osinbajo was introduced to him by Tinubu before the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) government in 2015. This distance, according to the former president’s account, played a major role in his decision not to publicly endorse Osinbajo when the former Vice President declared his intention to contest for the highest office in the country. The revelation has sparked renewed public debate about political loyalty, succession planning, and internal party dynamics within the APC. Many Nigerians had expected Buhari to rally behind his deputy, considering their long years of joint leadership. However, the former president’s explanation suggests that political proximity does not always translate into personal trust or endorsement. Osinbajo eventually lost the APC presidential primary, while Bola Tinubu emerged as the party’s flag bearer and later won the presidential election. This account adds a new layer to Nigeria’s political history, shedding light on behind-the-scenes relationships that influenced major decisions during a critical transition period.
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu held a closed-door meeting on Tuesday night with the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in an effort to prevent a planned nationwide protest. The engagement took place at the State House in Abuja and was aimed at addressing the concerns raised by organised labour ahead of the protest scheduled to begin today. The President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Joe Ajaero, led other labour leaders to the meeting, representing workers across the country. The discussions were part of last-minute efforts by the federal government to calm tensions and find common ground with labour unions. The planned protest had raised concerns nationwide, especially regarding its potential impact on economic activities and public order. By meeting directly with labour representatives, the presidency signaled its willingness to engage in dialogue rather than confrontation. Although details of the meeting were not immediately made public, the talks were widely viewed as a strategic move to persuade labour leaders to reconsider the planned action. The outcome of the meeting was expected to influence whether the protest would proceed as scheduled. Joe Ajaero, speaking on behalf of the labour movement, emphasized the importance of protecting workers’ interests while maintaining open communication with the federal government. The presence of top labour officials underscored the seriousness of the issues under discussion. The meeting marked another critical moment in the ongoing relationship between the Tinubu administration and organised labour, as both sides navigate economic reforms and their effects on Nigerian workers. As Nigerians awaited further updates, attention remained focused on whether the dialogue would lead to a suspension of the protest or pave the way for continued negotiations.
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The Zamfara State Government has officially approved the appointment of a new Vice-Chancellor for Zamfara State University, Talata Mafara (ZAMSUT). The approval was granted by the state governor, Dauda Lawal, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen leadership and academic administration within the institution. Professor Ibrahim Abdullahi Tsafe has been selected to assume the role of Vice-Chancellor of the university. His appointment is scheduled to run for a single tenure of five years, in line with the university’s statutory regulations governing top academic leadership positions. According to the announcement, the decision to appoint Professor Tsafe did not come arbitrarily. It followed a structured and transparent process initiated by the Governing Council of Zamfara State University, which evaluated candidates and submitted formal recommendations for consideration. The Secretary to the Zamfara State Government, Abubakar Mohammad Nakwada, made this known while confirming the governor’s approval. He explained that the appointment was finalized after careful review of the Governing Council’s recommendations, reflecting adherence to due process and institutional guidelines. The appointment is expected to contribute positively to the university’s academic growth, administrative stability, and overall development. With a full five-year term ahead, the new Vice-Chancellor is positioned to implement policies and strategies aimed at improving academic standards, research output, and institutional governance at ZAMSUT. Zamfara State University, located in Talata Mafara, remains a key institution in the state’s educational framework, and leadership decisions such as this are considered vital to sustaining its long-term vision and objectives.
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Renowned human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mr. Femi Falana, has urged Nigerians to take a more active role in exposing both private individuals and public office holders who violate the provisions of the Anti-Torture Act of 2017. Falana emphasized that the law clearly outlines consequences for acts of torture and abuse, stressing that accountability must not be selective. According to him, citizens have a responsibility to speak up whenever violations occur, regardless of the status or influence of those involved. In a formal letter addressed to the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, Falana demanded urgent legal action against security personnel accused of grave misconduct. He specifically called for the immediate re-arrest and prosecution of 10 soldiers allegedly involved in the killing of three police officers in Taraba State. The senior lawyer maintained that failure to act decisively on such cases undermines public confidence in the justice system and weakens the rule of law. He noted that the seriousness of the allegations requires transparent investigation and prosecution in line with existing laws. Beyond the issue involving the soldiers, Falana also drew attention to a much broader concern relating to national security. He called on the Attorney-General to revisit and revive the prosecution of approximately 400 individuals accused of financing terrorism, whose cases were reportedly abandoned during the previous administration. According to Falana, allowing such cases to remain unresolved poses a significant threat to national stability. He argued that terrorism financing is a critical issue that must be addressed with urgency, as it directly fuels insecurity across the country. He further stressed that justice should not be delayed or denied due to political transitions or administrative changes. In his view, continuity in the prosecution of serious criminal cases is essential to demonstrate the government’s commitment to fighting impunity and upholding the law. Falana concluded by reaffirming that the enforcement of the Anti-Torture Act and the prosecution of terrorism-related cases are not optional duties but constitutional obligations. He insisted that decisive action in these matters would strengthen democratic institutions and restore public trust in Nigeria’s justice system.
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A number of influential figures linked to Nigeria’s weakened opposition bloc have released a joint statement expressing serious concerns about the current political direction of the country. According to them, the administration led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is allegedly steering Nigeria toward a political system dominated by a single ruling party. These opposition voices argue that the federal government is accused of fostering an environment where political plurality is under threat. Central to their claim is the role of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which they allege has been repurposed as a political instrument rather than functioning as an independent anti-corruption agency. The critics assert that the EFCC is being used to apply pressure on opposition politicians, particularly sitting and former governors. They believe that several of these political figures are allegedly compelled to abandon their political platforms and align with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in order to avoid legal scrutiny. According to the statement, politicians who resist such realignment are said to face heightened risks of investigation or prosecution for alleged financial misconduct. The opposition leaders contend that this pattern creates fear within the political space and undermines democratic competition. They further claim that this perception of selective enforcement by the EFCC is not limited to politicians alone but is widely shared among ordinary Nigerians. In their view, the belief that the anti-graft agency operates with political bias has gained traction across the country, raising questions about institutional independence and democratic accountability. The statement concludes by warning that if unchecked, such developments could weaken Nigeria’s democratic foundations and erode public confidence in governance, law enforcement, and the rule of law.
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A court in France has delivered a 30-year prison sentence to a former rebel commander and political figure from the Democratic Republic of Congo after determining his involvement in crimes against humanity committed more than twenty years ago. The ruling follows a detailed judicial process that examined events linked to one of Africa’s most violent conflicts. The court found that the former rebel leader played a complicit role in serious human rights violations during a prolonged period of armed unrest that deeply affected central Africa. The individual, identified as Roger Lumbala, once led an armed rebel faction that received backing from neighboring Uganda. His group was active during a devastating chapter in Congolese history commonly referred to as the Second Congo War. This conflict, which erupted in the late 1990s, resulted in widespread civilian suffering, large-scale displacement, and the loss of millions of lives. According to the court’s findings, the rebel movement under Lumbala’s leadership was linked to acts that met the legal definition of crimes against humanity. These actions reportedly included grave abuses against civilians, carried out during military operations in areas affected by the conflict. The French judiciary concluded that his role, although indirect, was significant enough to warrant criminal responsibility. The case highlights France’s use of universal jurisdiction laws, which allow national courts to prosecute individuals accused of the most serious international crimes, even when those crimes were committed outside French territory. This legal principle has increasingly been used in Europe to address historical atrocities when domestic justice systems in affected countries are unable or unwilling to act. Observers note that the sentencing sends a strong message about accountability, particularly for political and military leaders involved in past conflicts. It also reinforces the growing international effort to combat impunity for crimes against humanity, regardless of how much time has passed. The Second Congo War remains one of the deadliest conflicts in modern history, involving multiple armed groups and foreign actors. While the conflict officially ended years ago, its legal and moral consequences continue to unfold through cases such as this, as courts seek to deliver justice for victims long after the violence has subsided.
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The Lagos State Police Command has taken into custody a young social media personality identified as Habeeb Hamzat, widely known online as Peller, following allegations linked to an attempted self-harm incident and dangerous driving behavior within Lagos State. According to available information, the 20-year-old influencer was arrested after a video circulated widely across social platforms on Sunday, December 14, 2025. The footage reportedly captured the suspect operating a vehicle in a highly unsafe manner along a public roadway while simultaneously broadcasting the act live to online viewers. Authorities disclosed that the reckless driving episode resulted in a serious traffic crash. The incident allegedly placed the life of the suspect at risk, while also endangering other motorists and pedestrians who were using the road at the time. Law enforcement officials emphasized that such conduct poses significant threats to public safety, especially when carried out on busy urban roads. Police sources further indicated that the live-streamed video played a key role in prompting swift action from the command, as it provided visual evidence of behavior considered hazardous and unlawful. Following the crash, officers moved to apprehend the influencer for questioning and further investigation. The Lagos State Police Command reiterated its commitment to enforcing traffic regulations and maintaining safety on public roads. Officials also warned against the misuse of social media platforms to promote or engage in acts that could lead to injury, loss of life, or widespread harm. As investigations continue, the suspect remains in police custody, while authorities assess the full circumstances surrounding the incident, including the alleged suicide attempt and the extent of damage caused by the crash.
