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“Pastors Should Obey God, Not Politicians” – Apostle Johnson Suleman

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Among pastors of great flocks today, a select few emit the passion for giving. One of this very few is Apostle Johnson Suleman, the general overseer of Omega Fire Ministries Worldwide. Suleman is a perfect example of this tradition of old. It is always a moment of joy and fulfillment for members of his ministry and even strangers, the less privileged including widows, widowers and vulnerable children when he blesses them during his regular charity scheme. Of recent, Suleman had embarked on a wide range of aids to different categories of people, from the nameless to celebrities. The latest flow from Suleman’s milk of kindness was a donation of $7,000 (seven thousand dollars) cash he made to the New Day Youth And Family Services, Oklahoma during the Tulsa Raw Power Conference which took place two weeks ago.

In this interview, the firebrand preacher who will be having the next leg of his ministry’s Raw Power this week Tuesday in London, states candidly his views about his mission, the Church, men of God, and other issues of interest.

 

Excerpt…

 

Please share with us your mission in Ibadan. Was it just an evangelistic event or it included the process of training and outreach?

Our mission to Ibadan was like one of our Raw Power crusades that we have held in different cities in the country and different parts of the world from time to time. Actually, all our meetings are all encompassing and complete package of Ministry which include evangelistic events, process of training and outreaches and more.

Many committed Christians have never shared their faith because they don’t know how or they are afraid. Are your programmes planned towards preparing this category of believers for this?

Yes, of course. The programme is for all. We had such encounters before of people who only saw us from afar off to take decision of their lives. But when they drew closer, they discovered that they have actually missed a lot for the time they have stood aloof.

 

New believers naturally add vitality to congregational life and worship. What are the process being designed through your crusades to bring new believers into the ministry and how are they going to be encouraged in spiritual growth?

To start with, it is the Joy of every pastor to see that the coming in of new converts add vitality to congregational life and worship. The major aim of every meeting is to bring in new souls for the Lord. Apart from the general advertisement done, it is the Lord that saves souls as there is no salvation in any other name except the name of Jesus. As for the way to encourage the new believers in spiritual growth, sound teaching and proper discipline are involved. When this is done, they will turn out to do for the Lord what we are doing now.

 

Building a dream team defines what it truly means for the church to win. How does a Bible-believing church build God’s dream team?

What is a dream team for the Lord?  It’s a team that will do what the Lord commands and plan big for the Lord. Having a dream team for the Lord is the very ultimate for passing Christian Leadership batons to other generations. Jesus gave us a solid clue as to that effect in John Gospel 15:6 that “Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you”

Everyone being raised up by the Lord to form part of this great team will be brought up in the fear of God, empowered to teach others also as Apostle Paul carried his own out and said in 2Tim.2:2 that “And the things that you have heard me say among many witnesses, entrust these to faithful men who will be qualified to teach others as well.” If all these are done, passing Christianity to the next generation will not be a problem.

 

As a leading pastor you preach on various moral, ethical, and social issues from a biblical standpoint but you are cautious while expressing personal opinions on political issues. How much prerogative do pastors have to address these issues or there are written guidelines against speaking personally on politics?

In Nigeria as it were, it is very hard and difficult for people to place politics rightly without attaching evils to it. This is what brings pastors’ intervention and prerogative into the affairs. Actually, Pastors should not be a partisan to any political affairs of any party but we cannot fold our hands when things are going bad. Since the government of any nation belongs to God, divine affairs in it are necessary but some politicians are found most times to use pastors as cover despite the evils perpetrated. There should be a restrain from pastors so that God’s name is not dragged in disrepute and for future testimonies.

 

How can those in leadership set a high standard of godly behaviour and avoid representing evil?

Leadership in a godly way or in an evil way is a Personal issue, and it all depends on the lifestyle of every Individual. Whether we are looking at it from a Religious or secular perspective, no leader can set high standard of godly behaviour and avoid representing evil without having fear of God and good heart. So, the way out and the way forward for whoever wishes to lead well is to follow well and fear God.

 

Pastors regularly teach and minister to others from the pulpit. Those outside the pulpit, how effectively can they mentor, coach, instruct the people in the way of God?

The effectiveness in and of pastoral mentorship, coaching and instructing people in the way of the Lord depends on several factors around the person involved: How trained is the trainer? How mentored is the mentor? The Personal lifestyle of the coach because most times our attitude forms a better coaching style for the people. How close is the coach to God or how much of God he/she has? The type of heart possessed by the mentor. The dedication of the mentor and the mentee towards the mentorship, individual focus on the assignments and the right consideration of these factors, makes mentorship easy.

 

You are regularly inspired to give. How often are you moved to give?

We give when the need arises and when the Lord directs.

 

What do you perceive the condition of the Church to be today? Where is the Church doing well, and where do significant improvements need to be made?

The condition of the church today is good but not as it was in the time of old popularly known as the old time religion. There is no love, unity and one voice among the ministers and generally in the Body of Christ. Ministries oppress ministries with styles, pastors oppress pastors in disguise. Members oppress members with their lifestyle. All these are the end time signs. As for the area the church is doing well, the Lord is adding to the church daily and God is raising the end time army that will take the gospel far. The significant improvements needed are the areas where we are falling short as stated above. The church should return to love that is the greatest.

 

A pastor who wishes to balance church, marriage, family and God’s work, how accessible should he or she be?

Accessibility to pastors who wish to balance church ministry, marriage, family and God’s work is determined by the nature of his or her calling and his or her personal strength to receive people. Men and women of God can be very busy for the Lord and yet still be very accessible. This is occasioned by individual principles, the planning of time and schedule created.

 

What are the skills that help you the most in carrying out your pastoral assignment?

Every successful ministry should be founded on working godly principles such as, understanding God, understand yourself, understand your call or your assignments, understand the people you are pastoring and understand your environment.

 

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Business

Elite 18 global golfers honours Aare Adetola Emmanuelking with Nigeria’s first ever Noble Golfer award

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Elite 18 global golfers honours Aare Adetola Emmanuelking with Nigeria’s first ever Noble Golfer award

In a landmark celebration of sportsmanship, leadership, and vision, Aare Adetola Emmanuelking, the esteemed Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Adron Homes and Properties, has been honored with Nigeria’s inaugural Noble Golfer Award. This prestigious accolade was conferred upon him by the renowned Elite 18 Global Golfers during a high-profile event that brought together key figures from the sports, real estate, and business sectors.

The Noble Golfer Award recognizes individuals who have shown steadfast dedication to advancing the game of golf and promoting sports culture in their communities. Aare Emmanuelking’s nomination exemplifies his exceptional commitment to enriching the golfing landscape in Nigeria, alongside his broader initiatives aimed at fostering sports development across the nation.

Aare Emmanuelking is not merely a business leader; he is a pioneer in integrating golf into modern lifestyle experiences. Currently, he is leading the ambitious development of a state-of-the-art golf course in Nigeria a monumental project that aspires to redefine leisure, tourism, and sporting excellence within the country. This golf course aims to provide a premier playing experience while also serving as a social hub for golfing enthusiasts and the community at large.

In a bid to make golf more inclusive and accessible, Aare Emmanuelking has also initiated the construction of advanced golf driving ranges in all Adron Homes Estates across Nigeria. This visionary project is designed to encourage participation in the sport among Nigerians of all ages and backgrounds, fostering wellness, recreation, and community engagement as integral parts of Adron’s residential developments.

At the award presentation, Aare Emmanuelking conveyed his heartfelt gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing his belief in the transformative power of sports as a vehicle for national development and youth empowerment. He remarked, “Golf is not just a game; it exemplifies discipline, a distinct lifestyle, and a pursuit of excellence. Through Adron Homes, we are not merely constructing houses—we are nurturing communities built on the foundations of wellness, unity, and opportunity.”

The Elite 18 Global Golfers commended Aare Emmanuelking’s innovative approach, highlighting how he effectively merges real estate advancements with world-class sports infrastructure. They acknowledged that his efforts have the potential to inspire a new generation of golfers and to position Nigeria as a premier destination for international golfing events.

As Aare Adetola Emmanuelking continues to break new ground in both the real estate and sports development arenas, receiving this award serves as a testament to his lasting influence—not only in the realms of business but also in cultivating a legacy of excellence, one fairway at a time. His contributions are poised to create lasting change, inspiring future generations and fostering a vibrant culture of sport and community in Nigeria.

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WHO IS AFRAID OF FIDELITY BANK -By Udeme Etukeyen

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WHO IS AFRAID OF FIDELITY BANK -By Udeme Etukeyen

Leading up to the recent superlative annual reports showcasing one of the most significant growth experienced by a Nigeria Financial Institution in recent years I was forced to ask “what is Fidelity Bank” doing right?

My banking and financial sector experience got me digging deeper into the statistics of the report-Fidelity Bank recorded a substantial 210.0% growth in PBT, reaching N385.2 billion in FY 2024. Deposits increased by 47.9%, from N4.0 trillion in 2023FY to N5.9 trillion in 2024FY, Gross earnings shooting by 87.7% to N1,043.4 billion which was primarily caused by a 106.9% increase in interest and similar income. Was I impressed? Absolutely

Now to the scary part, they opened the year with a bang implying that 2025 year end results was going to be nothing but spectacular; check this out-Fidelity reported a whooping 167.8% increase in PBT (Profit Before Tax)to N105.8 billion in Q1 2025, compared to N39.5 billion in Q1 2024. Gross earnings from January to April had reached some N315.421 billion signaling a 64.21% increase year-on-year.

These results were nothing short of astonishing and with great hope I sat my team to review our Investment Strategy to accommodate taking up equities in Fidelity and advising our portfolio investors to do same.

We quickly appraised the fundamentals and Key Success Factors to include their focus on the strategic youth economy that the Creative and Digital Transformation sector promises, the banks bullish inroads in MSME promotion and financing, their glowing penchant for Gender inclusion without abandoning the core sectors of Mining, Renewables and other key industries

Then came the dissecting of Leadership, my team of analysts mostly female went on about Fidelity MD being one of the most experienced and affable Amazons in the industry; done this, achieved that and all the entreaties you’d expect from smart ladies who feel mentored from a distance. I didn’t hesitate to draw their attention to the experience of the menfolk within the organization like I had any measurable data to establish that mix…truth remains you can’t but admire the Banks Leadership and strides

A deeper look at the banks expansion globally could reveal a strategic and noiseless acquisition of Union Bank,London and their planned incursion into African and other European financial markets, you just can see that such daring strides and impact would give competition and detractors sleepless nights. Not in an era where sleeping pills are sold strictly by prescription and no thanks to the high cost of medication for peddlers of cheap propaganda

Within barely 30days of announcing such magnificent results little wonder how pundits would cook or spin a narrative to suggest a bank that has announced herself as First Tier with shoulders leveled up with other Banking giants would shudder over a judgement against her customer G.Cappa or even the contribution they would be required to cough out over that said Sagecom saga. With that judgement not going the way of pundits a contemptuous attempt at calculating interest at unclassified rates from an initial N14b to cause an unnecessary scare or negative press on the bank speaks volumes of how we unrepentantly strive to destroy value in our economy.

One would think that interpretation of the judgment and computation of due figures which will understandably come with a payment plan be awaited instead of the usual bad blood generated and envisaged by toddler media characters.

It is not in doubt that the discerning public sees through the cruise and flat falling attempt of dramatic clout chasers ever ready to stain Fidelity’s white apparel which savvy Investors and analysts are filled with bridal admiration

Like Joseph Campbell hinted in his famous quote “The cave you fear to enter holds the treasure you seek.” We cast our treasures and bets on Fidelity Bank as the Nigerian treasure house to beat in the years ahead!

*Udeme Etukeyen is an Abuja based Pan African Investment Advisory Expert*

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Business

Jemras Homes Unveils Treasure Mall in Lekki with a Star-Studded Grand Opening Ceremony

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Jemras Homes Unveils Treasure Mall in Lekki with a Star-Studded Grand Opening Ceremony

Jemras Homes, one of Lagos’ fastest-growing real estate firms, held a vibrant and star-studded grand opening of its debut commercial property, Treasure Mall, on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at Abijo GRA, Lekki-Ajah.

The colourful ceremony brought together top political figures, industry leaders, celebrities, and business stakeholders to celebrate the launch of this landmark development.

The event was graced by notable personalities, including Hon. Moshood Aro, member of the Lagos State House of Assembly; Hon. Fatiu Salisu, the immediate past Chairman of Ijede LCDA; and veteran actor and brand ambassador of Jemras Homes, Alhaji Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo.

While addressing the press, Ogogo shared his deep connection with the brand “My relationship with Jemras Homes goes beyond mere brand representation — it’s a partnership rooted in trust, shared values, and a commitment to excellence. I believe in what the company stands for and the vision it’s bringing to life in the Nigerian real estate space.”

The Founder of Jemras Homes, Mr. Tayo Razaq, also delivered a heartfelt speech during the event, describing the company’s mission and the long-term value Treasure Mall offers “Treasure Mall is more than a building — it is a statement of our dedication to quality, innovation, and strategic investment. We are creating not just spaces, but opportunities that empower businesses and elevate communities.”

The grand opening was a lively affair, complete with music, entertainment, and testimonials from satisfied clients and partners who praised the transparency, quality, and professionalism of Jemras Homes. The atmosphere reflected the company’s growing reputation for delivering smart and stylish real estate developments.

Treasure Mall is a 1,350-square-meter, three-floor commercial complex offering business spaces ranging from 25 to 110 square meters. Located in the heart of Lekki’s flourishing Abijo GRA, it features ample parking, 24/7 security, and cutting-edge infrastructure — ideal for retail outlets, cafés, restaurants, and office spaces.

Strategically positioned near landmarks such as Lagos Business School, Novare Mall, and over 15 private estates, Treasure Mall also shares a boundary with the soon-to-be-completed Treasure 2 Residence — adding significant residential appeal to the area.

With this successful launch, Jemras Homes has not only unveiled a premium commercial destination but also reinforced its position as a visionary leader in Nigeria’s real estate sector.
[5/16, 8:41 AM] Peace: Pix

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