Rainoil Lauds Hymnodia, Celebrates Season 1 Finalists in Grand Style
Rainoil Limited, the integrated downstream oil and gas company, has commended Hymnodia for reigniting the almost-forgotten hymn culture among young Nigerians, as it celebrated the five finalists of the popular reality television show.
Hymnodia, which climaxed its first season last April witnessed four other hymntestants (contestants) demonstrate strong resolve to outwit themselves in a keenly contested grand finale dubbed the Hymncert with Kenneth Ekhuemelo, the bassofundo, adjudged the winner and first custodian of the ASAPH.
The other hymntestants who made it to the grand final of the 14-week show were Olumide Dada, the baritone singer and first runner-up, Mobolanle Oladimeji, the architect-baker-hymn writer who came third, Abigael Nnadi and Rachael Darley. Five of them were hosted to a special reception and dinner at Parkview Astoria Hotel, Ikoyi, Lagos, on Thursday, July 18, 2019.
The reception/dinner turned out to be a reunion of some sort with nine of the 12 hymntestants of the Hymnodia Season 1 present at the event and taking turns to regale the audience with tales from the Hymnstitute and reminder hymns from their time in the show.
The Group Executive Director, Rainoil Limited, Mrs. Godrey Ogbechie said Philosoville Limited, the initiators of Hymnodia, have successfully demonstrated that a reality TV show on hymns and church music could be well structured and produced to the admiration of a wide-ranging audience. She noted that Hymnodia has created the desired impact which could change the perception of young Nigerians in the art of worship.
“Hymnodia has promoted the culture of hymns which gives in-depth knowledge and understanding to hymns, which are not fashionable among young Nigerians. Hymnodia has captured the interest of Christians and its worth celebrating for redefining hymns which inspire and inculcate ethical values. I believe we should be able to sing hymns everyday of our lives, and this has been reinforced through Hymnodia,” she said.
The Rainoil boss therefore urged the initiator to continue in the same stride which made Season1 successful, as interest for the show has heightened. She invited other corporate organisations to support the show while pledging further backing for the programme going forward.
According to her “all the twelve hymntestants took hymns rendition to new dimensions throughout the competition which is worth emulating by young Nigerians. I commend the five finalists for making it to the final out of such an intense talent pool. The excitement and potential that Hymnodia has ignited in the worship of God is enormous and deserves to be supported”.
While applauding Rainoil for the reception, the initiator of Hymnodia and Managing Director of Philosoville Limited, Kufre Ekanem commended the five finalists and the collective efforts of all the hymntestants which led to the creation of 62 new hymns in the course of Season 1. He urged the hymntestants to utilise their talents for gainful purposes to justify the enormous investments made to groom them while at the Hymnstitute.
Ekanem praised the goodwill shown by Rainoil in hosting the reception/dinner and disclosed that though Hymnodia Season 1 may have ended, the hymn rebirth journey still continues between the seasons. He promised an even better dimension of Triple-E benefits (entertainment, education and edification) in Season 2 and thereafter.
Ekhuemelo, the winner of Season 1, said the reception has helped to reunite the hymntestants after the show. As first recipient of the ASAPH, a trophy specially designed and named after King David’s chief musician, Ekhuemelo disclosed that after Hymnodia Season 1, he has been more engaged in writing hymns which would soon be recorded and released.
Hymnodia, the fast-growing reality programme created around hymns and worship, commenced last December 30 with a flash mob flag-off and a triple-E (entertainment, education and edification) promise that lasted through weekly performance shows on hymns till the grand finale, the Hymncert, which held at the Shell Hall of MUSON Centre, Lagos on April 24, 2019.
Hymnodia was broadcast on 10 television channels across the country with a dedicated YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/hymnodiahq), which remains available. Recently, the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria endorsed Hymnodia, and wished it many more life impacting seasons.
Ukrainian boxing sensation Oleksandr Usyk retained his heavyweight championship titles and cemented his place in boxing history with a unanimous decision victory over Britain’s Tyson Fury in their rematch on Saturday night.
The judges scored the bout 116-112 in Usyk’s favor across the board, marking his second consecutive win over Fury. This victory extended Usyk’s flawless professional record to 23-0, with 14 knockouts, adding another chapter to a career already highlighted by Olympic gold and an undisputed cruiserweight championship.
A Masterclass Performance
Usyk, 37, showcased his signature precision and relentless pace, repeatedly catching Fury with clean left hooks and dominating the latter stages of the fight. Fury, at 6ft 9in (206cm) and weighing a career-high 281 pounds, attempted to impose his physicality but was unable to break Usyk’s composure.
The fight, held in Saudi Arabia, saw Usyk wearing traditional Cossack attire during his entrance, while Fury entered the arena dressed in a festive Santa-inspired robe to Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You.”
The early rounds were competitive, with Fury landing powerful jabs and body shots. However, Usyk’s endurance and tactical brilliance began to shine in the middle rounds. The Ukrainian landed sharp combinations and dictated the tempo, including a stunning uppercut in the final round that left little doubt about the outcome.
“I thought I’ve won both fights,” Fury said post-match, sporting a bruised right eye. “But I’ll always believe until the day I die that I won that fight.”
A Legacy Sealed
Usyk’s victory solidified his standing as one of the greatest heavyweights in history. Already the first undisputed heavyweight of the four-belt era, Usyk joins the ranks of legends like Muhammad Ali, Joe Louis, and Mike Tyson.
The bout, reported to have a prize purse of $190 million, also underscored Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in global sports. Usyk, who served briefly as a soldier during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, celebrated his victory by hoisting a symbolic sabre belonging to Ukrainian nationalist hero Ivan Mazepa.
Fury’s Uncertain Future
The defeat leaves Fury’s future in doubt. Once unbeaten across 35 fights, Fury now stands at 34-2-1. His attempt to reclaim glory after a brief retirement in 2022 has been marred by back-to-back losses to Usyk.
Usyk, on the other hand, continues to add to his already remarkable resume, leaving fans and critics alike in awe of his technical skill, resilience, and determination. As the heavyweight division looks ahead, Usyk’s reign appears unshakable, and his place among boxing’s all-time greats is firmly secured.
Testimony Jaga Redefines Gospel Music with Fuji Rhapsody
Renowned gospel artist Testimony Jaga has set a new standard in the genre with the release of his highly anticipated album, Fuji Rhapsody. This innovative project masterfully blends the electrifying rhythms of Fuji music with uplifting gospel messages, offering a unique and transformative musical experience.
With a runtime of approximately one hour, Fuji Rhapsody takes listeners on a continuous, spiritually enriching journey, brimming with energy and inspiration. The album is available for streaming on popular platforms, including Spotify, iTunes, Audiomack, Boomplay, and more.
Whether you’re a fan of vibrant Fuji beats or seeking soul-stirring gospel tunes, Fuji Rhapsody is an album that promises to inspire and uplift. Press play and let its powerful melodies rejuvenate your spirit today!
His Excellency Governor Monday Okpebholo C.O.N Celebrates His Grace, Bishop Desmond Osazuwa, on His Birthday – December 21
The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo C.O.N., has extended warm birthday wishes to His Grace, Bishop Desmond Osazuwa Amasihohu, in recognition of his remarkable contributions to the state and his unwavering support during the Governor’s electoral victory.
In a heartfelt message, Governor Okpebholo expressed his profound admiration for Bishop Amasihohu, acknowledging his steadfast leadership, spiritual guidance, and commitment to the well-being of the people of Edo State.
“I am delighted to celebrate Bishop Desmond Osazuwa on his special day,” the Governor stated. “His tireless prayers and invaluable support during my election campaign played a significant role in our collective success. His dedication to the spiritual and physical growth of Edo State is a testament to his purposeful leadership and unwavering faith.”
Reflecting on the Bishop’s years of service, the Governor added, “On behalf of my family and the entire Edo State, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Bishop Desmond Amasihohu on his birthday. He is a true son of Edo, whose contributions continue to enrich our lives. Today, we celebrate not just his birthday but also his enduring impact on our state and beyond.”
Governor Okpebholo emphasized the importance of honoring individuals who dedicate their lives to service. “Recognizing Bishop Desmond Osazuwa aligns with our shared values of inclusivity, unity, and gratitude. His contributions to the spiritual and social fabric of Edo State are invaluable, and we are truly blessed to have him among us.”
Bishop Desmond Osazuwa Amasihohu has spent decades spreading the gospel and transforming lives both within Edo State and across the globe. His birthday celebration drew dignitaries, community leaders, and well-wishers who gathered to honor his life and legacy.
The occasion stands as a powerful reminder of the values of faith, service, and unity that guide the Governor’s vision for a stronger Edo State.
“Happy birthday, my Bishop,” Governor Okpebholo concluded. “Your wisdom and contributions to the development of our state are deeply appreciated. May the Lord Almighty bless you with good health, strength, and continued prosperity.”
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