society
Seizing the Moment: Transformative Power of Embracing Opportunities
Seizing the Moment: Transformative Power of Embracing Opportunities.
By George Omagbemi Sylvester
In the intricate tapestry of life, opportunities often present themselves subtly, sometimes cloaked in challenges or disguised as fleeting moments. Recognizing and embracing these moments can be the catalyst for profound personal and communal transformation. As the adage goes, “When life offers you an opportunity, always be in a test of it as such may never come again.” This sentiment underscores the urgency and significance of acting decisively when chance aligns with readiness.
The Imperative of Action
Opportunities are not merely serendipitous events; they are calls to action. They demand not only recognition but also a proactive response. In today’s world, where timing can determine the difference between success and stagnation, one must be vigilant and responsive. Professor PLO Lumumba, a renowned Kenyan legal scholar and anti-corruption crusader emphasizes this principle with characteristic clarity. He asserts, “Success is failure turned inside out. If you want to graduate from a ‘Johnny nobody’ to a big ‘Kahuna,’ you must obey the divine order to subdue the earth and have dominion over it; otherwise, the earth will subdue you and have dominion over you.”
This powerful assertion highlights the necessity of seizing control of one’s destiny through active engagement with the opportunities that life offers. Indecision, apathy or fear of failure can result in being overrun by the very circumstances we were meant to master. Thus, action is not optional, but imperative.
Opportunities as Catalysts for Positive Impact
While opportunity often signals the potential for personal growth, its true power lies in its capacity to foster transformation beyond the self. Embracing opportunities can pave the way for meaningful change in families, communities and nations. Pastor Joel Osteen, a prominent American preacher and author, echoes this broader perspective. He observes, “When God puts love and compassion in your heart toward someone, HE’s offering you an opportunity to make a difference in that person’s life. We must learn to follow that love. Don’t ignore it. Act on it. Somebody needs what you have.”
Osteen’s insight reminds us that our talents, time and attention are resources entrusted to us for service. An opportunity to help, mentor or uplift another should never be dismissed. In these acts of benevolence lie the seeds of social transformation. Whether it is speaking up for the voiceless, offering a helping hand or mentoring the next generation, each action taken in response to an opportunity strengthens the fabric of society.
The Interplay Between Opportunity and Challenge
One of the most perplexing yet profound truths about opportunity is that it often emerges intertwined with challenge. Few opportunities arrive gift-wrapped and without difficulty. This duality is eloquently captured by Mufti Ismail Menk, a respected Islamic scholar, who advises, “This life is short. Make it a point to touch lives and hearts whenever you get the opportunity. Give, forgive and apologise.”
His words reinforce the idea that even in the face of hardship or discomfort, there lies an embedded chance to act rightly, grow spiritually and connect deeply with others. Indeed, some of life’s greatest breakthroughs come not from moments of ease, but from how we respond to adversity. The wisdom lies in identifying the opportunity hidden in the obstacle.
The Consequences of Hesitation
Failing to seize opportunities (whether out of fear, procrastination or doubt) can lead to lasting regret. J.K. Rowling, the celebrated author of the Harry Potter series, offers a compelling reflection on this point: “It is impossible to live without failing at something, unless you live so cautiously that you might as well not have lived at all; in which case, you fail by default.”
Her insight underscores a reality many ignore: avoiding risks altogether is itself a dangerous choice. Playing it safe can often mean forgoing growth, fulfillment and destiny. Embracing opportunity means accepting the possibility of failure but also daring to hope for a better outcome.
Strategic Engagement with Opportunities
Beyond enthusiasm, what sets successful people apart is their preparedness to act. To maximize the benefits of opportunities, a strategic and prepared mindset is essential. This involves cultivating awareness, resilience and a willingness to step outside one’s comfort zone. It also demands self-belief.
This sentiment is humorously but powerfully echoed by popular Nigerian comedian Gordons (Godwin Komone), who shared:
“Some people were born with silver spoon, some with golden spoon but I was born with nothing; yet, I helped myself through university… but today I don’t drive what I drive by my degree neither am I staying where I stay by my degree, I got it all by putting my talent to work.”
This raw and relatable statement reflects the reality that success is not always determined by formal education, social status or privilege. Rather, it is driven by how we identify and utilize our unique gifts. Gordons’ journey reminds us that while not everyone starts life with equal advantages, each of us has something valuable to offer, if only we dare to put it to use.
A Cultural and Historical Perspective
Throughout history, individuals who seized the moment have shaped the course of nations. From Nelson Mandela’s bold steps in post-apartheid South Africa to Chinua Achebe’s literary courage in redefining African identity through literature, the common denominator is courage in the face of uncertainty. They each recognized moments of possibility and acted, thereby transforming societies and leaving legacies.
Nigeria itself is a country bursting with untapped potential and endless opportunities. However, these opportunities are often squandered due to leadership gaps, structural inefficiencies and a culture that sometimes prioritizes entitlement over enterprise. To reverse this trend, we must collectively reorient our mindset (particularly among the youth) toward innovation, resilience and action.
Practical Steps to Seize Opportunities
Cultivate Awareness: Train your mind to recognize possibilities, even in unlikely situations. Opportunity often appears in disguise.
Overcome Fear: Replace fear of failure with faith in growth. Every great story includes moments of risk.
Act Quickly but Thoughtfully: Some doors open briefly. While impulsiveness is risky, overthinking can be paralyzing. Find a balanced approach.
Invest in Your Skills: Constantly improve yourself, the more prepared you are, the easier it is to capitalize when opportunities arise.
Serve Others: Look for opportunities not just for personal gain but for meaningful contribution, success without impact is hollow.
Closing Thoughts
In summation, opportunities are the threads from which the fabric of our lives is woven. They demand recognition, courage and most importantly ACTION. By embracing opportunities with both hands, we not only propel ourselves toward personal growth but also contribute positively to the lives of others.
As we navigate the complexities of existence, let us remain vigilant and responsive to the opportunities that come our way. Each moment holds the potential to shape a brighter, more impactful future; not just for ourselves, but for generations to come.
Let us remember the words of Gordons and others like him; those who, against all odds chose not to wait for perfect conditions but instead forged success from raw talent and unrelenting will. Their stories teach us that opportunity is less about luck and more about preparation, perspective and persistence.
So, the next time opportunity knocks (whether loud or subtle) answer boldly. The world awaits your contribution.
society
Ramadan: Adron Homes Felicitates Muslims, Preaches Hope and Unity
Ramadan: Adron Homes Felicitates Muslims, Preaches Hope and Unity
Adron Homes & Properties Limited has congratulated Muslim faithful on the commencement of the holy month of Ramadan, urging Nigerians to embrace the virtues of sacrifice, discipline, and compassion that define the season.
In a statement made available to journalists, the company described Ramadan as a period of deep reflection, spiritual renewal, and strengthened devotion to faith and humanity.
According to the management, the holy month represents values that align with the organisation’s commitment to integrity, resilience, and community development.
“Ramadan is a time that teaches patience, generosity, and selflessness. As our Muslim customers and partners begin the fast, we pray that their sacrifices are accepted and that the season brings peace, joy, and renewed hope to their homes and the nation at large,” the statement read.
The firm reaffirmed its dedication to providing affordable and accessible housing solutions to Nigerians, noting that building homes goes beyond structures to creating environments where families can thrive.
Adron Homes further urged citizens to use the period to pray for national unity, economic stability, and sustainable growth.
It wished all Muslim faithful a spiritually fulfilling Ramadan.
Ramadan Mubarak.
society
Underfunding National Security: Envelope Budgeting Fails Nigeria’s Defence By George Omagbemi Sylvester
Underfunding National Security: Envelope Budgeting Fails Nigeria’s Defence
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by saharaweeklyng.com
“Fiscal Rigidity in a Time of Crisis: Lawmakers Say Fixed Budget Ceilings Are Crippling Nigeria’s Fight Against Insurgency, Banditry, and Organized Crime.”
Nigeria’s legislature has issued a stark warning: the envelope budgeting system; a fiscal model that caps spending for ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) is inadequate to meet the country’s escalating security challenges. Lawmakers and budget analysts argue that rigid fiscal ceilings are undermining the nation’s ability to confront insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, separatist violence, oil theft and maritime insecurity.
The warning emerged during the 2026 budget defence session for the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) at the National Assembly in Abuja. Senator Yahaya Abdullahi (APC‑Kebbi North), chairman of the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence, decried the envelope system, noting that security agencies “have been subject to the vagaries of the envelope system rather than to genuine needs and requirements.” The committee highlighted non-release or partial release of capital funds from previous budgets, which has hindered procurement, intelligence and operational capacity.
Nigeria faces a multi‑front security crisis: persistent insurgency in the North‑East, banditry and kidnappings across the North‑West and North‑Central, separatist tensions in the South‑East, and piracy affecting Niger Delta oil production. Despite declarations of a national security emergency by President Bola Tinubu, lawmakers point to a “disconnect” between rhetoric and the actual fiscal support for agencies tasked with enforcement.
Experts warn that security operations demand flexibility and rapid resource allocation. Dr. Amina Bello, a public finance specialist, said: “A static budget in a dynamic threat environment is like sending firefighters with water jugs to a forest fire. You need flexibility, not fixed ceilings, to adapt to unforeseen developments.”
The Permanent Secretary of Special Services at ONSA, Mohammed Sanusi, detailed operational consequences: irregular overhead releases, unfulfilled capital appropriations, and constrained foreign service funds. These fiscal constraints have weakened intelligence and covert units, hampering surveillance, cyber‑security, counter‑terrorism and intelligence sharing.
Delayed capital releases have stalled critical projects, including infrastructure upgrades and surveillance systems. Professor Kolawole Adeyemi, a governance expert, emphasized that “budgeting for security must allow for rapid reallocation in response to threats that move faster than political cycles. Envelope budgeting lacks this essential flexibility.”
While the National Assembly advocates fiscal discipline, lawmakers stress that security funding requires strategic responsiveness. Speaker Abbas Ibrahim underscored that security deserves “prominent and sustained attention” in the 2026 budget, balancing oversight with operational needs.
In response, the Senate committee plans to pursue reforms, including collaboration with the executive to restructure funding, explore supplementary budgets and ensure predictable and sufficient resources for security agencies. Experts warn that without reform, criminal networks will exploit these gaps, eroding public trust.
As one policy analyst summarized: “A nation declares a security emergency; but if its budget does not follow with real resources and oversight, the emergency remains rhetorical.” Nigeria’s debate over envelope budgeting is more than an accounting dispute; it is a contest over the nation’s security priorities and its commitment to safeguarding citizens.
society
Rev. Mother Kehinde Osoba (Eritosin) Celebrates as She Marks Her Birthday
Rev. Mother Kehinde Osoba (Eritosin) Celebrates as She Marks Her Birthday
Today, the world and the body of Christ rise in celebration of a rare vessel of honour, Rev. Mother Kehinde Osoba, fondly known as Eritosin, as she marks her birthday.
Born a special child with a divine mark of grace, Rev. Mother Eritosin’s journey in God’s vineyard spans several decades of steadfast service, spiritual depth, and undeniable impact. Those who know her closely describe her as a prophetess with a heart of gold — a woman whose calling is not worn as a title, but lived daily through compassion, discipline, humility, and unwavering faith.
From her early days in ministry, she has touched lives across communities, offering spiritual guidance, prophetic insight, and motherly counsel. Many testify that through her prayers and teachings, they encountered God in a deeply personal and transformative way. Near and far, her influence continues to echo — not only within church walls, but in homes, families, and destinies reshaped through her mentorship.
A mother in every sense of the word, Rev. Mother Kehinde Osoba embodies nurture and correction in equal measure. As a grandmother, she remains energetic in purpose — accommodating the wayward, embracing the rejected, and holding firmly to the belief that no soul is beyond redemption. Her life’s mission has remained consistent: to lead many to Christ and guide them into the light of a new beginning.
Deeply rooted within the C&S Unification, she stands tall as a spiritual pillar in the Cherubim and Seraphim Church globally. Her dedication to holiness, unity, and prophetic service has earned her widespread respect as a spiritual matriarch whose voice carries both authority and humility.
As she celebrates another year today, tributes continue to pour in from spiritual sons and daughters, church leaders, and admirers who see in her a living reflection of grace in action.
Prayer for Rev. Mother Kehinde Osoba (Eritosin)
May the Almighty God, who called you from birth and anointed you for His service, continually strengthen you with divine health and renewed vigour.
May your oil never run dry, and may your prophetic mantle grow heavier with greater glory.
May the lives you have nurtured rise to call you blessed.
May your latter years be greater than the former, filled with peace, honour, and the visible rewards of your labour in God’s vineyard.
May heaven continually back your prayers, and may your light shine brighter across nations.
Happy Birthday to a true Mother in Israel — Rev. Mother Kehinde Osoba (Eritosin).
More years.
More anointing.
More impact.
If you want this adapted for a newspaper page, church bulletin, Facebook post, or birthday flyer, just tell me the format and tone.
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