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T.B Joshua: A permanent fixture in the Lord’s vineyard

Published

5 years ago

October 5, 2019

Sahara Weekly

SCOAN HOLDS FIRST THANKSGIVING CHURCH SERVICE ON SUNDAY.

T.B Joshua: A permanent fixture in the Lord's vineyard

T.B Joshua: A permanent fixture in the Lord’s vineyard

Bolaji Tunji

Since the early 90s when Prophet Temitope Balogun Joshua popularly called T.B Joshua’ s fame was on the ascendancy, he had always been trailed by one controversy or the other, but like a Phoenix that regenerates from ashes, he had always come out of those controversies, stronger. Not really for one day did his popularity waned. I recall that in those early days, one of the major issues that confronted the Prophet in the Synagogue was his source of power. The speculation then was he had some extraneous powers that had aided him in all the miracles that the church was known.

Indeed, some even whispered to those who cared to listen that T.B Joshua could never be heard calling the name, Jesus, thus confirming the fact that he had other powers behind him rather than that of the Almighty creator of the heavens and the Earth. To feed these speculations, it was said he had a place in the marshland of Egbe where even angels fear to trod. The marshland, incidentally was where the ministry took off, a story of a humble beginning. That lie fizzled out because it had nothing to feed on. It died like others before it.

The story also came up that T. B Joshua got his powers from India and some ancient Asian countries. That also fell flat as one wondered why those who gave him the power could not wrought those miracles in their country or the source from where the power came from. The story went on and on because his was a phenomenon that defied human explanation.

I recall that as a cub journalist, my first contact with him and the Synagogue was borne out of fear which later turned out unfounded. At one of our Editorial meetings, a colleague who lived around the same axis as the church’s location had arrived the office breathless that Monday afternoon. He had a story to tell. On the way to work, he had sighted a horde of policemen around the church and was not sure what they were up to. The Editor had queried why he did not stop to find out and do a report. His response was indicative of the unfounded rumour that surrounded the Synagogue at the time. He told all of us in the Editor’s office that he could not do the report because of the unpalatable stories he had heard; that anyone that did a report on T.B Joshua would develop mental illness and probably end up a patient of “Yaba on the left’ or a tenant of a similar enclave in Aro, Abeokuta. Of course he could not substantiate what he said, he was only adamant on one point – no amount of persuasion would take him to the church to do the report.

Whether due to foolhardiness, ignorance or courage, yours truly decided to take up the challenge. After several visits to the church a very comprehensive report about the church and the man in the church was done. After the publication, I have never had cause to visit a psychiatric hospital.

But the Society was not done with T.B Joshua. The ‘war’came from the Christian fold, most of the men of God forgot the teaching of the Bible, they judged, forgetting judgement is the Almighty’s. They more or less ostracised T.B Joshua. But he seemed to thrive on such adversities. The church that the ‘blind’ seers predicted would soon fold or would not last is still waxing stronger almost three decades after their carnally -inspired predictions.

Today, if you are talking religious tourism, the name that readily comes to mind is T.B Joshua’s and the Synagogue Church of All Nations in Ikotun-Egbe, Nigeria. The church can be described as the biggest religious tourism destination in the whole of the African continent today. The Nigeria Immigration Services (NIS) said six out of every 10 foreign travellers coming into Nigeria are Synagogue bound. The popularity of the church has led to more flights coming into Lagos from within and outside the country. Domestic visitors to the church come from far-flung places knowing they were bound for the solution to whatever problems they came to present. In and around the church location, businesses have also sprung up, thus empowering more local businesses and their owners. There are hotels around for those who are not Lagos residents. Restaurants and stores are equally making brisk businesses.

His teaching and preaching is not only feed for the soul, the physical is equally fed. Philanthropic gestures in places like Haiti after a devastating earthquake, Indonesian poor and the downtrodden, Mexico and Colombia are among the countries that have felt his touch of philanthropy. Nations have honoured him. In Israel, he is a spectacle who is accorded, symbolically, the donkey ride into Jerusalem. The red carpet is ever laid for him during any of his visits. He had even been urged to establish a religious presence in that country with land already available for that purpose. During his visit to Dominican Republic in 2017, he was accorded the royalty treatment. He was met at the Las Americas airport by the leadership of that country. It was a carnival like atmosphere. By the time he ended his crusade about three days later, Dominica stood still. And to appreciate him, he was honoured with the highest award in that country by the parliament.

Consequently, the accolades in the last 30 years, from a humble beginning to the present growth, spreading the gospel and providing succour in all corners of the World, have made something poignantly clear, T.B Joshua is a permanent fixture in the Lord’s vineyard. He can never be wished away.

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Celebrating The Women Behind The Music : The Members Of Elite Women Musicians Club Of Lagos

Published

2 days ago

December 19, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Celebrating The Women Behind The Music : The Members Of Elite Women Musicians Club Of Lagos

In the pulsating heart of Lagos, the Elite Women Musicians Club of Lagos

stands as a beacon of unity and empowerment for female artists. This dynamic association, renowned for its diversity in musical genres, prides itself on bringing together talented women from all walks of musical life. Today, we celebrate its esteemed members, who number twenty-nine strong, each contributing uniquely to the vibrant tapestry of the Club.

Leading The Charge :

At the forefront of the Elite Women Musicians Club of Lagos Club is Alhaja Queen Isimot Abake Abiola PQ1st (Omo Opeki), the President. Her leadership is a source of inspiration for many, guiding the Club with a vision of inclusivity and excellence. Supporting her is Alhaja Queen Halimot Ayinla Omowura, the Vice President, whose dedication ensures the smooth operation and growth of the association.

Alhaja Badirat Adunni Olaniyan (Just Like That) serves as the Treasurer, managing the financial health of the Club with precision. The Social Secretary, Alhaja Aminat Babalola Balogun (Omotayebi, Iya Kekere Eko), brings vibrancy and connectivity, fostering a sense of community among the members. Asiwaju Yeye Tosin Eniba (Fuji Queen), the Secretary, ensures that the administrative duties are handled efficiently, supporting the organizational backbone of the Club.

Valued Members :

The Club’s strength lies in its diverse membership, each woman a luminary in her own right. The following are the distinguished members of the Elite Women Musicians Club of Lagos :

– Afonja Gbajoba

– Bisi Ewa Ogo Jesu

– Alhaja Jelilat Dupytie

– Ejire Akewi Oba

– Alhaja Aminat Itojuobi

– Alh. Fatimo Oseni Salawa Onigbongbo

– Alh. Tawakalitu Alagbada Tokotaya to nko Fuji

– Aishat Irepo Obi

– Olaleye Rahemot Arike (Akomolesin Agbaye)

– Alh. Dasola Abeke

– Ewebiyi Iya Oriki

– Ameerat Oninure

– Alh. Azeezat Otibiya

– Alh. Rukayat Bashirimi

– Alh. Mujidat Damilola

– Alh. Fatima Aljafaria, an Elder whose wisdom and experience enrich the Club.

– Alh. Taibat Omo Tayenfe

– Queen Muheenat Ijaodola

– Sakirat Yeye Oge

– Alh. Mariam Akiki Akanbi

– Queen Abebi Ayala

– Aweni Adepeju (Aweni Fuji)

– Fatimo Ajoke Cinderella

– Alh. Hafsat Sideeq, another Elder whose guidance is deeply valued.

A Legacy of Excellence :

The Elite Women Musicians Club of Lagos is more than just an association; it is a legacy of excellence, a network of powerful voices that harmonize to uplift and inspire. Each member, from the executives to the distinguished members, plays a crucial role in shaping the cultural and musical landscape of Lagos and beyond. Their combined efforts create a symphony of collaboration and mutual support, ensuring that the future of female musicians in Nigeria remains bright and promising.

As we celebrate these remarkable women, we also look forward to the new heights the Club will achieve under their leadership and unity. Their commitment to their craft and each other stands as a testament to the incredible power of music and the unwavering strength of women.

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Sustain Tempo of High Revenue With Compliance, CGC Tells Comptroller Olomu

Published

5 days ago

December 16, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Sustain Tempo of High Revenue With Compliance, CGC Tells Comptroller Olomu
… As Apapa Command Honours Outstanding Stakeholders

By Ifeoma Ikem

Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR has commended the Area Controller of Apapa Port Command, Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, fsi for the command’s outstanding revenue collection of over N2.2tr and urged him to sustain the tempo.

CGC said this in Apapa on Friday at the command’s end of the year party and award ceremony also harped on the need for compliance and synergies as necessary strategies to greater productivity at the port. According to him, compliance is a competitive advantage.

He was represented by Deputy Comptroller General Caroline Niagwan, DCG Tariff and Trade, Adeniyi congratulated the Customs Area Controller and all the officers and men of Apapa Area Command for the milestone achieved in revenue collection to the tune of N2.2tr and still counting which has earned the command multiple accolades

“It is with immense pleasure that I stand before you today to celebrate a shared commitment to compliance and excellence in trade. This award ceremony is a testament to your dedication to ethical business practices, adherence to regulations, and unwavering support for the principles that drive Nigeria’s economic growth.

“Compliance is not merely a requirement; it is a competitive advantage. It fosters transparency, reduces operational risks, and strengthens the trust between businesses and regulatory authorities. It also positions compliant stakeholders to enjoy streamlined processes, faster clearance times, and access to the numerous benefits that come with being recognized as trusted trade partners.

“As a Service, we understand that sustaining compliance can sometimes require capacity building, especially as global trade evolves.

To this end, the Service is committed to providing the necessary training, technical assistance, and partnerships that will empower you with the knowledge and tools to maintain this high standard.

“Our goal is to ensure that every stakeholder remains competitive,vinnovative, and aligned with global best practices.
By working together, we can unlock even greater opportunities for growth. Compliant stakeholders not only contribute to national revenue but also drive economic development, attract foreign investments, and enhance Nigeria’s position in international trade” Adeniyi said

In his welcome speech, Comptroller Olomu expressed appreciation to the CGC and the customs management team for always providing the direction and inspiration to the command in it’s drive to meet government’s expectations .

He described the end of year party as many things rolled up in one as it strengthens the stakeholders bond as a community of government and private sector collaborators working together for the betterment of Nigeria;

it’s also to celebrate together as the year 2024 ends and honour those whose outstanding performances contributed in shaping the command’s achievements in 2024.

Comptroller Olomu said despite the challenges of low trade volume, the command is able to achieve it’s target which is a reflection of officers commitment and dedication to duty

He added that in line with the policy thrust of the CGC, the command utilised it’s relationship with stakeholders to achieve it’s goal this year.

According to him improving on stakeholder engagement has become an operational template the Comptroller General of Customs has impressed on the officers and expressed joy to announce that it has proven to be a masterstroke towards enhanced compliance.

Comptroller Olomu said “Compliance is no doubt the bedrock of all customs achievements in areas of revenue collection, anti smuggling and legitimate trade facilitation. Our approach to regurlarly engage our sister government agencies has raised our degree of intelligence sharing towards a common national interest.

“Let me use this period to thank the NPA, DSS, NDLEA, NAQS,Port Health, Police, Immigration and other sister government agencies for their consistent collaboration in 2024. They are indeed an integral part of the command’s success story in 2024. I urge them to stay on board let’s do it again in 2025.

“With our port users, we maintained regularly enlightenment meetings, faster trade dispute resolution mechanism and consistent appraisal of feedbacks to keep improving on our responsibilities.

“There have been positive fallouts of our regular interface with our stakeholders. This is evident in our collection of N2..2tr revenue and still counting, zeroing in on the minority that attempt smuggling by curbing their activities with seizures. We are fostering inclusivity and this will continue in 2025

“We have ensured no container , import or export consignment goes through our control without due diligence of proper examination. This has been the foundation of our impeccable enforcement drive.

“We are honouring some of our officers and stakeholders for their outstanding performances in the year 2024 . I want to urge the awardees to see this as a call for more commitment to surpass their best outputs. There is no end to improvement

“This should also be a challenge to those who didn’t make the award list this time, I urge them to keep improving with a promise that their inputs shall not go unnoticed for due recognition” he concluded

Among those recognised with various awards are APM Terminals, Sifax Group, ENL Consortium, Dangote, Talod Ocean Airfreight and Princess Chi Ezeh the CEO of Munah Sylva Nigeria Limited

The command also recognised serving and retired officers for their contributions to it’s overall successes in 2024.

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Bullion Records; GyC Release Debut EP Album, A Billion Things

Published

1 week ago

December 12, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Bullion Records; GyC Release Debut EP Album, A Billion Things

By Ibrahim Kegbegbe

Bullion Records, one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing record labels, has officially released its highly anticipated debut EP album, A Billion Things, sung by its sensational artist, GyC. Born Fortune Kingsley, GyC is making waves in the Nigerian music industry, and this five-track EP marks a significant milestone in his career and the label’s history.

The EP, which dropped today, Wednesday, December 12, 2024, features an eclectic mix of tracks, including Mailo, Shayo, Woman, Kpang Kpang, and Kokan Aye. The standout track, Kokan Aye, features collaborations with Nigerian music icons 9ice and Eedris Abdul Kareem, further solidifying GyC’s place in the music scene.

Speaking about the project, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, Chairman and CEO of Bullion Records, described the album as a blend of inspiration and artistry. “Every track in this album is not only a masterpiece but also delivers profound messages. From love to resilience, and from societal consciousness to celebration, A Billion Things resonates with listeners on different levels,” he said.

The production team behind the album includes some of Nigeria’s most talented producers. YoungSmith worked on the hits Shayo, Woman, and Mailo, while Philkeyz produced the electrifying Kpang Kpang. Shockerbeat added his signature touch to Kokan Aye, ensuring the album delivers a diverse yet cohesive sound.

Mr. Elegbede Ajibola, the entertainment director at Bullion Records, emphasized the label’s strategic timing for the album’s release. “We deliberately chose December to launch this EP because it’s a season when people connect through music. We want fans and good music lovers worldwide to vibe to these amazing tracks during the festive period,” Elegbede noted.

GyC, the star of the moment, expressed his gratitude to the team behind the album’s success. “This project is the result of collective effort and dedication. I want to thank the executive members of Bullion Records for their unwavering support. Special appreciation also goes to the incredible music producers who brought my vision to life,” he said.

The release of A Billion Things marks a bold statement from Bullion Records as it cements its position in the Nigerian music industry. With a lineup of motivational, soulful, and dance-worthy tracks, the EP is expected to become a favorite among music lovers globally.

Fans can now stream or purchase the album on all major music platforms.