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The Chronicles of Bishop Paul N. Vincent: Unveiling a spectacular voyage from belief to Empowerment- An Epic Narrative of Endurance and Dedication*

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2 years ago

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*The Chronicles of Bishop Paul N. Vincent: Unveiling a spectacular voyage from belief to Empowerment- An Epic Narrative of Endurance and Dedication*

 

 

In an exclusive interview conducted by Emmanuel Clement, we embark on an illuminating exploration of the remarkable life and visionary leadership of Bishop Paul N. Vincent.
As the driving force behind Persistence Works TV Network (PWTN) and Vincent Paul Ministries Int’l, Bishop Vincent’s journey from personal transformation to global impact is an inspiring testament to faith, resilience, and unwavering commitment to service.

*Can we have meet you sir?*

I am Bishop Paul N. Vincent, a leader with a diverse portfolio including roles as President/CEO of Persistence Works TV Network (PWTN), Publisher of Persistence Works Magazine, and head of Vincent Paul Ministries Int’l. Based in El Paso, Texas, my journey encompasses various spheres of influence, from media to ministry, all fueled by a profound commitment to service.

*How did your journey of faith begin, and what prompted your salvation?*
My salvation journey was catalyzed by a family tragedy in 1982, ultimately leading me to embrace Christ in 1985 during a powerful revival service. This transformative encounter set the course for my lifelong commitment to faith and service.

*Since you gave your life to Christ, have you ever thought of backsliding from the faith?*

No I haven’t. Although many people within my extended family at that time didn’t think I would go all the way. They thought I would soon backslide since I was so young (I was 11 years old when I started attending the church, but was 13 when I made a firm & final decision to give my life and to follow Christ all the way). So they felt by the time the “pleasures of life” begin presenting themselves to me, that I’d backslide. But God’s Faithfulness has proved them all wrong! I’m still here by the Grace of God, still following Christ after almost 40 years now! Praise God!

*Before embarking on ministry, what endeavors did you pursue?*

Prior to diving into full-time ministry, I embarked on a journey of learning and service. From pioneering ministry works in Nigeria to serving as an Army Chaplain in the U.S., my path has been marked by a pursuit of knowledge, leadership, and social impact.

*What is the overarching vision and mandate of your ministry?*

The Vision and mandate of our ministry are:
*To liberate those oppressed by the devil and draw such into the Kingdom Of God by the preaching of the Gospel.
*To Minister healing to the sick: physically, emotionally & spiritually.
*To effectively communicate Christ to our society and the world.
*To preach and teach the word in order to build, develop & mature the Body Of Christ.
*Maximizing the media to propagate the Gospel through: Publications, Television, Social Media, Crusades, Conferences & Charity.

*Have you ever experienced regret as a minister of God?*

Well, we all are constantly growing and learning. The most important thing in life is not that you made mistakes, it’s that you’re able to quickly learn from it, grow and move on beyond it. So yes there were few choices or actions that one might have wished could have been done differently or so, but it’s all part of the learning curves in life. But what I don’t ever regret at any time is: Giving my life to Christ at an early age; answering the Call of God at an early age; getting married to my wife; serving in the US military and other such key choices in life; I don’t regret any of them.

*How do you handle critics?*

If they are constructive criticism, people that want you to do well or better and offer criticism in a way to help you do better and be better: I thank them, accept & evaluate the criticism; If I need to do something different or change something or so, wisdom demands that you do whatever that will help you become a better version of your tomorrow than you were today. But, if they are destructive criticism, people who just want to tear you down and don’t care about you or what you are doing: then I just ignore them, keep doing what am doing. But in some cases, your critics today may become your cheerleaders and fans tomorrow, so I try not to take most criticism so personal. Of course everyone won’t like you, love you or appreciate what you’re doing. So be at peace with that fact of life too!

*Should Christians actively engage in politics?*

Absolutely. Christians have a vital role to play in shaping the political landscape, bringing principles of integrity, justice, and compassion to governance. As stewards of society, our engagement in politics is both a responsibility and an opportunity to effect positive change.

*What’s your perspective on the current political climate?*

The current political climate underscores the urgency of our times, with global upheavals and conflicts signaling the need for steadfast leadership and spiritual discernment. As we navigate these turbulent waters, it’s imperative to uphold values of righteousness and perseverance.

*What do you think is the solution to the ravaging insecurities in the country?*

Bottom Line is that Nigeria needs to be restructured, period! All the issues the nation is facing or dealing with, (more especially insecurity) are only the symptoms, the root cause of Nigeria’s problem is foundational and structural. When you keep forcing strange bed mates to live together and they don’t want to, you’ve set the stage for whatever you get. If you are sick and you go to the hospital, a good doctor won’t just treat your symptoms, they’ll try to get to the root of the problem why you are having those symptoms, which is why they ask you to go do scan, MRI, various tests, etc; so that they can identify the root cause of the sickness and treat it from there, because if you get the root cause taken care of, the symptoms will easily be treated or taken care of. So most of what Nigeria’s political leadership have been doing over the past 63 years plus, since her independence, is treating the symptoms and hoping to cure the sickness. No it doesn’t work that way. To treat the root cause of Nigeria’s problem will require restructuring the country. Again, due to the failed structure, there are people who are benefiting from it the way it is now (even with all the insecurity) that will want things to remain the way they are now, as long as they are benefiting, they don’t care. Which is also part of the problem, people or politicians want what benefits them & not what’s best for everyone.

So when you restructure, then every region can develop at their pace, maximize their full potential, including potential for economic growth and industrialization, solve their problems in the context of what works for them and most of the criminal elements will either change and be engaged in something more productive or will have to face the full weight of the laws. Again even in being able to restructure, it’ll take a leadership that is visionary and selfless. And the question is, does Nigeria have such leaders now, I doubt it! But I pray am proven wrong!

*Where do you envision your ministry in the next 5 years?*

Looking ahead, I envision our ministry expanding its reach and impact across diverse platforms. From a thriving TV network and publication to impactful community initiatives, our goal is to touch lives and transform communities on a global scale.

*What message do you have for those who thought there is no hope from political leaders in the country?*

Actually, is there any hope from political leaders in the country? I doubt it! But in any case, I pray that the political leaders will at least for once, try to prove people wrong by doing the right things & putting policies in place that’ll benefit the people and that’ll move the nation forward. That they’ll serve selflessly and not be about themselves. And I pray that God will one day bless this nation with the right crop of selfless leaders who will be willing to go to any lengths to serve their people and improve their quality of life.

*What has life taught you over the years?*

Life has thought me that: PERSISTENCE WORKS! Whatever you do in life; Don’t Give Up! Don’t throw in the towel because IF you keep Persisting in the face of adversity, danger, failure, set back, criticism or persecution, soon your persistence will work for you, because I am a proof that PERSISTENCE WORKS!

Another thing that life taught me was when I completely went blind in my left eye for almost a year due to cataract. But I eventually had surgery to remove the cataract and regained my sight. That experience taught me how priceless being able to SEE could be. And I thought within myself, that had it been I didn’t have the means or finances to do the eye surgery, I would have remained completely blind in that eye. So that birthed a new project: Cataract Medical Mission, as part of our Persistence Works Charity Project. So now we help people who have cataract or now blind and don’t have the means to pay for the surgery, we help them to pay for cataract surgery or even for glaucoma surgery. And we’ve helped a couple of people so far and hope to do it on a more larger scale soon. So giving back when God has blessed you or shown you mercy is one thing life and God’s Word has taught me.

*“Bishop Paul N. Vincent’s journey exemplifies the power of faith, resilience, and visionary leadership. His unwavering dedication to service continues to inspire and uplift countless individuals worldwide.”*

 

The Chronicles of Bishop Paul N. Vincent: Unveiling a spectacular voyage from belief to Empowerment- An Epic Narrative of Endurance and Dedication*

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Sahara weekly online is published by First Sahara weekly international. contact [email protected]

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Police Repel Coordinated Kidnap Attack In Sokoto, Launch Manhunt

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April 23, 2026

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Police Repel Coordinated Kidnap Attack In Sokoto, Launch Manhunt

 

Security operatives in Sokoto State have foiled a coordinated kidnapping attempt by armed bandits targeting two communities, killing one suspect and launching a manhunt for others who escaped with injuries.

 

According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer of the command, Ahmad Rufa’i, the operation was carried out in the early hours of Thursday following a distress call received at about 12:30 a.m. reporting simultaneous attacks on Illela Village, also known as Achida Town, and Kwargaba Hamlet.

 

“The Anti-Kidnapping Unit, in collaboration with other tactical teams, responded swiftly to the distress call,” he said. “Our operatives, who were already on high alert, engaged the bandits in a fierce gun duel and successfully repelled the attack.”

 

Rufa’i disclosed that the security forces overpowered the assailants after a prolonged exchange of gunfire, neutralising one suspect who was dressed in military camouflage, while others fled with gunshot wounds into the nearby Gundumi Forest.

 

“An intensive manhunt is ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects who escaped into the forest with varying degrees of injuries,” he added.

 

However, before the arrival of security personnel, the bandits reportedly shot and killed a member of the Kwargaba community vigilante group. His body has since been recovered and released to his family for burial.

 

The police spokesperson urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements or individuals to the nearest security agency, assuring that efforts are being intensified to ensure the safety of lives and property across the state.

 

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The Kendrick Brothers, Cameron Arnett, Kingdom Story Company, Bright Wonder Obasi Train 60 Christian Filmmakers in Nigeria

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5 hours ago

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April 23, 2026

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 The Kendrick Brothers, Cameron Arnett, Kingdom Story Company, Bright Wonder Obasi Train 60 Christian Filmmakers in Nigeria

 

 

Abuja, Nigeria – April 23, 2026

Successful actors, producers and movie makers like; the Kendrick Brothers, Cameron Arnett, Kingdom Story Company, Bright Wonder Obasi were among the facilitators who trained 60 Christian Filmmakers in Nigeria at the just concluded Africa Gospel Film Project (AGFP) 2026.

 

The groundbreaking 6-day Intensive Filmmaking Masterclass and Spiritual Formation Program, were 60 emerging Christian filmmakers from Nigeria and Zambia were trained in Abuja was held at the Gospel Cinema International /High Definition Film Academy (HDFA) Facility in Gwarinpa.

 

The program brought together a distinguished lineup of facilitators from Nigeria and the United States, positioning AGFP as a leading platform for faith-based filmmaking development in Africa.

 

Among the international facilitators was Stephen Kendrick of the Kendrick Brothers, known for films such as The Forge, War Room, Facing the Giants, and Courageous, Overcomer, Fireproof, who delivered a powerful session titled “Heart of The Filmmaker.” Also featured was Cameron Arnett, who led sessions on “Christ Over Career” and acting for film.

 

Other notable speakers included Nick Carey (Kingdom Story Company), who spoke on “The Making of a Faith-Based Blockbuster Movie,” as well as Bob Saenz (Screenwriting Masterclass), Beverly Holloway (Acting Masterclass), David Cook, Adam Drake, Prince Daniel (Aboki), Lummie Adevbie, Chris Odeh, and Jennifer Keltner (Identity & Storytelling), among others.

 

The program opened with a strong spiritual foundation, including worship and a keynote by the Convener, Bright Wonder Obasi, titled “Calling & Identity: Film as Spiritual Influence/Programming,” which challenged participants to view storytelling as a tool for cultural and spiritual transformation.

 

Participants were grouped into four production studios—House of Gideon, House of Caleb, House of Joshua, and House of David—and underwent three days of intensive masterclasses and workshops across screenwriting, directing, cinematography, acting, editing, and producing, alongside deep spiritual formation.

 

On Day 4, teams developed and pitched short film concepts for professional review and approval. Day 5 was dedicated to full-scale production, with all four teams executing their projects under real industry conditions.

 

The program culminated on Day 6 with:

A Pitch-A-Thon, where 20 filmmakers presented original projects for funding and collaboration.

 

A public screening of four short films produced during the program

Professional feedback from a panel of judges.

 

Certification of all participants

 

Awards for best Screenplay, Cinematography, directing, editing, acting, and overall best short film.

 

The closing ceremony featured a powerful commissioning session led by Pastor Ikenna Okeke, where participants were prayed for and consecrated as “God’s Creative Army.”

 

Speaking after the event, the Convener, Bright Wonder Obasi, described AGFP 2026 as “a movement to raise storytellers who will shape culture and influence nations through truth-driven films.

 

Films that honor God”

With its successful debut, AGFP is now preparing for its next edition, following its mandate to train 300 Christian filmmakers across Africa and develop a slate of six global faith-based films over a three-year period.

The Africa Gospel Film Project continues to position itself as a catalyst for purpose-driven storytelling, industry excellence, and spiritual transformation in African cinema.

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A Renewed Momentum: How the Chief of Army Staff is Repositioning the Nigerian Army for Decisive Impact

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11 hours ago

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April 23, 2026

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*A Renewed Momentum: How the Chief of Army Staff is Repositioning the Nigerian Army for Decisive Impact*

By Comrade Oladimeji Odeyemi.

 

 

In times of prolonged security challenges, it is easy—almost convenient—for critics to amplify setbacks while ignoring measurable progress. Yet, across Nigeria’s diverse and complex theatres of operation, a different story is steadily unfolding: one of resilience, tactical evolution, and renewed operational effectiveness under the leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, (COAS, Nigerian Army), Lt General Waidi Shaibu.

 

What we are witnessing today is not a media hype or propaganda—it is the outcome of deliberate reforms, improved coordination, and a reinvigorated fighting spirit within the Nigerian Army.

 

*A Clear Shift in Operational Effectiveness*

 

Recent developments across, but not limited to Benue, Plateau, Borno, Yobe, Sokoto, Zamfara, Kogi, Kwara, Edo, and the South-East underscore a critical truth: the Nigerian Army under General Waidi Shaibu is not on the back foot. On the contrary, it is increasingly proactive, intelligence-driven, and responsive.

 

From the successful rescue of kidnapped civilians in Benue, to the interception of armed militias in Plateau, and the neutralisation of insurgents in Borno, the pattern is consistent—swift response, precision engagement, and tangible outcomes.

 

These are not isolated victories. They reflect:

 

– Improved intelligence gathering and utilisation.

 

– Faster troop deployment and mobility.

 

– Enhanced inter-agency collaboration.

 

– Better morale and combat readiness among personnel.

 

Such coordination, especially in asymmetric warfare, does not happen by chance. It is a direct reflection of leadership at the top.

 

*The Chief of Army Staff: Lt General Waidi Shaibu Driving Reform and Results*

 

Since assuming office, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Waidi Shaibu has brought a renewed sense of urgency and clarity of purpose to military operations. His leadership style appears anchored on three critical pillars:

 

*1. Operational Aggression with Discipline*

 

Troops are no longer merely reacting—they are taking the fight to criminal elements. Whether dismantling terrorist camps in the North Central states or repelling coordinated attacks in the North-East, or engaging the Unknown Gunmen in the SouthEast, the Nigerian Army is demonstrating initiative and dominance.

 

*2. Intelligence-Led Warfare*

 

Modern conflicts are won as much with information as with firepower. The increasing success in intercepting logistics suppliers, uncovering IEDs, and preempting attacks shows a system that is becoming smarter, not just stronger.

 

*3. Joint Force Synergy*

 

The collaboration between the Army, Air Force, Navy, Police, DSS, and local security groups has significantly improved. Operations in the South Eastern part of the Country and other regions highlight a unified national security architecture—something that has long been advocated but is now visibly taking shape.

 

*Addressing the Culture of Criticism*

 

It must be said plainly: criticism is not inherently wrong in a democracy. However, what is deeply problematic is the pattern of uninformed, selective outrage that ignores context, dismisses progress, and undermines morale.

 

Those who hastily label every security incident as evidence of failure often:

 

– Ignore the complexity of asymmetric warfare.

 

– Overlook the sacrifices of frontline personnel.

 

– Fail to acknowledge the vast geographical and logistical challenges involved.

 

Worse still, some narratives are built on speculation, ethnic bias, or incomplete information—such as prematurely attributing crimes to specific groups without verification.

 

This does not help the nation. It weakens it.

 

*The Reality of the Battlefield*

 

Nigeria is not facing a conventional war. The threats are:

 

– Decentralised.

 

– Embedded within local communities.

 

– Adaptive and unpredictable.

 

From insurgents and bandits to kidnappers and economic saboteurs, the battlefield is fluid. Success, therefore, must be measured not by the absence of incidents, but by the capacity to respond, contain, and degrade threats over time.

 

By this standard, the Nigerian Army is making undeniable progress.

 

*The Human Element: Courage and Sacrifice*

 

Behind every operation report is a human story—soldiers who leave their families behind, who endure harsh terrains, who confront danger daily so that millions of Nigerians can live in relative safety.

 

Some pay the ultimate price.

 

To reduce their efforts to mere statistics or dismiss them outright is not just unfair—it is unjust.

 

*A Call for National Support*

 

The progress being recorded today must be sustained, and that requires more than military effort. It demands:

 

– Public cooperation with security agencies.

 

– Responsible media reporting.

 

– Community vigilance against criminal infiltration

 

– Constructive, informed criticism where necessary.

 

Most importantly, it requires national unity in purpose.

 

*Conclusion: A Force Worthy of Confidence*

 

The Nigerian Army, under the leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Waidi Shaibu is demonstrating that with the right direction, commitment, and strategy, meaningful progress is possible—even in the face of complex security challenges.

 

The gains may not always make screaming headlines, but they are real. They are measurable. And they are building momentum.

 

Rather than constant condemnation, what the Armed Forces deserve at this critical time is recognition, encouragement, and unwavering support.

 

Because beyond the noise of criticism lies a simple truth:

these men and women are standing between order and chaos—and they are holding the line.

 

This article was written by Comrade Oladimeji Odeyemi, an entrepreneur and an opinion moulder from Ibadan, Oyo State.

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