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‘The general notion that women are not called to be Pastors is a wrong and misleading notion’ – Rev. Lizzy Suleman
Reverend (Dr.) Lizzy Suleman, woman of God and wife of the founder and head pastor at Fire and Miracle Ministries Worldwide, Apostle Johnson Suleman, speaks with one of our correspondent on the roles of woman as wife, mother and diligent company to her man, as well as her place in the society. Excerpt…
How do you reconcile the notion that women are not called to be pastors or church elders and the great works many women like you are doing in the Lord’s vineyard?
The call of God on women is not restricted to just being woman without having anything to do with the pulpit. The general notion that women are not called to be a pastor or into church leadership is a wrong and misleading notion. Biblically, it’s not so. From the Bible days to this contemporary world, we have women at the helms of affairs in the church setting. To start with, Deborah, the judge in Israel, the wife of Lapidol who ruled Israel for years is a woman, Judge 4. Esther, the wife of king Ahaswerus saved the race of Jews from being exterminated. And in the contemporary world of today, Aimee Semple McPherson, the Founder of FourSquare Gospel Church and many others. Though Apostle Paul said women should be silent in church, this is peculiar with the church in Corinthians because of the behaviour of the then women. This is not a general situation.
1 Corinthians 14: 34-35 do not prohibit women from speaking in the church in either pulpit ministry, teaching, preaching, praying, prophesying, or any other speaking function. The focus of Chapter 14 is on the proper use of spiritual gifts, tongues and prophecy. Apostle Paul’s closing exhortation, beginning in verse 39, is a fitting conclusion. Therefore, my brothers and sisters, desire earnestly to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues. But let all things be done properly and in an orderly manner.
The notion that women should be silent in the church or not called to be a pastor or leader of congregation is wrong because of lack of total understanding of the scriptures.
There are women in places of authority. As a woman of God, how would the privilege not hinder her positive roles as wife and mother?
Every woman made by God is designed to be a wife to her husband and a mother to her biological children. And if the woman is in church setting, she will have spiritual children (protégées). One thing that is common that would make any woman a good wife and a good mother is humility, large heart and submission. Without true application of these Godly virtues, any woman in the place of authority would mix things up to the detriment of the society.
Abortion is the taking of life. It is prevalent among our women. It has become an industry, a solution, and an excuse to avoid responsibility because those engaged in it will say it is because they have no money to care for the baby. How do we deal with it the Christian way?
To start with, abortion as you rightly put it is taking of life deliberately either from the stage of zygote or embryo or foetus, the moment of fertilisation is an entirely logical point to choose as the beginning of human life. Abortion is not the act or the way of God but of man and in no way is a Godly step that the society at large should emulate. Great stars, generals, professors, helpers of destinies have been sent into early extinction because of the evil work of blind mothers and fathers in the society. This evil vice can be dealt with in a Christian way first by having the fear of God. If every mother, would-be-mother, father and would-be-father should have the fear of God, the evil act of abortion would be curtailed because the Bible says ‘you shall not kill’ either from the stage of zygote or embryo or foetus or a full grown up human being, killing is killing. Before parents embark on the act of abortion, they should ask themselves the great question of life ‘assuming my parents aborted me when I was a zygote or embryo or foetus, would I be what I am today?’ That would be a good guide to solving this problem.
Marriage is God’s design. But even in Christian homes, it is not all rosy. What are the best tonics to having a lasting marriage?
Marriage is a journey. Most times, some journeys in life are full of challenges while some are rosy depending on the factors put in place before the journey started. Frankly speaking, there is no perfect marriage on earth because two people with different backgrounds are coming to stay together. Perfect marriage is in heaven between the bride (the church) and the groom (Jesus). However, if any marriage must work, it must be the joint effort of the couple. So the best marriage tonic in my opinion is having marital understanding, that every husband should love his wife and every wife should submit to her husband.
Please, tell us about the International Women Conference 2016 and the glory of the wonders and signs there.
The International Women Conference was a galaxy and compendium of power, testimonies and word depth. This is a conference where people converged from various continents of the world to be influenced positively by the new anointing which is the conference theme. The three days conference was packaged and summed up in word depth manifestation, healings, deliverances, restorations, accurate prophetic utterances, singing, drama etc. The conference was capped up with Thanksgiving. To the glory of God, testimonies are still coming in.
Some Christian women are confusing the fact that men and women have equal rights and access to salvation, with the need for submission to the leadership of men. What do you have to say about this?
Every man and woman on earth has equal right and access to salvation which is based on their faith in Christ and it is a divine gift offered to mankind by God. As regards women submitting to the leadership of men (at home) is not debatable or contestable because it’s divine instruction according to Ephesians 5:22 “Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord”. However, when a woman is in position of authority, both men and women under her should submit to her.
How do you really inspire women under your watch in the church?
Inspiration for timely and purposeful leadership is from God. When it is time to lead, the capable and the needed resources to accomplish the due delivery of the exercise would be made available by God.
As a leader, the best way to inspire your followers is to inspire yourself first. In other words, when a leader is inspired, the followers would be inspired. A deliberate attempt to live an exemplary life is another source of motivation and inspiration for our women.
What are some of the qualities that describe a Godly woman in this time of vices?
The best way of describing qualities of a Godly woman is by aligning it with what the Bible says. A Godly woman must be a born again child of God whose life is a blessing to others. She must of necessity be engrossed with the duty of submission at home to her husband. A Godly woman can also mean a virtuous woman whose attributes are in Prov. 31:10-24. They are: industrious, tact, not wasteful or extravagant in life, not wicked in mind, good mothers indeed and not notorious in their approach to life.
In nutshell, a Godly woman does not live all her life on the things of this world. She believes that we are pilgrims or strangers in this world that sooner or later, Jesus will come back again to judge both the living and the dead. As a matter of fact, she knows that the every daily activity of human being is either pointing him or her to Heaven or hell.
FirstBank Makes Home Ownership Possible for Nigerians with Single-Digit Interest Rate Loan
For millions of Nigerians, homeownership has long felt like an ambition deferred. Squeezed by rising property prices, persistent double-digit inflation and high commercial lending rates, the dream of owning a home has remained just that – a dream.
But that narrative is quietly changing. Thanks to FirstBank.
The N1 Trillion Intervention Reshaping Access
In partnership with the Ministry of Finance Incorporated Real Estate Investment Fund (MREIF), FirstBank has unveiled a mortgage opportunity that could redefine access to housing finance in Nigeria.
Backed by the Federal Government’s N1trillion mortgage fund, the initiative is designed to empower Nigerians with affordable, long-term credit to own their homes.
9.75% Interest Rate in a 30% Lending Environment
MREIF is priced at 9.75% per annum, dramatically lower than prevailing commercial loan rates. Eligible Nigerians can access up to N100 million and repay within 20 years. This translates into significantly more manageable monthly repayments and greater long-term financial stability.
Built for Salary Earners, Entrepreneurs and the Diaspora
The MREIF mortgage facility has been structured to be inclusive. It is available to salary account holders, business owners and diaspora customers. Whether you are a young professional aiming to exit the rent cycle, an entrepreneur building generational stability, or you’re a Nigerian abroad looking to secure assets locally, the product opens a pathway that has historically been out of reach for many.
Taking the First Step
For those who have been waiting for the right time, this is definitely it. The question is no longer whether homeownership is possible. The real question is: will you act before the window narrows?
Visit https://www.firstbanknigeria.com/personal/loans/mreif-home-loan/ and in no time you could be the latest homeowner in town.
Alpha Morgan Bank Deepens Presence in Abuja with New Branch in Utako
Marking another milestone in its expansion drive, Alpha Morgan Bank has opened a new branch in Utako, Abuja, reinforcing its strategy of building closer institutional ties within key business communities and bringing its financial expertise closer to individuals, and enterprises driving the city’s growth.
The new branch, located at Plot 1121 Obafemi Awolowo Way, Utako, Abuja is strategically positioned to serve individuals, entrepreneurs, and corporate clients within Utako and surrounding districts.
The expansion follows the Bank’s recently concluded Economic Review Webinar held in February 2026, as the bank continues to position as a thought-leader in the financial services industry.
Speaking on the opening, Ade Buraimo, Managing Director of Alpha Morgan Bank, said the move underscores the Bank’s commitment to accessibility and service excellence.
“Proximity matters in banking. As communities grow and commercial activity expands, financial institutions also evolve to meet customers where they are. The Utako Branch allows us to deliver our services to people in that community efficiently while maintaining the high standards our customers expect,”
The Utako location will provide a full suite of retail and corporate banking services, including account opening, deposits, transfers, business banking solutions, and financial advisory support.
Customers and members of the public are invited to visit the new Utako Branch to experience the Bank’s approach to satisfying banking.
Dangote Refinery Prioritises Domestic Supply Amid Global Energy Turbulence
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG
“Nigeria insulated from international fuel shocks as Dangote Petroleum commits to uninterrupted local delivery.”
Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has reaffirmed its commitment to prioritising the domestic market, pledging to shield Nigerians from the ripple effects of ongoing global energy disruptions. The assurance, delivered in Lagos on 5 March 2026, comes as international refinery operations experience shutdowns or reduced output due to escalating Middle East geopolitical tensions, which have sent crude oil and petroleum product prices soaring worldwide.
“Our mandate remains clear: Nigeria’s local market takes precedence. In times of global supply shocks, we will continue to ensure that domestic availability of petrol, diesel, and kerosene is uninterrupted,” said Mr. Folorunsho Alakija, spokesperson for Dangote Petroleum Refinery.
The refinery’s declaration arrives amid mounting concerns over fuel scarcity, triggered by export restrictions imposed by major international producers, including China, and shipping delays that have further tightened global petroleum supply chains. Industry analysts have hailed the domestic focus as a critical buffer against volatility that could otherwise push Nigeria into deeper energy insecurity.
Domestic Shield Against Global Disruption
Dangote Refinery, Africa’s largest oil processing facility, has leveraged its multi-million-barrel refining capacity to mitigate Nigeria’s historical dependence on imported petroleum products. The company emphasised that prioritising local supply provides a strategic advantage in insulating the nation from international market shocks.
“Our refinery’s scale allows Nigeria to withstand short-term external disruptions. We have the infrastructure and capacity to meet local demand even when global supply chains falter,” explained Mr. Chijioke Okonkwo, Operations Director at Dangote Refinery.
The proactive approach is particularly significant as several international refineries have either reduced throughput or temporarily halted operations, causing a global scarcity of refined products. Experts warn that without domestic cushioning, fuel prices in Nigeria could have surged sharply, exacerbating inflationary pressures in a fragile economy.
Managing Costs While Prioritising Supply
In response to rising procurement costs for crude oil amid the international crisis, Dangote Refinery introduced a modest ₦100 per litre increase in the ex-depot price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), absorbing roughly 20 percent of the cost escalation to lessen the impact on consumers.
“We are balancing operational sustainability with affordability. While global prices have risen sharply, we have chosen to absorb a significant portion to protect Nigerian households and businesses,” noted Mr. Emmanuel Adeyemi, Chief Finance Officer.
This pricing strategy underscores the refinery’s dual focus: ensuring uninterrupted supply while cushioning the public from abrupt spikes that could destabilize economic activity. Industry observers have lauded the approach as pragmatic, considering the volatility in international oil markets.
Strategic Distribution Initiatives
Beyond refining, Dangote Petroleum has initiated Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) powered trucks to enhance nationwide distribution efficiency. The initiative seeks to reduce logistics costs and carbon emissions while ensuring a more reliable delivery network to petrol stations across urban and rural areas.
“Logistics is a critical part of the energy supply chain. By deploying CNG-powered trucks, we reduce dependency on expensive diesel, lower delivery costs, and improve supply reliability across the country,” explained Ms. Funke Adedoyin, Head of Logistics Operations.
This strategic move reflects a broader commitment to modernising Nigeria’s petroleum distribution infrastructure, reducing bottlenecks that have historically contributed to scarcity at retail outlets.
Implications for National Energy Security
Nigeria has historically struggled with fuel imports to meet domestic demand, making the country vulnerable to international market fluctuations. Dangote Refinery’s prioritisation of local supply mitigates this vulnerability by leveraging home-grown refining capacity, which allows for timely access to petroleum products and less reliance on foreign shipments.
“With Dangote Refinery leading local prioritisation, Nigeria is less exposed to global fuel shocks. The country is moving towards self-reliance in petroleum product supply,” commented Dr. Halima Suleiman, energy sector analyst.
Experts note that sustained operations at the refinery not only enhance energy security but also preserve foreign exchange, reduce import bills, and stabilise domestic market prices.
Corporate Social Responsibility and Market Stability
The refinery’s commitment is part of a broader corporate responsibility framework. Dangote Petroleum continues to engage with government agencies and regulatory bodies, ensuring that domestic supply is coordinated with Nigeria’s Petroleum Product Pricing and Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) to prevent panic buying and market distortions.
“We are in constant consultation with the government to ensure that our supply strategies align with national economic priorities,” said Mr. Alakija.
Such collaboration helps avert artificial shortages, stabilises pump prices, and maintains confidence in the domestic fuel market. Analysts argue that this approach exemplifies how private sector capabilities can complement governmental policies to enhance national resilience.
Navigating Global Uncertainties
The refinery operates in a complex global environment, where geopolitical crises, shipping constraints, and crude oil volatility can trigger disruptions. Dangote Petroleum’s domestic-first approach positions Nigeria to weather such crises more effectively.
“Global uncertainties are unavoidable, but our infrastructure and strategy ensure that Nigerians remain insulated from immediate shocks,” said Mr. Okonkwo.
This emphasis on resilience aligns with global best practices, where national refining capacity is leveraged to protect local markets from international supply disruptions.
Stakeholder Reactions
The government, civil society, and industry stakeholders have welcomed Dangote Petroleum’s strategy. Officials from the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources noted that prioritising local supply aligns with Nigeria’s energy security policies and reduces the burden of foreign exchange expenditures on crude imports.
“Dangote Refinery is demonstrating leadership. Its domestic prioritisation ensures that the Nigerian economy remains insulated during turbulent global markets,” said Dr. Tunji Olumide, Special Adviser on Energy.
Consumers have also expressed cautious optimism. Retail operators and commuters reported steadier fuel availability in Lagos and other cities, though concerns remain about sustained pricing and distribution efficiency.
The Road Ahead
While Dangote Refinery’s strategy provides immediate relief, experts argue that long-term stability requires further investments in alternative energy, diversified refining infrastructure, and strategic reserves. This ensures that Nigeria can withstand global shocks without relying excessively on imports or temporary supply adjustments.
“Short-term measures like prioritising local supply are critical, but long-term energy security demands diversification, renewables adoption, and consistent policy implementation,” said Dr. Suleiman.
The refinery is exploring additional initiatives, including expanding storage capacity, upgrading pipeline networks, and adopting technology-driven monitoring systems to ensure supply continuity across the country.
Final Take
By prioritising domestic fuel supply amid global market turbulence, Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has demonstrated its role as a stabilising force in Nigeria’s energy sector. Through strategic logistics, modest pricing adjustments, and engagement with government regulators, the refinery is insulating the nation from international shocks while maintaining operational sustainability.
“Our responsibility extends beyond profitability; it’s about ensuring Nigerians have reliable access to essential fuel. We take that mandate seriously,” concluded Mr. Adeyemi.
The refinery’s actions offer a blueprint for how large-scale domestic capacity can protect national economies in times of global energy instability, underscoring the critical intersection of private sector resilience, public policy, and national energy security.
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