Lead Pastor of Good Tidings Bible Church International, Dayo Olutayo leading prayer during the prayer programme in Abuja

By Bridget Ikyado

Lead Pastor of Good Tidings Bible Church International, Dayo Olutayo, says the country’s forthcoming elections will be the turning point for the nation.

According to him, the success and choice of leaders will promote peace, unity and development of the country.

Olutayo made this known at the Church’s National Day of Prayers to seek divine intervention in the affairs of the country.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Church invited all candidates for the 2023 general elections to the prayer day.
The clergy said that the challenges the nation had faced would be wiped off as the church prays and the elections would be held successfully.
He said success would be the portion of all contestants with the will of God at heart, and meeting the desires of the people.
“Nigeria will witness a turnaround in all sectors.
“All participants, voters and those to be voted for, security agencies will be safe during this period,” he said.
He said that the prayer was to implore God’s help in preventing violence, manipulation, intimidation of voters and other electoral crimes in the forthcoming elections.
“We consider this imperative in view of the fact that our nation is passing through very challenging times at the moment, despite its abundant natural, human, and material resources.
“Nigeria is a vibrant and virile land that is full of colours, wealth and all that it will take to be one of the greatest nations on earth.
“Sadly, the country has not yet reached where it should be at the moment due to some inherent problems,” he said.
The pastor prayed God to use the programme to address the spiritual dimensions of the challenges plaguing the nation and frustrate every evil plan against the unity of the people.
He told those vying for political office to bear in mind that they were signing a contract with the soul of Nigerians and God was their witness.
He also warned politicians against inciting youths to fight, kill or destroy property.
The clergy listed some points to note by the incoming leaders in the country.
He said the subject history should not just be fully retired from schools curriculum but be made a compulsory subject for all students.
He called for the enhancement of teachers salaries, and urged leaders to know that “the call to serve is from God, and there are repercussions to abuse any office”.
“Elections are not a do or die affair, let all parties accept results and move on.
“Let us all never stop praying for the nation and believing in it,” he said.
The cleric said the “Japa” syndrome would reverse with all the wealth and knowledge that Nigerians would bring back to Nigeria from those nations.
In his speech Mr Iheanyi Uzoma, the National Coordinator, Intercessors for Nigeria said the essence of the prayer was to reinforce the fact that this coming elections would be a turning point for Nigeria.
He said Nigerians should believe, respect and trust God for a rebirth of a completely new Nigeria that would function in the principles of righteousness and justice.
He urged the electorate to see the elections as a moment of destiny “that has come upon us”.
“This is a time to take back our nation, vote in people who have capacity, who are credible and competent.
“The elections has nothing to do with tribalism, religious persuasions and leaning,” he said.
Also, Dr. Chukwuemeka Ugboaja, INEC’s Deputy Director, Voter Education and Publicity said the commission was ready for a smooth and fair elections.
Ugboaja said information from security agencies too confirmed the readiness to secure life and property.
“There is no doubt about the fact that INEC is ready for a hitch-free general elections.
“The commission is going half-way in electronics with the use of BEVAS.
“The mock demonstration of BEVAS had no failure.
“INEC engineers designed the BEVAS and the engineers will be on ground everywhere to check, reconnect and replace any faulty machine.
“Transmission of results at polling units level and transmitting to INEC report viewing portals are all heights of transparency INEC has adopted,” he said.
Ugboaja commended the church for complementing all the plans with prayers and sensitisation of voters too.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Grace Yussuf

By Polycarp Auta

Most Rev. Michael Gokum, the Catholic Bishop of Pankshin in Plateau, has advised Nigerians to vote visionary and credible leaders in the forthcoming general elections.

Gokum, spoke at the 2023 Lenten Campaign Launch of the diocese on Sunday in Pankshin.

The bishop, who was represented by Rev. Fr. Paul Watpe, the Vicar General of diocese, decried the bad state of things in the nation, hence the need for good leaders emerge in the forthcoming polls.

”It is not a secret that Nigerians are suffering, a lot of things are not right in this country; today kidnapping, banditry, armed robbery, killings and other forms of insecurity have taken over our land.

”Nobody is safe, nothing seems to be working because of corruption and the self centredness of those in authority.

”Our roads have become dead traps, our farmers can’t go to their farms and we can’t sleep with our eyes closed.

”So, I want to call on Nigerians to vote visionary and credible leaders in the forthcoming elections; vote leaders who mean well and will help this country to attain its full potentials,” Gokum said.

The bishop advised Nigerians not to sell their votes, but ensure they votes those with capacity to move this country to the next level

”I was told politicians are moving from house to house giving peanuts to people and to collect their Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs)

”Please, do not sell your votes because doing so makes you someone without a right; voting during elections is one of the ways we can chase away bad politicians,” he said.

On the lenten campaign, the bishop said the event aimed at raising funds to support the the poor and less privileged ones in the society, particularly victims of attacks in rural communities.

Gokum explained that the Justice Development and Peace Commission (JDPC), the social arm of the church had been providing succour to those in the need, hence the funds raised at the lenten campaign would be used for that purpose.

The bishop advised Christians to regularly support the poor and needy in the society, adding that God rewards a cheerful giver.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 2023 Lenten campaign launch had the theme “Rebuilding Nigeria: A citizen Consensus at Engaging Post-Election Leaders”. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Maureen Atuonwu

By Salisu Sani-Idris

The Management Committee of the National Assembly Central Mosque, Legislators’ Quarters, Abuja, has appointed Sheikh Sufyan Malumfashi, as the new Chief Imam of the mosque.

The Secretary of the Mosque Management Committee, Malam Mansur Jarkasa, said in a statement on Sunday in Abuja that the appointment took effect from Feb. 1.

The appointment came about 10 months after the disengagement of Sheikh Muhammad Nuru-Khalid as Chief Imam of the mosque in April 2022.

According to Jarkasa, the new appointment was endorsed by the mosque’s management committee headed by Sen. Saidu Dansadau and his deputy, Abubakar Bawa-Bwari.

He said that the committee “after all necessary due diligence, consultation with stakeholders and due process resolved to unanimously appoint Sheikh Sufyan Malumfashi as the new Chief Imam of the mosque.”

Jarkasa said Sheikh Malumfashi had served as the Chief Imam of Area 11 Jumu’at Mosque, and was at the Saudi Arabian Consulate Office, Asokoro, as Jumma’at prayer imam.

The secretary said Sheikh Malumfashi is currently a visiting Jumu’at Imam of Al-Noor mosque, Wuse II, all in Abuja.

“Shiekh Malumfashi is presently the Deputy Ameer (Chairman) of the FCT Committee of Imams.

“He coordinate Da’awah activities on behalf of an International Donor Agency in six African countries

“He hails from Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State and obtained his first degree in Islamic Studies from the Islamic University of Medina in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

“Similarly, the new chief imam of the National Assembly Central Mosque, Zone, E, Legislators’ Quarters Apo, got his second degree from the Nasarawa State University, Keffi and is happily married with children.” (NAN)

Edited by Maharazu Ahmed

By Salisu Sani-Idris

The FCT Minister, Malam Muhammad Bello, has commended the International Centre for Islamic Culture and Education (ICICE), custodian of Al-Noor mosque, Abuja, for promoting Islamic culture and education in West Africa.

Bello made the commendation at the 10th Anniversary of ICICE and Al-Noor Mosque Dinner in honour of major donors of its ongoing expansion project to increase the capacity of the mosque from 1,000 to 12,000 worshippers, held on Saturday in Abuja.

Represented by Alhaji Mukhtar Galadima, the Director, Department of Development Control of FCTA, the minister said the centre had become a hub for scholars, researchers and students of Islamic studies, who come from far and wide to learn about the rich heritage and teachings of Islam.

Bello observed that in last decade, the centre has also successfully organised numerous conferences, workshops and seminars, aimed at promoting peace, tolerance and understanding among different religious communities.

“Over the last 10 years the Centre has made tremendous strides in promoting Islamic culture and education, not just in Nigeria, but also in the wider West African region.

“Your contributions have made it possible for the centre to achieve its mission, provide meals and medical outreach for those in need and we remember very well your generous contributions during our fight against COVID-19.

“Your contributions without doubt have provided the centre with the resources it needs to continue its important work, expand its programmes and to bring its services to even more people.”

The minister also commended the centre’s flagship school, the Al-Noor Academy, which had become one of the best educational institutions in the FCT, renowned for positively moulding the character and intellect of young Nigerians who pass through its walls.

“Through its efforts I am also informed, the centre has become a platform for inter-faith dialogue, where people of different beliefs can come together to learn from each other and find common ground.

“This plays well with the principles on which the FCT is founded; which is unity, tolerance and the indivisibility of our country and we are proud to be associated with the laudable achievements of the ICICE in this regard.

“It is on this premise that I once again congratulate Prof. Ibrahim Sulaiman, the Chairman Board of Trustees of the ICICE, other members of the board as well as its management and staff for their efforts in living up to the ideals of this institution.”

Earlier, the Founder of the mosque and the centre, Alhaji Aminu Baba-Kusa, while reflecting on the mandate, vision and mission of the ICICE, said: “I’m intrigued by the laudable achievements recorded so far, which are in line with my vision and aspirations.”

Represented by his son, Alhaji Mahmud Baba-Kusa, he also expressed delight on reflecting where the centre was 10 years ago, “where we are now and where we’re going.

“I can see the centre touching the life of the community through the provision of quality education, authentic Islamic knowledge and the propagation of knowledge on Islamic Banking and Finance, and related Capital Market products.

“Today we are celebrating the contributions made by the donors for Al-Noor Masjid Expansion project. The trajectory is to increase the capacity from 1,000 to 12,000 worshippers.

“This is indeed a remarkable milestone that should be supported and celebrated. It is a very joyful day for me and pray to Allah SWT for a successful completion of this project.”

On his part, Dr Mele Kyari, the Chairman, ICICE Advisory Committee and Group Executive Officer, NNPC Ltd., enjoined all Muslims to endeavour to secure a house for themselves in paradise by contributing towards the completion of the ongoing Al-Noor masjid expansion project.

Kyari assured that the committee would intensify efforts and continue to reach out to the Muslims to donate and support the project.

The Director-General of the centre, Dr Kabir Usman, also commended the major donors who earlier contributed about N2.2 billion to the ongoing project which was on course.

“Initially, we booked, planned and asked for donation of about N3.15 billion and at a go we generated about N2.2 billion and now we are on course but we know the prices of building materials and whatever has increased.

“So, we are targeting completing the project by the end of this year when we have to spend positively between N5 and N6 billion and that is the challenges that we have got and that is why we said people should contribute in cash and also in kind.

“Therefore, we need to celebrate that success and tell them what we have done with their money because transparency and accountability is a critical ingredient if we want to imbibe the culture of honesty and integrity, and that is what we have done today.”

The former Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Dr Shamsudeen Usman, who stressed the importance of transparency and accountability, assured donors that their money was being utilised properly.

He explained that the project was being implemented with the best international standard, adding that when the project s completed “we will do a detail technical report”.

Sen. Mohammed Sanusi Dagash, former Minister of Works, also said “it is in the interest of all muslims to support our religion so that those who will come after us will meet a responsible society.

“We are here to ensure that the project succeed and impact positively on the lives of the Muslim community.”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the highpoint of the event was the presentation of awards to those who contributed immensely to the growth and development of the masjid and the centre since inception. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Muhammad Suleiman Tola

By Salisu Sani-Idris

An Abuja-based Islamic cleric, Sheikh Yahya Al-Yolawi, on Friday emphasised the need for Muslims to exhibit good character in dealings with all human beings regardless of their social status in the society.

Al-Yolawi, who is the Chief Imam of Nurul Yaqeen Jumma’at Mosque Life Camp Abuja, gave the advice while delivering his Jumma’at sermon titled,” the Significance of Good Manners in Islam.”

The cleric said that good character would be the heaviest righteous deed to be placed on a person’s scale of deeds on the day of judgement.

According to him, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)said no deed would be placed on the scale of deeds on the day of judgement will be heavier than good character.

Al-Yolawi added: “Indeed, a person with good character will attain the rank of those with a good record of voluntary fasts and prayers.

” It is one of the deeds that leads people to enter paradise the most.

“When the Prophet was asked about which act leads people to enter paradise the most, he replied, piety and good character.”

Al-Yolawi said that perfection of noble character was one of the most important objectives of the Prophet Muhammad’s (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) mission to the world.

He said: “The Prophet Muhammad once declared I have been sent to perfect noble character.

“This statement makes it clear that one of the reasons behind the Prophet’s mission was to elevate and perfect the moral character of the individual and society.

“Noble character is part and parcel of belief when asked about the best of the believers, the Prophet replied that they are those who have the best characters and manners.

” In fact, the Qur’an uses the comprehensive Arabic word birr to refer to faith. As the Qur’an stated righteousness (birr) does not lie in turning your faces during prayer to the East or to the West.

“Rather, those with true devoutness are the ones who believe in Allah, the Last Day, the angels, the Book and the Prophets.”

According to Al-Yolawi every time Allah commands the believers to perform an act of worship, He draws their attention to its moral significance or its positive effect on the individual and society.

The cleric said: “Examples of this are numerous and include the followings; the prayer: “ establish the prayer, for the prayer restrains from shameful and unjust deeds.”

Al-Yolawi also said the Muslim faithful pay the obligatory charity payment, Zakkat from their wealth to purify and cleanse themselves with the act.

He added: “Besides showing kindness and giving comfort to people, zakaat refines benefactor’s character and purges it from evil practices.

” Indeed, noble character characterised muslims’ relationship with all members of society: There is no difference whatsoever between rich and poor, black and white, Arab and non-Arab, or a prince and a pauper.

” Allah commands us to show kindness and courtesy to everyone without exception, for justice, kindness and mercy are aspects of good character which a muslim observes in his words and deeds with Muslims and non-Muslims alike.

” A Muslim ought to embody good character traits as a means to call others to this great religion of Islam and noble character is not confined only to human beings.” (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

Stakeholders at the Intl Human Fraternity Day Celebration in Abuja.

By Bridget Ikyado

His Eminence, Cardinal John Onaiyekan, has advised Nigerian leaders to promote human dignity and oneness in line with the Human Fraternity Rules to enhance peace in the country.

Onaiyekan gave the advice in a key note address to mark the International Day of Human Fraternity.

The event, which held at the Catholic Secretariat on Tuesday in Abuja, was organised by the Department of Mission and Dialogue, supported by Caritas Nigeria.

It had the theme ‘Interfaith Relations in Nigeria; Diversity, Dynamism and Strength’.

The Document on Human Fraternity for World Peace and Living Together is also known as the Abu Dhabi Declaration.

The Declaration was signed by Pope Francis and Sheikh Ahmed el-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, on February 4, 2019 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirate.

The cardinal outlined 11 points which should be adopted by individuals and leaders to promote unity, peace and progress in every society.

He listed the points to include belief in the oneness of God, human dignity and equality before the law, religious diversity, and the importance of family in building a nation.

Others included care for children nurtured through marriage, and abhorrence of homosexuality in any form.

“Respect of human life is absolute; abortion, mercy killing and murder are crimes and sin,” Onaiyekan said.

He noted that the document was emphatic on the fact that there should be no killing in any form in the name of God, and declared that terrorists were ungodly and irreligious.

Onaiyekan said that every responsible person and leader should condemn kidnapping and other forms of terror as part of the drive to ensure a peaceful society.

“The dignity of women is to be recognised and women are to be given full dignity,” he said, adding that leaders should expunge laws that undermine women.

Onaiyekan also prayed for peaceful and successful elections in Nigeria.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event had lay faithful, clergymen and other stakeholders who sued for peace and unity in the country. (NAN)(www.nannnews.ng)

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Edited by Ephraim Sheyin

Clergymen at the prayer meeting 

By Bridget Ikyado

The Archbishop of Methodist Church Abuja, His Grace, Michael Akinwale and some other clerics on Saturday urged Nigerians to pray for free, fair and credible elections in the country.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the clergymen made the appeal during a prayer meeting organised by the National Hospital Abuja Chapel, in collaboration with Green Flames Film and Television Academy.

Akinwale said the present situation in the country necessitated prayers for the peaceful conduct of the general elections.

The Archbishop who preached on the topic “The battle Christians face in politics”, believed that only fervent prayers of the righteous would prevent any form of violence or distractions.

He prayed God to give Nigerians peace, guidance and understanding to make informed choices of political leaders during the general elections.

According to him, the only solution to bad governance is the election of righteous leaders.

He said God will not forsake Nigeria, adding that “God is looking for men and women who will stand in the gap, as the scarcity of righteousness makes evil prevail.”

Similarly, the Presiding Bishop of the Dominion Chapel International Church, John-Praise Daniel, advised Nigerians to shun politics of bitterness.

“We need to remember that peace and unity has bonded us together and no politics of bitterness should try to separate us.

“We have to engage in issue based politics; Only God should choose our leaders.

“Let us shun politics of tribe, bitterness and religion, we must vote right to change the narrative, so we can put our nation back on track,” he said.

Also, Pastor Godwin Idowu, Presiding Elder of the National Hospital Chapel, reminded Nigerians that their unity was sacrosanct.

”As we pray and prepare to vote, it is good we note that the nation needs a servant leader, the nation needs people with the heart to sacrifice,” he said.

The Founder and President, Green Flames Film and Television Academy, Appiah Simon, said the event was organised to pray for the nation ahead of the elections.

She added that the event would be used to enlighten the youths on the dangers of electoral violence.

“We have NYSC members and various groups of youth here and they form the majority in the electoral process, so we will use the avenue to talk to them.”

She urged Nigerians to vote competence and integrity, while advising all politicians to avoid politics of rancour.

A film maker, Dimbo Atiya, who spoke on the role of the media in the electoral process, urged journalists to abide by the ethics of the profession, as their reports could make or mar a nation.

NAN reports that prayers were offered for the country and INEC to conduct peaceful and free elections.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Maharazu Ahmed