Worship

No rift with CAN, says Northern Christian group

Published

2 weeks ago

March 8, 2026

Rev. Joseph Hayab, Chairman of the Northern Christian Forum (also known as the Northern Christian Association, NCA), has dismissed claims that the group was formed due to disagreements between Northern Christian leaders and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).
It will be recalled that a news report went viral, where it was alleged that the northern Christian group, Northern Christian Association (NCA), had excused itself from the national body, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).
Stating the true position, Hayab explained that the decision to adopt the name Northern Christian Association was made following advice from the national leadership of CAN to avoid confusion with the existing structure of the association.
“It was the Christian Association of Nigeria that suggested we should not continue to use the name ‘Northern CAN’ so that the public would not be confused when issues are discussed in the media,” he said.
He stressed that churches in Northern Nigeria remain fully aligned with CAN, noting that there is no conflict between the regional forum and the national body.
“All churches in the North are with the CAN and are also with us because we are one body. We are not fighting, and we remain active members of CAN. Therefore, there is no need for anyone to broker peace where there is no disagreement,” Hayab stated.
Providing historical context, he noted that the Northern Christian Forum predates CAN, having existed since 1964. According to him, the recent development simply marks a return to its original identity.
Hayab disclosed that the matter was discussed during a meeting with CAN leadership on October 23 last year, where stakeholders agreed that adopting a distinct name would help avoid media confusion.
He also expressed deep respect for the President of CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, describing him as a leader whom Northern Christians hold in high regard.
“Archbishop Okoh is the last person anyone would want to hurt. The stories about friction are completely out of context. Some people are simply trying to create a rift where there is none,” he said.
Hayab further clarified that the Northern Christian Forum is not opposed to the government, contrary to claims in some quarters. Instead, he said the group remains committed to speaking truthfully to authorities in the interest of national development.
“We are known for telling the government the truth for the sake of the country. Every responsible government should welcome people who can speak honestly rather than those who pretend everything is fine while the nation suffers,” he added.
He noted that while CAN remains capable of addressing national issues, the realities in Northern Nigeria sometimes require focused regional engagement.
According to him, the forum seeks to strengthen advocacy on issues affecting Christians in the region, including religious freedom, access to education, shortage of Christian Religious Knowledge (CRK) teachers, and limited admission opportunities for Christian students in some areas.
The organisation comprises Christian leaders from the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
“We remain part of CAN. The national body addresses issues affecting Christians across the country, while we focus on matters affecting Northern Christians,” he said.
He added that the word “Nigeria” was deliberately excluded from the revived name out of respect for the parent body, noting that the forum has now been formally registered and incorporated as the Forum of Northern Christians and the FCT.
“Our focus is to ensure that Christians in Northern Nigeria enjoy equal rights and opportunities to contribute meaningfully to national development,” Hayab said.

Worship

Why I’m still relevant, by Adeboye

Published

3 weeks ago

March 7, 2026

The Exclusives

As the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, clocked 84 last week, he took time to reveal some of his life secrets.

Despite his tight schedule and old age, he has continued to be active, without any sign of weakness.

But last week, he unravelled some of the mysteries surrounding his life.

In a recent devotional message titled ‘Forget and Press Forward,’ published in the RCCG daily devotional Open Heavens, the cleric shared the secret behind his enduring relevance.

“I turn 84 today, and by God’s grace, I am still doing exploits in His kingdom because I have learnt not to hang on to the past,” he said.

Adeboye emphasised that dwelling on past successes or failures can hinder spiritual growth.

Referencing biblical teachings, he encouraged believers to rely on God’s “mercies that are new every morning” and continually pursue fresh spiritual renewal.

Meanwhile, tributes have continued to pour in from Christian leaders and ministries across the world.

Koinonia Global described Adeboye as a father in faith whose ministry has refreshed nations and strengthened the global church.

“We give thanks to God for 84 impactful years marked by a life that has revived hearts and exalted the name of Jesus across the earth,” the ministry said.

Adeboye’s son, Leke Adeboye, also reflected on his father’s enduring dedication.

“Even at 84, my father still shows up daily without excuses. His dreams and vision keep him going. He remains fully submitted to God and continues to serve with joy. What a legacy,” he said.

Born in 1942, Adeboye joined RCCG in the early 1970s as an interpreter for the church’s founder, Josiah Olufemi Akindayomi.

In 1981, he succeeded him as the General Overseer.

Under his leadership, RCCG transformed from a relatively small Nigerian church into a global evangelical movement.

Today, the church operates thousands of parishes across Africa, Europe, the Americas, Asia, and the Middle East.

Beyond evangelism, the church has established schools, universities, health centres, and numerous humanitarian programmes aimed at addressing social and economic challenges.

Worship

Gospel music, tool for healing, says Tosin Bee

Published

4 weeks ago

February 28, 2026

The Exclusives

Widely travelled Nigerian gospel artist, Oluwatosin Adejumobi, aka Tosin Bee ,’ has said that contrary to opinion held in certain quarters, music and ministry are intertwined.

“They flow from the same purpose. My artistry is an extension of my ministry, so when I create music, I’m not switching hats; I’m expressing the same calling in a different language,” he said.

While being intentional with his time, spiritual life, he revealed that prayer, service to humanity, and obedience to God has continued to guide the kind of music he makes and the platforms he accepts.

“When God is at the center, everything else finds its place naturally. For me, music becomes a tool, not a distraction, and ministry becomes impactful beyond the four walls of the church.”

Tosin Bee’s praise songs, including ‘Adurotini,’ ‘More Than Able’, and ‘Songs of Joy,’ have enjoyed both acceptance and review in different quarters.

“We just released the third instalment of our signature live praise recording known as ‘Praise Unlimited 3.’

This is coming after the resounding success of ‘Praise Unlimited Volumes 1 and 2,’ which millions have enjoyed all over the world. According to Tosin Bee, ‘Praise Unlimited 3’ represents a significant milestone in the ‘Praise Unlimited’ series.’

He disclosed that the project showcased the remarkable growth and development his team, BeezleNation, has had.

While many find it difficult to balance career and other aspects of life, such as family and personal time, the gospel artist said he had done very well by being intentional and setting priorities.

“As much as music is a big part of my life, it cannot come before God, family and personal well-being. These are things I’m deliberate about – because they keep me grounded.”

On the up-and-coming artists, Tosin Bee advised that they should focus on building relationships with God, nurture it, grow it, and then they can start working on their platforms.

“Our type of music is not just about having a good voice or being talented; you have to work on ensuring your music carries a positive message, and that your lifestyle reflects what you sing and minister.”

He believes that gospel music plays a major role in society, especially at a time when people are facing different challenges– including economic uncertainty and emotional struggles.

“Our music brings hope, reassurance, and a reminder of God’s presence.

“It’s a tool for healing, encouragement, and spiritual awakening. Gospel music helps shape values, strengthen faith, and unite people across different backgrounds. In Nigeria, particularly, it has become a voice that speaks peace, resilience, and purpose to the nation. It reminds us of who we are, where our help comes from, and the fact that God is still very much involved in our everyday lives,‘ he disclosed.

Worship

Six years after # EndSARS, Lagos pastor seeks help to rebuild razed church

Published

4 weeks ago

February 28, 2026

The Exclusives

Six years after his church was destroyed during the October 2020 #EndSARS unrest, the founder of CAC, Warrior for Christ Mission, Fagba, Lagos, Prophet Dr Solomon Olukunmi Ajao (JP), has renewed his appeal to the Federal and Lagos State Governments, non-governmental organisations and well-meaning Nigerians for assistance to rebuild the worship centre.

The cleric said the church building, located at 9 Railway Line, off Jonathan Coker Road, Fagba Junction, was set ablaze by hoodlums on October 21, 2020, at the height of the protests. His newly purchased Subaru Jeep was also destroyed in the inferno.

According to him, the total value of the property lost runs into tens of millions of naira.

“I am using this opportunity again to appeal to the Lagos State Government to help us rebuild the church that was set ablaze during the #EndSARS protest so that we can continue to propagate the gospel of Christ in a conducive atmosphere,” Ajao said.

The prophet, who said he had spent over 30 years in ministry, stressed that he had never previously sought public assistance.

“For over three decades in God’s vineyard, I have not done anything shady to tarnish my image. I have not gone to anyone for help because God has been faithful to us. I don’t exploit my members. I always tell them to give according to their capacity because God loves a cheerful giver,” he said.

Since the destruction, the congregation has been worshipping outdoors.

“We have been worshipping under the sun. During the rainy season, it is even worse; many times, we get drenched during services. It was through voluntary donations that we managed to put up a temporary tent,” he explained.

Ajao added that after nearly three years of holding services under a makeshift canopy, the church was partially rebuilt through sacrificial contributions from members.

According to him, a modest six-by-six block structure was erected and roofed with salvaged burnt corrugated sheets, work he said he personally supervised and executed.

Recounting the events that led to the attack, the Oyo State-born cleric linked the incident to tensions in the area that predated the protests.

He said a dispute arose after a food vendor was allowed by the local Baale to operate in front of the church premises, a development he opposed.

He claimed that disagreements between the church and the food sellers escalated, creating resentment.

During the #EndSARS unrest, he alleged, the church became an easy target.

“Everything was burnt to ashes, including the car I had just bought. The structure became unsafe and needs to be completely demolished,” he said.

It was gathered that violence later erupted in the area following disputes over levies imposed on truck drivers transporting cows from the North to the Lagos abattoir, which reportedly heightened ethnic tensions and led to the destruction of several properties.

Ajao said no fewer than 25 buildings were affected.

He disclosed that top government officials, including Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, visited the scene after the incident.

“They came, took pictures and gave some money to petty traders,” he alleged, adding that although some victims were later compensated, his church was not.

Ajao said he submitted all required documents to the Lagos State Government office in Oregun, Ikeja, and was informed that his name appeared on the list of beneficiaries.

He explained that professional quantity surveyors initially assessed his loss at about ₦80 million, but the figure was later reviewed downward by officials to ₦48.7 million.

“Since then, I have not received a dime,” he said.

In a final appeal, Ajao urged the government and kind-hearted Nigerians to come to his aid.

“We are almost exposed whenever it rains, and there is no place to hide. If the government can help us reconstruct the church, it will be my joy. If not, they should find an alternative way to compensate us for this great loss,” he said.