Photos: Delta State celebrates her 25 years Anniversary

Governor Okowa was joined by dignitaries from parts of Delta State and beyond as the state celebrated its 25 years of existence at Delta State Stadium in state capital Asaba today.

Delta State Leadership Since 1999

Delta State Leaders


DeltaState was carved out of the former Bendel State on August 27th 1991 . The state was created following agitations for the creation of separate distinct states by the Urhobos and Anioma regions. The then Military President, Gen Ibrahim Babangida (Rtd) created the state using the name "Delta" advanced by Niger Delta region as "Asaba" another name advanced by the people of Anioma for the capital of the proposed "Anioma state." Delta state was once integrated in the Mid Western state from 1963 to 1976 and later Bendel state, from 1976 to 1991. The name "Bendel" (Ben-Del) meant Benin-Delta to reflect the integration of Benin and Delta provinces.

Delta is an oil producing state of Nigeria situated in the region known as the Niger Delta, South-South Geo-political zone with a population of 4,098,291 (Males: 2,674,306 Females: 2,024,085 (see Federal Republic of Nigeria, Official gazette, No. 24, vol. 94, 2007.) Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the former Federal Minister of Finance and World Bank Managing Director is from this state. The capital city is Asaba located at the northern end of the state with an estimated area of 762 km2,while Warri is economic nerve of the state and also the most populated located in the southern end of the state. The state has a total land area of 16,842 km2.

Delta RIVER ETHIOPE

An urhobo Man

Historical Development: The area called Delta State was once an integral part of the old Western Region of Nigeria. It became an autonomous entity on August 27, 1991 after having been part of the old Midwestern State (1963 1976) and the defunct Bendel State (1976 1991).

Delta State started with twelve local government areas. These were split further into nineteen local governments on September 27, 1991, and to twentyfive LGAs in 1997. Asaba, located at the northern end of the state, is the capital. A master plan for Asaba Capital Territory, with an estimated area of 762 sq. km and designed to transform Asaba into a modern metrop olis, is being pursued by the state government.
Location: Delta State lies roughly between longitudes 5°00 and 6°45'E and latitudes 5°00 and 6°30'N. It has a total land area of 16,842 sq. km. The states bordering Delta State are Edo to the north, Ondo to the northwest, Anambra to the east and Bayelsa and Rivers to the southeast. On its southern flank is 160 km of the coastline of the Bight of Benin.
Administrative Areas: Delta State currently has twentyfive local government areas. They are: Aniocha North, Aniocha South, Bomadi, Burutu, Ethiope East, Ethiope West, lka NorthEast, lka South, Isoko North, Isoko South, Ndokwa East, Ndokwa West Okpe, Oshimili North Oshimili South, Patani, Sapele, Udu, Ughelli North, Ughelli South, Ukwani, Uvwie, Warri North, Warri South and Warri SouthWest.
Administrative Structure: Delta State runs a twotier system of government namely; the state government and the local government administration.
The State Government: There are three arms of government which include the executive council, the legislature and the judiciary. The executive council comprises the Governor, Deputy Governor, seven commissioners, special advisers and the secretary to the state government. The commissioners head the ministries while the directorates and parastatals are organs in the office of the governor and deputy governor, respectively.
The special advisers are assigned responsibilities usually in the following areas: information, paras tatals, education, health, commerce and industry. The Delta State House of Assembly is the leg islative or lawmaking arm of the government. Currently, the membership of the State House of Assembly is fifty.
The Chief Judge of the state heads the state's judiciary. The judiciary is organised around a sys tem of courts, which are of three different kinds namely the High Court, the Magistrates' Court and the Customary Court. There is also a Customary Court of Appeal to hear appeal cases from the Customary Courts.
The Local Government: The second tier of government, is the local government administration. It consists of two arms of government in each of the local government administration. The first, the executive committee comprises the chairman of the local government, the deputy chairman, supervisors and secretary to the local government. The second, the legislative council is the lawmaking arm of the local government. The principal officers of the legislative council are; the speaker, deputy speaker, majority and minority leaders.
People & Culture
Delta State has an estimated population of about 4.2 million with Urhobo, Itesekiri, Ijaw (Izon), Isoko and Anioma (Igbo) as the main ethnic groups. These groups share ancestral and traditional administrative systems, evident in their dress, language, festivals, music and folklore. The people are hospitable, enlightened, resourceful and hardworking.

Anioma festival in Asaba

Weather/Climate
Delta State is situated in the tropics and therefore experiences a fluctuating climate, ranging from the humid tropical in the south, to the subhumid in the northeast. The lessening of humidity towards the north is accompanied by an increasingly marked dry season. The average rainfall is about 266.5mm in the coastal areas and 190.5mm in the extreme north. Rainfall is heaviest in July. Temperature increases from the south to the north. In Warri, located in the south for example, the average daily temperature is 30°C, while the temperature in Asaba in the north eastern area is 44°C.

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
Asaba Beach
The beauty of Delta State is held together by the dozens of rivers, streams and creeks which crisscross it. The majestic Niger, one of the most famous rivers of Africa, washes the shores of the capital city, Asaba. Further downstream, it breaks into the dozens of creeks through which it empties itself into the Atlantic. During the dry season, the golden sandbanks of the Niger are a sight to behold and ideal for relaxation.
Abraka Turf & Country Club
This is arguably the only equestrian leisure club in Nigeria and it usually hosts an International Polo Tournament, which takes place annually during Easter weekend. Here visitors can go horse riding or walk along the nature trail above the banks of the Ethiope river, swimming and fishing.
River Ethiope Source
River Ethiope, reputed to be the deepest inland waterway in Africa, has its source at the foot of a giant silk-cotton tree at Umuaja in Ukwuani local government area and it then flows through seven Local Government Areas in the state. By the time it reaches Sapele, it has become deep enough to provide a harbour for ocean-going vessels.
Kwale Game Reserve
This reserve is situated in the low coastal zone of Delta State, characterized by rainforest vegetation and deltaic swamps. It is rich in reptiles and water associated animals, particularly red river hog, sitatunga and a variety of brackish, marine and freshwater fish species.
Jamieson River
A trip up the Jamieson River is a pleasant outing. If you cannot hire a boat it is possible to get to Jamieson River at Sapoda by car, where there is a pleasant picnic spot. The river up stream from Sapoba is beautifully clear and suitable for swimming, although the water is surprisingly very cold.
Chief Nana’s Palace Living History Museum, Koko
This is national monument also known as “koko palace” located at the port of Koko in Warri North, it is a monument that attracts thousands of tourists. It was the residence of Chief Nana Olomu Eborhimi of the Itsekiri tribe, who was a powerful nineteenth century indigenous entrepreneur.
Leisure Paradise Amusement Park, Ekpan
Located in Ekpan, Effurun, it’s a place to head for a family day off around Warri. With a newly built roller coaster, a flying elephant ride and waters slides, it’s great for kids. For the adult there’s the tumbler tower, horse bark riding or one should just take a walk round the park or enjoy a nice drink while listening to cool music.
Olona Ranch & Holiday Resort, Onicha-Olona
The ranch is noted for its traditional African setting with facilities for accommodation, conferences and recreation. The ranch is an ideal place for those who wish to escape the hustling and bustling of city life. Some of its attraction includes, fishing, swimming, bird watching and sumptuous Delta dishes.
Royal Palace, Idumuje-Ugboko
This is the palace of the Obi (traditional ruler) which was built over 150 years ago. Only laterite and traditional construction techniques were used in its construction. The structure and the cultural objects in it are singulary beautiful and historically significant.
Mungo Park House, Asaba
This is a national monument that happened to be the first headquarters of the Royal Niger Company and Nigeria’s first political headquarters in 1900.
Lander Brothers’ Anchorage, Asaba
It was built in memory of the Lander Brothers-Richard and John who anchored at about that spot of the River Niger during the expedition that they took over from Mungo Park. The erected anchorage is, however, not the original one but a replica; the original one is at Aboh. The Lander Brothers are credited with the discovery of the mouth of the River Niger. This led to the opening of the West African trade which eventually replaced slave trade. The anchorage has an information centre and a restaurant.
Expatriate Graveyard, Asaba
This is the resting place of missionaries and colonial workers that came to Asaba on a mission.
Bomadi Beach Party Resort
The Bomadi beach party resort usually takes place on the fascinating sandbanks of the Niger at Bomadi, headquarters of Bomadi LGA.
Escarvo Beach
This sandy beach is an exciting and popular site in Escarvos for relaxation and organizing of picnics.
Gordon River Resort, Abraka
The resort is located at Abraka on the road to Benin between Abraka and Obaruku and it is a tourist delight for those who want to get away into the kind of serenity that any african jungle can offer. Facilities here include swimming pool, restaurant, and bar and well furnished chalets, rooms and ssuites

 PHOTOS AS DELTA CELEBRATES HER 25YEARS..

Are you on the same page financially with your spouse? FIND OUT HERE!!!

Marriage is a partnership that touches every aspects of live inclu

inances which is one of the major causes of disagreement in marriage that couples only broached on instead of discussing and deliberating on it in details.

What are your money values? Are both of you at par? Do you think you should save while your spouse thinks you should spend? Are you the frugal type while your spouse is the splurging type? Is your spouse the liberal type while you are the one that feel that money is so sacrosanct to be parted with? You have to reconcile these and reach a compromise to avoid quarrels over money matters.

How about your earnings? Does your spouse know how much you earn or you think you should keep it to yourself to avoid certain demands or expectations? If you do this you may be breeding the seed of distrust or setting up yourself for demands and expectations that are beyond your financial capacity.
Do you dread taking the risk of investing while your spouse thinks it is a risk worth taking? The both of you should think about it and deliberate on it so that you don’t feel your spouse is the cause of the loss when investment goes bad or he or she feel you denied him or her the opportunity of making profit when others are benefiting from similar investment.
How do you plan on financing the home? Should it be on the basis of 50:50? Should the higher earner contribute more or the husband contributes more? This should decided by both of you to avoid money clashes.
How do you offer financial assistance to others? Do you feel you should do it behind your spouse because you think he or she will stop you? It is advisable that your spouses is in the picture and make it a common decision for proper planning. Discuss and do it together so that you don’t get stranded when you discover a pressing need that demands money in the family and also to avoid the awkward moment when your beneficiary thanks you spouse for the kind gesture when he or she is not in the know.

Cristiano Ronaldo wins UEFA Best player award 2015/2016

Cristiano Ronaldo wins UEFA Best player award 2015/2016

Real Madrid and Portugal striker Cristiano Ronaldo this evening defeated Antoinne Griezmann of Atletico Madrid/ France and Gareth Bale of Real Madrid/ Wales to win the prestigious UEFA best player award 2015/2016.
Cristiano Ronaldo helped Real Madrid win the Uefa champions League and was a major player as Portugal beat so many top European countries touted as favorites to win the EURO cup.
Posting a photo of him carrying the award on Instagram, he wrote ''Very happy and proud to win such a special award. Thank you to my team mates from Real Madrid and Portugal!

PORT HARCOURT PEOPLE GET SET ON 3RD SEPT. AS GOD'S GENERAL W.F KUMUYI STORMS IN!!!

"And it came to pass, when they were gone over, that Elijah said unto Elisha, Ask what I shall do for thee, before I be taken away from thee. And Elisha said, I pray thee, let a double portion of thy spirit be upon me." - 2 Kings 2:9

It is time to receive "Double Portion" of blessing as Deeper Christian Life Ministry Rivers State host the General Superintendent of the Church, Pastor W.F Kumuyi in Port Harcourt.

Date: Saturday 3rd September, 2016

Venue: General Yakubu Gowon Stadium Complex, Elekahia, Port Road, Iguruta-Ali

Time: 3:00pm

Forenquiry call +234 815 799 1157

This is another unique encounter that you must not miss.

The worst job to do in Nigeria today is to be a state governor- Nasir El Rufai

The worst job to do in Nigeria today is to be a state governor- Nasir El Rufai.

Kaduna state governor, Nasir El Rufai, says that the worst job to do in Nigeria today is to be a state governor. According to El Rufai, state governors are presently dealing with unpaid salaries and other issues which they did not create. He said this today while speaking at the ongoing 4th APC Progressive governors lecture series in Kaduna state
"The worst job to do in Nigeria today is to be a state governor. We(governors) are dealing with problems we didn't create but we are to solve"he said

See The 9 Nigerian Couples Who Met On Set

 Couples Who Met On Set

People get so caught up in work most times that they forget to make human interactions geared towards marriage and long term goals sometimes.

But imagine how cool it was if you could be at work and still meet the love of your life and live happily ever after. Seems like a fairy tale. But it actually isn’t.
Nigerian actors, just like their foreign contemporaries have met on set and everything good has blossomed from that relationship. Here are a few work relationships that have led to marriage:

1. Gbenro Ajibade and Osas Ighodaro
Gbenro and Osas were both cast members on popular Africa Magic TV show, Tinsel. They got engaged in 2014. Gbenro played the role of Soji and Osas was Adanna on the show. They got married almost a year later in the United States.

2. Gloria Anozie and Norbert Young
In an interview conducted by Vanguard, Gloria Anozie attributed her marriage to the fact that she was seeing her husband very often. The duo got married in 2002 and still waxing strong till date.

3. Chris Attoh and Damilola Adegbite
Tinsel apparently is such a love nest because Chris Attoh and Damilola Adegbite also met on the show. They played the roles of Kwame Mensah and Telema Duke respectively. They got married in 2015.

4. Isaac and Nneka Moses
Isaac and Nneka Moses met on the set of a movie in 1996 and have looked so damn good on each other ever since. They look alike all the time we see them on their culture and tourism show, Goge Africa.

5. Olu Jacobs and Joke Silva
No way we would have left the real relationship goals that Olu and Joke give us all the time. Olu met his beautiful wife at the casting of a Wole Soyinka novel – Jero’s Metamorphosis at the National Theatre and they’ve been living happily ever after since then.

6. Iyke Okechukwu and Florence Uwaleke

7. Chacha Eke and Austin Faani
Chacha Eke got married to her scriptwriter cum director husband, Austin Faani. They met on the set of ‘When Kings Decide’ in 2013.

8. Iretiola and Patrick Doyle
Ireti and Patrick Doyle met her husband while working at the production company as a part-time staff. Patrick Doyle who is a veteran broadcaster was Ireti’s boss at that time and one thing led to another and here they are. They have beautiful children and look so good together.

9. Tchidi Chikere and Nuella Njugbigbo
The couple met on set and got married amidst lots of controversies on March 29, 2014. Tchidi is a movie director and Nuella is an actress.

Which other Nigerian couples do you know met on set?

BULK SMS SERVICE- EFFECTIVE WAYS TO GROW YOUR CHURCH/MINISTRY TODAY!!!

GROW YOUR MINISTRY TODAY!

Slypsms is a

RELIABLE SMS Text Messaging Platform that can be used to GROW all sizes of

Churches/ Ministriescommunication wise .

DO YOU KNOW: THAT 95 % OF ALL TEXT MESSAGES ARE READ WITHIN 5 SECONDS ?

With bulk SMS text messaging , you can

communicate important, meaningful and urgent messages with large group of people at once .

SMS is a quick and very effective way to engage with workers and the congregation as well .

It is a low cost medium of communication that achieve far better results than a whole lot of other traditional means put together .

It is an Easy- to- use tool for churches /ministries to connect to the world . You can start sending your messages in just 3 steps :

Step 1 : Create account.......... Click here

Step 2 : Input mobile numbers & compose message

Step3 : Send now / schedule it

There are endless possibilities on how a church /ministry can use mobile text marketing to its advantage.

Few are enumerated down below:

FOR GOSPEL WORKS & MORE . BULK SMS HELPS A LOT IN FULFILLING THE GREAT COMMISSION OF MATTHEW 28 : 19 - 20 IN THIS MODERN ERA

Serious and successful evangelists of today in addition to crusades, revivals, outreaches, house fellowships, and personal visits rely heavily on bulk SMS to evangelise, do follow ups and motivate old and new fruits to make them abide. You too can! It's simple and it cost less to use!!

SOME OTHER WAYS YOUR CHURCH/MINISTRY WILL BENEFIT FROM BULK SMS

√ Invite  all  prospects  in  your community  to  your outreach  programs:  You can  now  utilize all  those  numbers  you’ve been  collecting  every year,  every  time  you  evangelize.  What’s  more,  we have millions  of Nigerian phone numbers  arranged  by  local  government  areas,  you  can  send invitation  to  those  in  your local  government  area.

√ Mobilize members  for evangelism:  You  can  use bulk  SMS  to  create excitement  and  motivate your members  to  turn  out  enmass  for evangelism.

√Automatically  follow-up  on prospects:  You  can  schedule  your follow-up messages  to  be  delivered  at  different  dates  and  times.  This  will nurture the relationship  with  your prospect  and  demonstrate that  you  are  really serious  about  their  spiritual  well-being.

√Send  weekly  reminders  to prospects:  You  can  use bulk  SMS to  remind prospects  of your meeting  days  and  time and  invite  them  to  see how  you  worship.

√Follow-up-on-First-Time visitors  who  are unbelievers:  Most  churches don’t  have a  follow-up  system  for  first-time visitors.  You  can  use bulk  SMS  to  automate this  and  solve  the problem.

√Thank  first-time visitors  who  are unbelievers  for  visiting  you:  This  will make them  feel  important.

√Invite prospects  to  your  subsequent  church programs:  After  getting  your prospects’  phone  numbers,  you  can  get  back  to  them  via bulk sms  when  you  have church  programs.  And  by  so  doing,  you’re gaining  a  share of their minds  and  they  are  likely  to  be converted  this  way  than when  you  don’t  stay  in  church  with  them  at all.

√Fund Raising Request: Bulk SMS is a quick way to request emergency funds to help needed group of people. Churches send an SMS fund request to member to raise fund for the campaign. It is easy to implement and it is also very cost-effective.

√Refer prospects  to  your Church’s  website:  Today,  most  people  spend about  60%  of  their  time online.  You  can  take advantage  of this  fact by  referring  prospects  via bulk  SMS to  your Church’s  website  to  learn  more of your church,  the gospel,  and  her ultimate salvation.

√Refer your prospects  to  your TV  and radio  programs:  TV  and  radio have enormous  power and  credibility.  By  referring  prospects  there, you’ll  be taking  advantage  of the  Law  of  Authority  and  Credibility.

√Nurture new  converts:  New  converts  in  the faith  need  to  be  nurtured  with the  sincere milk  of  the Word  instead  of just  throwing  them  into  the fray  to  eat  bones  with  adults  in  the faith.  You  can  use bulk  SMS  to  make this happen  in  addition  to  other methods.  You  can  even  automate it!

√Orientate new  converts:  There are policies  in  place  in  your church  that new  converts  need  to  know  among  other  things,  you  can  use  bulk SMS  to  do  this.

√Shape members’ thoughts:  For  instance,  you  could  shape their thoughts about  giving  much,  praying  always,  marrying  in  the Lord,  and  so on.

√Daily  devotional  bible verse:  Help  members  start  the  day  on  a  positive  note and  end  it  on  a  hopeful  note.

√Bible reading  of  the day:  Help  your  members  read  through  the entire  bible in  a  year.

√Happy  birthday  wishes/prayer:  Show  your members  you  care about important  days  in  their lives  by  sending  them  birthday  wishes/prayer using  bulk  SMS.  After all,  the  bible says  we should  rejoice with  those who rejoice.  You  can  even  schedule it  to  be  delivered  on  their  birthdays  so that  you  don’t  forget  it.

√Send out  special  prayer points  for members  to pray  about e.g.  for  a  sick member:  This  will  demonstrate  to  all  members  that  the Church  cares  &  the ceaseless  collective prayers  of the saints  work  wonders!

√Weekly activities  reminders:  Get  maximum  attendance by  sending  out motivational  reminders  about  your  bible class,  women  class,  song practice,  vigil,  fasting  and  prayer  meetings,  youth  class,  visiting,  committee meetings,  ministry  meetings,  and  so  on.

√Annual  lectureship or conference invitation: Are you  holding  an annual lecture or conference?  Save cost  and  succeed  in  getting  massive attendance  to  your annual  lectureships  and  seminars  like youth  lectureship, women  lectureship,  general  bible lectureship,  etc.

√Monthly  roster  dissemination: Send  officiating  members  what  they  are  to do  in  the month.  This  is  very  effective  because it  will  stay  in  their phones  and  they  will  get  it  whether they  are  in  worship  or not.

√Send time-sensitive information: At  times  you  want  to  send  out timesensitive information  like event  cancellation,  meeting  resolutions,  and so  on  to  your members,  you  don’t  have to  wait  for the  next  meeting  day.  You can  now  do  it  instantly  and  it  will  get  to  all  your members  wherever they are.

MOBILE MARKETING>CHEAP EASY WAY OF PROMOTING YOUR PRODUCTS & SERVICES TODAY

 USING MOBILE MARKETING TO PROMOTING YOUR SALES TODAY!!!

Technological advancements have kept making life easy for us all. Gone are the days when people had to use only the TV

and radio to announce new products and services. One thing that also made this medium to lose its position as the sole means of adverts was that because of its costs and low response rate. People were paying for adverts and still not seeing equal response. With the advent of bulk SMS technology, people no longer have to rely on the air and print media for passing messages across.

To use Bulk sms to promote your sales, what you have to do is to first and foremost identify a platform that will allow you send the messages. When you have done that, the next thing is to just purchase your SMS units and start sending messages.  You may be wondering how to get the numbers to send to, well here is a little tip.

To get numbers to send bulk sms to what you need to do is to go through your past receipts, emails or journals. Scour through the pages and copy the numbers that you have dealt with in the past. Once you’ve gathered them you can then send messages to them. This is one reason why you should make sure you have the contacts of previous customers. When you have something new to offer, you can always send them the idea. When these ideas get to them, they either act on it or direct persons who will act on it, either way you get to make sales.

Another way to get numbers for your bulk sms sales promotion campaign is to contact your SMS gateway provider (the platform I mentioned earlier) asking them to generate phone numbers of persons living in a particular area. This is a very effective method of promoting your goods and services. You will be able to interact personally with persons who will need your services in that locality.  So let’s say you have a goods just landed in Ikeja Lagos for example and need prospective buyers, all you need to do is for the numbers of the individuals living in that area to be generated for you and when that is done you can then send your messages to them. There is no easier way of getting prospective customers than this.

CHECK OUT OUR OVER 50 MILLION ACTIVE AND VERIFIED GSM NUMBERS DATABASE................Clickhere

With bulk sms, marketing has never been easier. So what are you waiting for?

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Okowa's Convoy Kills Elderly Man As Journalists Escape Death

Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, Delta State Governor

Pandemonium broke out on Friday last week when Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa's convoy killed an elderly man in Umutu community, Ukwuani Local Government Area of Delta State.

It was reliably learned that the governor and his convoy were returning from the meeting of the Niger Delta Coastal States in Warri, jointly convened by former Information Minister Edwin Clark and Mr. Okowa, at around 5-6 PM when the accident happened in Umutu community.

It was gathered that journalists who were in the convoy of the governor narrowly escaped death during the accident but sustained severe injuries. The driver of the vehicle, whose name was given as Isaac, was injured in the accident.

Narrating the incident to SaharaReporters, a government house staff who was in the convoy said that while returning from Warri after the event, the government house press crew bus in the governor's convoy that was carrying journalists and cameramen rammed into the elderly man who was driving a pickup vehicle.

According to our source, the elderly man was rushed to Abraka Hospital and then referred back to a hospital in Asaba where he died following shortage of blood and severe injuries.

"The bus that killed the man was driven by one of our drivers called Isaac. Several journalists and cameramen would have been dead by now but God saved them. So many of them were seriously injured and taken for treatment in government house clinic,” he said.

"Youths in the community almost unleashed terror on the convoy but the presence of the governor and other top government officials salvaged the situation which could have turned bloody. Governor Okowa had to personally come down from his car to appease the people. The driver as I talk to you now is still being detained in Asaba by the police," our source stated.

One of the journalists in the convoy who pleaded for anonymity told SaharaReporters that the governor's convoy was in high speed when the accident occurred, adding that the governor did not caution his drivers to drive at a moderate, safe speed.

Our source also disclosed that Mr. Okowa has concluded plans to send a government delegation to the family of the deceased to open a discussion on how to settle the matter for burial.

Ex-militants builds and present made-in-Nigeria bus to Buhari

An 18–seater, locally-made bus manufactured by ex-Niger Delta militants, who trained at Innoson Kiara Academy, a branch of Innoson Motor Manufacturing Company, Nnewi, Anambra state, has been presented to President Muhammadu Buhari.
The bus was presented at the graduation ceremony of 120 ex-Niger Delta militants at Innoson Motors Academy. The former militants got training in different specialties across the auto mobile industry, from auto mechanics, auto electrical, auto welding, auto painting and spraying, heavy duty truck maintenance, ICT, engineering drawing, entrepreneurial as well as interpersonal relationship to sustain their eventual businesses in that industry.
The locally made vehicle, was put for public view during the ceremony and the youths expressed gratitude to the federal government for the privilege given to them to obtain skills that have improved their lives.
The Special Adviser on Amnesty Programme, General Paul Boroh (rtd), who presented the youths with their certificates at the graduation ceremony said, the Presidential Amnesty Programme would partner Innoson Motors to make sure all the youths were totally established, so that they could play their own role towards building a greater Nigeria.
The management of the indigenous motor manufacturing company, had earlier, vowed to employ the graduating youths, based on the quality of expertise they have obtained.
The Presidential aide, Boro who inaugurated the training nine months ago, advised the trainees saying: “You have been on this training for nine months and we hope you are well –equipped now. The skills you have acquired will never be allowed to waste even a day.”
“It is not easy to employ people these days and that is why we are grateful to Chief Innocent Chukwuma for promising to employ all those who are interested in working in the company. “Having learnt the job, you are on your way towards becoming successful entrepreneurs. Modalities for the formation of the clusters where you will practice what you have learnt are already out.”
The special adviser on Niger Delta matters, likewise, said the trainees would be motivated to establish cooperative societies in order for them to get better reward for their efforts.

Know why he remains with Living Faith Church; Exclusive Interview with Bishop David Abioye, Senior

Bishop David Abioye

Pastor Of Living Faith Church, Goshen City
Bishop David Olatunji Abioye is in the top echelon of Living Faith Church Worldwide, one of the leading Pentecostal churches in Nigeria with over 5,000 branches worldwide. The Senior Pastor of Winners Chapel, Goshen City, a sprawling church and community development occupying a large expanse of land on the outskirts of Abuja, capital of Nigeria, he is a father-figure and mentor to hundreds of thousands of people all over the world . African Leadership Magazine pried into his rather reclusive persona in an attempt to deconstruct the enigma that he is. Excerpts:
Who is Bishop David Abioye, what was growing up like, which particular experiences in your past would you say shaped your future?
Thank you for the privilege of this interview. My name is David Abioye. I was privileged by God to come into this beautiful world fifty two years’ ago. I have had the awesome opportunity to serve in the family of Living Faith Church since inception. Even though a graduate of Engineering, I’ve found the greatest joy in my current calling and assignment. Before answering the call into full-time ministry, I had worked briefly at the then Open Cast Polytechnic, Auchi between 1985 and 1986 as a lecturer. I am happily married and blessed with three wonderful children.
Ministry is a call, not what you desire. I needed to say that because I did not desire ministry. I was simply a lover of God; I love God and was running after God. I never thought of ministry. I was dreaming of having a modern high tech workshop which was my greatest aspiration. I was doing everything I could to get that done while at the same time, loving the Lord as a believer. One thing led to the other, and in the process I was privileged to meet God’s servant, Bishop David Oyedepo.
When I met him, I saw in him the kind of passion in greater dimension of knowing Jesus and following after him. That fired me up. In the process of time, God gave him a vision for ministry and I found myself serving him with great love for Jesus. Even then, when the ministry commenced, I was still pursuing my passion for an automobile engineering workshop. Until finally, the Lord spoke to me, to abandon what I was doing to serve under his servant. That is how I came into the ministry.
God has different ways of dealing with people. My spiritual relationship with God has always come in most simple and modest way. I have had God speak to me, mostly through inner voice and deep conviction, which I believe is one of the strongest ways of God speaking to people, just like in Elijah’s experience on the mountain; the still small voice. When that voice comes it is usually with strong conviction. Every time I hear God in such a manner it is with assurance and rest. The Lord spoke to me that He has an assignment for me under Bishop David Oyedepo, which is what I refer to as my calling to the ministry. I have said this several times that my ministry is to see to the fulfillment of his ministry. It’s more of supportive ministry; while he deals with major issues, I look into smaller issues to prevent distraction. In all, little or big, I am doing what I’m assigned to under his calling.
How did you come in contact with the Founder of the Living Faith Church, Dr. David Oyedepo, and what roles has he played in your life, family and ministry?
My contact with God’s servant which dates back to early 1980 is a mystery. It was in a Christian Students’ Fellowship. Hearing him speak ignited fire into my spirit, I found in him a man who was pursuing God the way I desired to pursue after God. Thus, he immediately attracted me. Ever since that day, my spirit connected to his spirit. It’s beyond physical likeness of any kind. I believe this can be better illustrated with Proverbs 27:19, “As in water face answereth to face, so the heart of man to man.” Ever since then the relationship has kept growing deeper by the day. It’s exciting, and I give glory to God for the privilege.
He is several things to me. Firstly, he played a great brotherly role in my life. Since I became a staff under him, we have also had a formal relationship. I regard myself as a servant under him. From that formal relationship, it has grown to a father-son relationship. He has given me the privilege of coming close, having the treatment of a son. I work very hard not to abuse but to appreciate that privilege.
Since its commissioning in Ilorin, Kwara state Nigeria in1983, the Living Faith Church has grown to become one of the largest Christian denominations in the world. 

Kindly take us through the journey of the church’s growth till today? And What is the driving force behind all the successes we see?
Like I mentioned earlier, when God’s presence is with you, you are at rest. He said “My presence will go with you and I will give you rest” He leads you beside still water, He refreshes your soul, He keeps you away from anxiety because in the first place He does not lead you into what you want but what He has programmed for your life.
The phenomenon of church expansion of this ministry is an act of God. Going through church planting history, I’ve not read of how this number of churches was planted within the period of years that God gave to us. For example, up till the end of the year 2009, our church network in Nigeria was under 800, but within the following two years, God by His mighty hand has enabled us to increase the number of churches to over five thousand. We didn’t make it happen, God made it happen. He only gave us the privilege to quickly respond to His command. We are celebrating this because what God has spoken, His hand has equally performed; to Him alone be all the glory.
There are quite some salient factors that have contributed significantly to the success of this ministry. First of all, is the clarity and pursuit of vision! Living Faith Church was borne out of vision not of ambition. It is the pursuit of vision that has brought the church to where it is today. The vision, as delivered to God’s servant is very clear and is being pursued with all vigor.
Number two is divine guidance. While vision is identifying God’s purpose for your life, divine guidance shows the pathway to fulfilling that purpose. As God’s servant always says “we do nothing except as commanded by the Lord.” Today, people see this ministry as being in the forefront, the reason is because no project is ever embarked upon except as commanded by the Lord.
Another important factor is divine presence. This ministry believes so much that without God’s presence, embarking on any pursuit is a waste of effort. Divine presence has been our backbone it uproots mountains and gives birth to all-round breakthrough.
Finally, there is the prompt obedience to divine signal as exhibited by Gods servant. He is a man of prompt action. Once he hears God giving directive on any subject, he does not waste time to thoroughly follow it through, and when prompt action meets with divine guidance, great accomplishment is bound to erupt.
With the proliferation of churches today in Nigeria, and with the possibility that there might have been suggestions from people to you that with such awesome work you do and the anointing you carry, why don’t you start something? How have you handled these kinds of situation?
You see when you have truly heard from God, the voices of others become insignificant to you. You can’t hear from God and be confused. You can’t hear from God and doubt. You can’t hear from God and be wondering whether you heard from Him or not. It’s as clear as that. It’s only someone who wants to walk in disobedience that will pretend to hear something else as it comes to play.
However, in your bid to obey God you cannot rule out the fact that people will come to say different things to you, some out of sincere heart, others out of personal observations, while many others are sent by the devil to get you off course. But, whatever way it comes to you, what is most important is to have this inner witness. I have derived so much strength from my innermost being.
You don’t have to start ministry to have a ministry. I quite understand that there are callings and as a matter of fact, callings will multiply because according to scriptures, there will be multiplication of visions. I like to discourage people from having a self made call.. If you are called, let it be a call and if you are not called, you can fulfill a calling within an existing ministry. I have come to realize that it does not reduce you, it’s all a matter of impact. Like I tell people, I am not number one in our ministry but by the grace of God, I carry out my assignment with undeniable impact. Ministry is about function, not about number. Ministry is not about ‘foundership’ but about touching lives. You don’t have to be at the top to lead; you can lead from the middle and you can even lead from under.
All of a sudden, a sprawling city, with state of the art infrastructure, has emerged on the Abuja-Keffi expressway called Goshen City. Can you share with us the birthing of this city, and what should visitors to Goshen City expect to see?
Well, it is important for me to emphasize here that Goshen City is not a human accomplishment but a divine programme being achieved by the hand of God because except the Lord builds a house they labour in vain that builds it. We didn’t build Goshen City, it is God that built it and this is evident by the fact that there was no stress or struggle in building of the place to where it is today. By the grace of God, we came in here barely three years ago inclusive of the construction period, and all provision is being provided for by the hand of God.. Therefore, it is the Lord’s City and He’s the One who accomplished all of this within this period.
How would you assess the impact of the Living Faith Church in the Nigeria’s educational landscape?
The participation of the commission in Nigeria’s educational landscape is also not an ambition. It is not an effort to fill a gap or vacuum but as divinely ordered by God, and it shows with the excellent touch and results that are undeniable in all facets and levels of our educational endeavours the primary, secondary and the university education. The Covenant University Ota for example has become a reference point not only to several other universities both within and outside the country, but it’s used as yardstick for all prospective universities by the regulatory body of the university administration in this country. This signifies the finger of God, which has enabled us to become light to our world according to Matt. 5:13,14.
The uniqueness of Landmark University in Kwara state and the platform on which it was established is agric-revolution based. I believe that any nation that neglects farming will end in famine. If you check it very well even in the beginning of creation, the first duty that God gave to man was agriculture; that indicates the importance that God placed on agriculture. We believe that the agrarian revolution programme of the Landmark University is going to help our nation significantly. Our plan is not just to enlighten people or bring a revival to agriculture, but also to participate in the forefront by producing food in all ramifications up to processing and exporting of the produce.
In all these, we give glory to God for the privilege He has shown to us.
What has been or is your greatest asset as a believer and a minister?
The Holy Spirit, my Guide, my Custodian, the One whom Jesus Christ handed us over to is my greatest asset. If you like, call it Divine Presence. I have always told people that if they care to pray for me, it’s the prayer of Divine Presence. If God be for you, no man can be against you. If God is for you, you have rest and your supplies are guaranteed. Everything that is needed is in Divine Presence. I have said humorously that ‘I will rather lose ten thousand members of the church than to miss His presence.’ Saul traded Divine Presence for the elders of the city, and eventually the elders left him. David rather preferred to miss the drums of the people than to miss God. That’s why in Psalm 51 verse 11, he cried to God, “cast me not away from thy presence and take not thy Holy Spirit from me.” You can take every other thing away but don’t take Your Spirit away from me.
We need to value the presence of the Holy Spirit. That is the promise of the Father that Jesus gave to us. That is my most valued asset.
My next asset has to do with my relationship with people which I describe as integrity; maintaining sound Christian character. When we were growing up in the faith, my family church background was in the Evangelical setting that is the Baptist to be precise. The basic scriptural principles we learnt were honesty, transparency, truthfulness.. I have said that I will rather be a pastor of thirty people in my village and maintain good character than being pastor of thirty thousand in a city, without character. I value character.. “’A good name’, the Bible says, ‘is better than riches.” If you lose money, you may get it back but if you lose your name it’s gone forever. The greatest inheritance you can leave for your children is a name. You may not leave any material thing for your children but leave a name for them. Without a good name you are doomed; when you are dead, you are truly dead. With a good name, when you die you still live on. Good character and integrity will be considered as my next asset aside of divine presence. I don’t care about what I have materially but I want to maintain a good name. A good name not in the sense of fame, but a name to be remembered for good. My candid advice is, live an exemplary life. People may applaud you for good speech, they may scream at your oratory skill but they will only follow you for your good character. They may admire you for your appearance but they will copy you only for your character.
What would you consider to be the social dimensions of the establishment of Goshen city to the host community? In what ways have the people living around the area been impacted?
Well, the church of Jesus is the light bearer to the world because, according to the scriptures, Jesus Christ is the true Light which lightens the whole world. Translating that to our existence in Goshen, in this short time, our impact in this community cannot be quantified both in value and human development.
The coming of the Church has brought tremendous transformation and financial empowerment to the lives and destinies of the people of this area. Right from the early days of the construction till date, because of the mega nature of this work, several hundreds of people have been provided with job opportunities especially in the construction sites. This is apart from the large number of people employed within other arms of our organization such as in the Secondary and Primary Schools and you know once people are employed, their homes will fare better and crime rate in the society will reduce as well.
Also, the coming of the Church to this community has tremendously impacted on the social status of this area. This once ‘hidden’ local settlement has suddenly acquired a global name and identity. As a result, there has been mass movement of settlers to this community along with a springing forth of modern houses, shops, market stalls, estates etc on daily basis. The orientation and perspective of the people have been greatly enhanced. This is a profound effect of the gospel of Jesus Christ on the people, to God be the glory.
Finally, on infrastructure, God has helped the church to provide clean drinking water to the people through digging of borehole; we have provided a transformer aiding electricity distribution, roads and drainages construction, among others. To enhance safety, the Church has also provided a modern Police Post for the community.
In all, God has helped Goshen to impact positively and tremendously on this community and the people living around. We give Him praise!
May we know Bishop Abioye, the family man, and how he copes with family obligations in spite of an obviously tight schedule? And how would you describe your wife?
As a person, I am passionate when it comes to the issue of family. Although, I have a very busy work schedule, I still find time to relate well with my family both immediate and relations, knowing very well that happy family is the bedrock of any thriving pursuit. I make sure I extend a hand of love to everyone, and assist in whatever way I can either on regular term or otherwise.
My wife is a blessing to me. Without mincing words, we have grown to have a kindred spirit. What I have admired about her is her love for God. What I recommend for young intending couple is to find a platform for their relationship. In my view, it should not even begin with love for each other but love for God. That is number one security for marriage. If you want to marry, look for someone who loves God. Look for someone who loves God the way you love God. You will always have a common meeting point even when you have challenges and struggles.
I realize that one of the problems people have in ministry has to do with their family relationships. If you have other pressures other than spiritual pressures from your spouse, it’s easy to manage. My wife has been a great lover of God and I respect her for that. Because she is a lover of God, she is a lover of me and my assignment. She is a submissive person. We have enjoyed the years together. As you grow in a good marriage relationship, you find out that your wife is more than your wife. I have found sisterhood in her; I have found motherhood in her. When I don’t see her as my wife I see her as my sister or mother. We have had good companionship.
What are your hobbies, how do you relax, and what does your typical day look like?
My primary hobby is loving and serving people. I get excited when I have opportunity to serve people. It brightens my soul and quickens my body. I feel relaxed whenever I have the privilege to love and serve people. More importantly, I enjoy relaxing with my family because that’s the hub of peace and success in life.
I believe God made man to work, so my day usually is filled with work even till night with a brief break at every evening Often time, I only have just few hours of sleep at night. I do not compromise my study time which is usually at night time, as well as qualitative time with my wife and children when they are at home.

EXCERPTS FROM THE DIVINE ENCOUNTER NIGHT WITH BISHOP DAVID OYEDEPO AT THE ACCRA SPORTS STADIUM GHANA, 19 AUG 2016.

Most times, we celebrate what we have but we are not conscious of what we lack.
Mysteries are divine secrets embedded in scriptures.
When you engage the mysteries of scriptures, you gain mastery over all affairs of life.
Divine secrets are not religious issues but real scriptural instructions.

There is no comparing of Divine secret to skill, ability, or talent
When the scripture is fulfilled, God's integrity is committed to perform.
You can't claim to love God without loving people
If the salt is not enough for the soup, the soup will lack taste.
Serving God is not a gift but rather a choice.
Serving God is the the choice of the wise.
What you see in the future or today, is the cummulative result of yesterday.
When you serve God, you become a bonafide, certified and chartered believer.

Every soul winner is on God's payroll
Every soul winner is on an appointment
Those who mind the mockery never see the glory.
Allow the mockers to mock you so that the Maker can make you.
There is no height favour cannot take you.
Fearful and unimaginable favour comes your way when you engage in kingdom promotion.

 More Photos.

Dr Bishop David Oyedepo arriving the Accra Stadium.

Why Excellence Is a Must for Every Christian. Find out here!!!

A man of God defined excellence as the possession of good quality in an unusual degree. As God’s ambassadors, we must represent him properly. Excellence means doing things right in the best way. But before we consider how to do things right, let’s ensure we are doing the right thing. Excellence in doing the wrong thing still depicts failure. How do we manifest excellence as people of God?
1.Understand Your Assignment
You cannot just be efficient. Be effective also. Efficiency is doing things right. Effectiveness is doing the right things. Defining your assignment is the starting point for you to achieve excellence. State clearly your vision in life or the vision of your organization. This defines the limit of the areas in which to achieve excellence as a person or organization.
2. Trash old the mindset
A lot of people say that you have to choose between quality and quantity. This is not true because the more quality you are, the more quantity you magnetize. The more you do things better, the more patronage you get.
There is another myth that says you must have huge sum of money before you can achieve excellence. The truth is, you need excellence to attract a large sum of money. If you will improve on the quality of what you are doing, your customers will increase; this translates into more money for you. Do not ask, “What will this cost me?” Rather ask, “What will it cost me if we do not do it?”
Why You Must Be Excellent
Things are changing around us every day. A person or organization that is outdated cannot be relevant in a contemporary world. If, for example, you still make use of an old manual typewriter when you are supposed to be doing your work with great speed on a computer, it will mire a lot of things. We must endeavor to up-date ourselves with new technologies.
Excellence motivates, especially in an underdeveloped environment. Inspire the people around you by your actions. Our organizations should be places of inspiration. What is that unique thing you have or your organization has that can inspire other people?
Striving for excellence shows people that we are serious-minded about our assignment and encourages them to want to be part of it. No matter how small a thing looks, if you have invested quality thoughts in it, people tend to appreciate and identify with it. Great works are a result of deep thoughts.
Like begets like. Excellence attracts good quality; human, financial and material resources. For example if you work in a bank and that bank is known for excellent customer service, i.e. within five minutes a customer has been attended to; people tend to flock to such banks. The same goes for supermarkets, salons, and various companies.
Life is progressive and not stagnant. If we remain stagnant, we risk failure. There is no pride in failure. We must appreciate excellence wherever it is found. Excellence attracts. Strive for it. This is one of the keys to success in life.
If you run an organization, then make it an excellence-oriented organization. Look for ways to continually improve quality in services offered, events and your facilities.
Crucial Areas for Improvement
Communication – i.e. your advert materials must portray excellence.
Customer service – when a service is good, one person tells a maximum of 5 people. But when the services are bad, one person tells 20 people. Now only 4% come back to complain but the remaining 96% speak with their feet.
Creativity – your staff must keep churning in ideas about how to do things in a better way.
Staff training – Expose your staff to world-class improvement programs for better performance. It is vital to keep learning.
Facilities – The organization’s facilities reveal what we value and reflect our self-image. Therefore, the excellence-oriented organization must thrive for excellence in the following areas:
1. the painting of the facilities and landscaping of the environment.
2. keep the plants and grasses well-trimmed and all directional signs freshly painted.
3. the environment should be well lit, have comfortable seating arrangements and the temperature should be well managed with a cooling system.
4. the rest rooms should be clean. Visitors may forget what you say but not the memory of a foul-smelling testroom.
5. the appearance of your staff says a lot about your organization’s priority for excellence.
6. the excellence-oriented organization invests money in what people can see. Human beings are generally motivated and affected by what they see.
Excellence is more of a process than a product; a journey, not a destination. We should not make excellence a one- time goal. The key is never to stop learning. When you stop learning, you stop growing. Upgrade from time to time.

Seven Scriptures For Finding Hope When Things Seem Hopeless

There are two prevalent reasons people fail: either they give up or they do not make efforts at all. A lack of hope is the convergent reason for failure whether people give up or do not make efforts at all.

Hope is an important element in our walk with Christ. Hope is very different from faith. Hebrews 11:1b says: “Faith is the substance of things hoped for” (KJV) . While faith is our response or action to circumstances and trials, hope is what causes us to respond and act. Our hope sets a firm foundation for our faith. One question you must ask yourself is, “Where does my hope lie?”
The thing about hope is that it has to be rested on something that is sure. When we put our hope on something unsure, we only set ourselves on a foundation like sand, which is easily washed off when storms come. We know that there is no hope greater than the hope we have in Jesus Christ. When we put our hope in Him for all things, we set ourselves up for the vision and charge ourselves up to pursue that vision.
Here are Seven Scriptures on finding hope in God even in the most hopeless times:
1. John 14:27
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
2. Psalm 91:1-2
“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'”
3. Psalm 40:1-3
“I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in him.”
4. 1 Peter 1:3
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade.”
5. Lamentations 3:21-24
Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, ‘The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.'”
6. 2 Corinthians 1-3-7
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ. If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort.”
7. Psalm 34:17-18
“The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”