The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), Bishop Stephen Adegbite, has emphasized the importance of embracing spirituality over material wealth.
Speaking in Bethlehem during the Jerusalem Pilgrim award ceremony for the second batch of Christian pilgrims, Bishop Adegbite noted that spirituality cannot be quantified with money. He urged pilgrims to adopt a more spiritual lifestyle, prioritizing faith, community, and personal values.
“In a world that often prioritizes material wealth, it is essential to remember that true joy and fulfillment come from meaningful relationships and spiritual development,” Bishop Adegbite said.
The NCPC boss expressed confidence and hope for Nigeria’s future, praising President Bola Tinubu for his support to Christian pilgrims and the church.
He also prayed for wisdom for government leaders, acknowledging the challenges of leadership.
“God will keep President Bola Tinubu as leadership, It is not easy, but when God appoints you, he will keep you, and we will reap the good of Nigeria,” Bishop Adegbite said.
In her remarks, the Charge d’Affaires of the Nigerian Embassy in Israel, Mrs. Nonyelum Afoekelu, lauded the efforts of Bishop Adegbite in ensuring a smooth and hitch-free pilgrimage exercise.
“The Executive Secretary is truly a dedicated Chief Executive. He has shown so much passion to the service of God and the nation, Nigeria. He was here last October to ensure everything was set on the ground for the welfare and safety of all Nigerian Christian pilgrims who will come here for pilgrimage.”
She added, “I want to also appreciate all pilgrims for their good behavior, so far we have recorded zero abscondment. I enjoin you all to always pray for our dear nation Nigeria.”
In his opening remarks, the Chief Executive Officer of Ophir Tours, Mr. Israel Goldstein, commended Bishop Adegbite for his transparent leadership and praised the second batch of Christian pilgrims for their good behavior and worthy representation of Nigeria.
Mr. Goldstein emphasized the positive diplomatic relationship between Nigeria and Israel/Jordan, praying for more collaboration in the future.
Plateau: IIPCEL Holds 3rd Annual Global Conference in Jos,
*Focuses on Tackling Hyperinflation in Nigeria.
Ogunewa Audu Jos.
The International Institute of Professional Corporate Entrepreneurship and Leadership (IIPCEL) has hosted its 3rd Annual Global Conference and Awards at the Plateau Club in Jos the Capital of Plateau state.
Themed “Managing the Effects of Hyperinflation in the Nigerian Economy and Entrepreneurship Action Plan,” the event brought together policymakers, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders to address critical economic challenges facing Nigeria.
A key highlight of the event was the IIPCEL-AGCAD Market Place 2025, which showcased innovative local products and entrepreneurial solutions.
Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, Nigeria’s Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, was represented by David Daser, President/CEO of the Digital Bridge Institute. In his remarks, Daser emphasized the ministry’s focus on promoting peace and development as sustainable solutions to humanitarian crises.
He outlined the ministry’s 2025 Humanitarian Response Plan, which aims to expand national coverage beyond the north eastern region and foster inclusive economic growth.
Key initiatives include poverty reduction, capacity building, and support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Notably, Daser announced interest-free loans for cooperatives, grants for SMEs, and a redesigned N-Power program aimed at equipping youths with skills and linking them to the market.
“The ministry is committed to breaking the poverty trap, supporting young entrepreneurs, and fostering inclusive economic growth,” Daser stated, urging entrepreneurs to leverage government programs to stabilize and scale their businesses.
Godwin Eseroghene Urhie, Director-General and CEO of IIPCEL, called for robust government policies to address hyperinflation and insecurity. He advocated for decentralizing security management and leveraging technology to combat crime, emphasizing that innovation and entrepreneurship are crucial to overcoming Nigeria’s economic challenges.
“Business is the only way to create wealth. We need more entrepreneurs and better policies to reverse low business participation and drive sustainable economic development,” Urhie said.
Prof. Emmanuel Oki, Director of the Centre for Entrepreneurship Studies,at University of Jos highlighted the importance of developing human capital to compete globally.
He stressed the need for financial support for key sectors and urged the government to train graduates to become job creators rather than job seekers.
“Nigeria must provide financial support for selected sectors to drive innovation and job creation. Developing critical thinking and entrepreneurial skills is vital for our youth,” Oki noted.
Bitrus Pam Badung, 1st President of IIPCEL’s Council and Country Business Manager at PARTEC Health Limited, underscored the importance of innovative approaches to business amid inflation. He lauded the conference as a platform for knowledge sharing, project management, and professional business guidance across sectors.
“The institute provides education and guidance to entrepreneurs, helping them adapt to challenges like inflation with innovative solutions,” Badung explained.
The event concluded with the presentation of awards in three categories:
Young Corporate Entrepreneur and Leader Award: Bashir Shaidu Woman Corporate Entrepreneur and Leader Award: Walcat Wambuda Grand Corporate Entrepreneur and Leader Award: Mr. David Daser
The IIPCEL-AGCAD Market Place 2025 featured exhibitions of locally made products, showcasing the creativity and resilience of Nigerian entrepreneurs.
The conference provided a vital platform for addressing hyperinflation, fostering innovation, and building sustainable economic strategies to drive Nigeria forward.
The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), Bishop Stephen Adegbite, has declared that the pilgrimage outlook in Nigeria has changed, emphasizing that pilgrimage is a spiritual journey.
Bishop Adegbite made this statement during the airlift of intending pilgrims from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport .
The NCPC boss reaffirmed that Jerusalem remains the ultimate pilgrimage destination of the Commission.
He also disclosed that the Lagos pilgrims, who were the first batch of pilgrims to embark on this year’s main pilgrimage exercise, had “brought good tidings to Nigeria.”
Bishop Adegbite expressed his appreciation for President Bola Tinubu’s support for pilgrimage, stating that the President believes in pilgrimage and will continue to advance its cause in Nigeria.
He assured the pilgrims of a wonderful 10-day experience in the holy land, stating that the journey will be “spiritually rejuvenated.”
The Executive Secretary declared his confidence in Nigeria’s potential, stating, “I believe Mr. President is on the right path to take us out of the woods.”
He admonished the intending pilgrims to be good ambassadors of Nigeria, urging them to “be proud of your citizenship.”
Bishop Adegbite reiterated that the theme of this year’s main pilgrimage exercise, “Pilgrimage of Renewed Hope for Total Restoration,” was carefully chosen to align with the desired restoration of the country.
The FCT pilgrims, consisting of approximately 337 individuals, were the second batch to be airlifted after Lagos.
The first batch of Lagos State Christian pilgrims returned safely to Lagos on January 1, 2025, after a successful pilgrimage exercise to Israel and Jordan.
At the welcome ceremony, the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission Bishop Adegbite expressed his joy at the exercise’s success, noting that the journey began and ended in joy.
He hoped other states would follow suit.
Special Adviser on Christian Religious Matters, Very Revd Adebukola Adeleke, and Bishop Akinpelu Johnson, Chairman of the Lagos State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, also expressed gratitude to God for journey mercies.
The Board Secretary, Mrs. Yetunde Gbafe, thanked God for the hitch-free exercise and acknowledged improvements at the Jordan-Israel border, appreciating the NCPC, ground handlers, and Nigerian Embassy’s intervention.
She announced that the second batch of Lagos pilgrims will depart soon.
The newly inducted Jerusalem Pilgrims (JPs) expressed satisfaction with the spiritually rejuvenating exercise and top-notch welfare provided by the Lagos State Government..
They encouraged intending pilgrims to visit the holy lands, now that is peaceful.
Ogubewa Audu Jos. .. The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), Bishop Stephen Adegbite, has declared that 2025 will be a year of restoration for Nigeria.
In his New Year message, Bishop Adegbite expressed optimism that Nigeria will regain its lost glory and take its rightful place among nations. He emphasized that Nigeria is destined for greatness and that no “forces of darkness” can hinder its progress.
According to Bishop Adegbite, “Nigeria must make tangible progress in 2025, which will be palpable even to the blind.” He urged Nigerians to cultivate a positive mentality about the country and join hands with the government at all levels to move the country forward.
The NCPC boss noted that the Lord has blessed Nigeria with abundant natural and human resources, and therefore, the country has no reason not to succeed. He called on Nigerians to continue to trust and support the administration of President Bola Tinubu, emphasizing that the policy plank of the government, which is anchored on renewed hope for the people, will be effectively implemented.
Bishop Adegbite also disclosed that the current Nigerian Christian pilgrims in the holy land are praying fervently for the success of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, the well-being of the President, and leaders of the country, so that they will lead by example.
He reiterated that the theme of the 2024 Main pilgrimage exercise, “Pilgrimage of Renewed Hope for Total Restoration,” was carefully chosen because the Commission is convinced that the time for the Lord to restore Nigeria is now.
Bishop Adegbite wished all Nigerians a prosperous New Year, filled with hope, peace, and restoration.
The Plateau State capital Jos has come alive as the Plateau Cultural Carnival has commenced with beautiful display of activities, exhibitions, fashion parade, dance and music, as well as other entertainment.
The event which commenced from Secretariat Junction where all the participants and fun seekers assembled in the morning, had series of entertainment activities as well as music before doing a road show and procession from the state Secretariat Junction to the venue of the event, which is the Crest Hotel.
Also, many Nollywood stars from across the country and other dignitaries, cultural custodians, traditional rulers and government officials graced the occasion.
Most of the speakers at the occasion pointed out that the cultural carnival symbolizes peace, tourism potential, investment hub of the state, saying this was contrary to the held belief that the state is crisis-ridden and unsafe.
Organizers of the event has equally expressed their readiness to successfully use the carnival to celebrate and advance ‘unity in diversity’ of the state as well as fostering harmony and mutual appreciation among its diverse ethnic groups.
The vision of the carnival is to position the state as a global platform for cultural preservation, growth and appreciation, as well as inspiring pride, unity, and economic empowerment.
In his remarks, one of the organizers of the carnival, Stephen Onucheojo Okoh, popularly known as Director Bishop, said the whole essence of the carnival is to redeem the Plateau cultural heritage because so many cultures across the nation, Africa and the world at large have gone into extinction.
Okoh who is also a filmmaker, director and writer explained that the carnival will serve as a reminder of the people’s culture and cultural life in the state’s heterogeneous society and from across the 17 local government areas.
He said so many people came from across the country and even abroad to witness the occasion because of its importance, adding that Plateau has always been a tourism destination and that the carnival is poised to rejuvenate the tourism sector of the state.
One of the Nollywood stars who graced the event, Kalu Ikeagwu, said this was his first time in the state, and that he has always been very curious to find out more about state because he has heard a lot about it, its divers cultures, people, events and lifestyles.
The Nollywood star said such carnival is imperative to the development of not only the cultures in the state, but also the entertainment, tourism and economic sectors of the state.
He said another benefit of carnival is that it enhances cultural exportation which makes people to be aware of the state’s cultures, exchange of ideas and by so doing stimulating investment to the state.
According to him, that is why Nollywood has interest in cultures across the country, and that is why the industry is doing strategic partnerships in that respect.
Ikeagwu also said Plateau has a lot of potentials in terms of tourism with the landscape, sceneries, waterfalls among others, agriculture and that he also enjoyed the cold weather in Jos which is the best in the country.
The convener of the carnival, Debrah Jalmet oh her part , said this year’s event marks the second anniversary of the carnival which’s aim is to project the state in a more positive light open up the state for positive development and investors, through advancing the culture and people of the state.
Jalmet noted that the ethbo-religious crisis and its attendant violence which rocked the state in the past 20 years has significantly subsided in the past few years, and that now there has been relative peace across many communities as well as Jos the state capital.
According to her, Plateau State is already open to peace, tranquility and unity because the people are already tired of crisis, and so they are using the carnival to strategically boost the well-being and progress of the Ssate as well as advance investment drive and economic empowerment.
She called on those outside Plateau and across the world to come to the state and take advantage of its potentials, hospitality and people and initiate their business ideas, buying and selling, render services and get good return on investment.
The Plateau State Director of Arts and Culture, Telzing Nden, while speaking, said it is due to the developmental visibility of the carnival that makes the state government to partner with the organizers.
The Director of arts and culture, said the concept of the whole thing is to promote peace and tourism, both Internationally and locally, and to show to the world that the government is solidly behind the carnival and will keep supporting and partnering with organizers and the convener in terms of Debrah Jalmet.
According to him, more of such impactful carnivals are needed in order to promote the tourism and related sectors of the state as government alone cannot drive the viable sectors in the state.
The Plateau State capital Jos has come alive as the Plateau Cultural Carnival has commenced with beautiful display of activities, exhibitions, fashion parade, dance and music, as well as other entertainment.
The event which commenced from Secretariat Junction where all the participants and fun seekers assembled in the morning, had series of entertainment activities as well as music before doing a road show and procession from the state Secretariat Junction to the venue of the event, which is the Crest Hotel.
Also, many Nollywood stars from across the country and other dignitaries, cultural custodians, traditional rulers and government officials graced the occasion.
Most of the speakers at the occasion pointed out that the cultural carnival symbolizes peace, tourism potential, investment hub of the state, saying this was contrary to the held belief that the state is crisis-ridden and unsafe.
Organizers of the event has equally expressed their readiness to successfully use the carnival to celebrate and advance ‘unity in diversity’ of the state as well as fostering harmony and mutual appreciation among its diverse ethnic groups.
The vision of the carnival is to position the state as a global platform for cultural preservation, growth and appreciation, as well as inspiring pride, unity, and economic empowerment.
In his remarks, one of the organizers of the carnival, Stephen Onucheojo Okoh, popularly known as Director Bishop, said the whole essence of the carnival is to redeem the Plateau cultural heritage because so many cultures across the nation, Africa and the world at large have gone into extinction.
Okoh who is also a filmmaker, director and writer explained that the carnival will serve as a reminder of the people’s culture and cultural life in the state’s heterogeneous society and from across the 17 local government areas.
He said so many people came from across the country and even abroad to witness the occasion because of its importance, adding that Plateau has always been a tourism destination and that the carnival is poised to rejuvenate the tourism sector of the state.
One of the Nollywood stars who graced the event, Kalu Ikeagwu, said this was his first time in the state, and that he has always been very curious to find out more about state because he has heard a lot about it, its divers cultures, people, events and lifestyles.
The Nollywood star said such carnival is imperative to the development of not only the cultures in the state, but also the entertainment, tourism and economic sectors of the state.
He said another benefit of carnival is that it enhances cultural exportation which makes people to be aware of the state’s cultures, exchange of ideas and by so doing stimulating investment to the state.
According to him, that is why Nollywood has interest in cultures across the country, and that is why the industry is doing strategic partnerships in that respect.
Ikeagwu also said Plateau has a lot of potentials in terms of tourism with the landscape, sceneries, waterfalls among others, agriculture and that he also enjoyed the cold weather in Jos which is the best in the country.
The convener of the carnival, Debrah Jalmet oh her part , said this year’s event marks the second anniversary of the carnival which’s aim is to project the state in a more positive light open up the state for positive development and investors, through advancing the culture and people of the state.
Jalmet noted that the ethbo-religious crisis and its attendant violence which rocked the state in the past 20 years has significantly subsided in the past few years, and that now there has been relative peace across many communities as well as Jos the state capital.
According to her, Plateau State is already open to peace, tranquility and unity because the people are already tired of crisis, and so they are using the carnival to strategically boost the well-being and progress of the Ssate as well as advance investment drive and economic empowerment.
She called on those outside Plateau and across the world to come to the state and take advantage of its potentials, hospitality and people and initiate their business ideas, buying and selling, render services and get good return on investment.
The Plateau State Director of Arts and Culture, Telzing Nden, while speaking, said it is due to the developmental visibility of the carnival that makes the state government to partner with the organizers.
The Director of arts and culture, said the concept of the whole thing is to promote peace and tourism, both Internationally and locally, and to show to the world that the government is solidly behind the carnival and will keep supporting and partnering with organizers and the convener in terms of Debrah Jalmet.
According to him, more of such impactful carnivals are needed in order to promote the tourism and related sectors of the state as government alone cannot drive the viable sectors in the state.
The first bach of 2024 Of Christian Pilgrimage to holy land mainly pilgrims from Lagos state converged on Tabar Hotel in Nazareth for a combined Sunday service which featured a Bible lesson read by Hon. Mrs. Omowunmi Ogunlola, Federal Commissioner representing South West in the Board of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC).
The lesson of the day was taken from Joel 2:18-27which dwelled on God’s restoration of Israel’s glory.
Bishop Akinpelu Johnson, Chairman of the Lagos State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, delivered a sermon titled “Restoration of Nigerian Hope.” .. He emphasized the need for collective prayer and cooperation with God to restore Nigeria’s glory.
The pilgrims offered prayers for Nigeria, its leaders, and citizens, seeking God’s guidance, . wisdom, and restoration.
The Service prayers focused on the restoration of Nigeria’s glory, guidance and wisdom for leaders, circumcision of leaders’ hearts for sacrifice and service, and grace for leaders to finish strongly.
Bishop Johnson on his part expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for facilitating this year’s pilgrimage exercise, despite the challenges posed by the Hamas militant group’s attack on Israel last October.
The first Batch of Christian pilgrims have been in the holy land for seven days, having departed Nigeria on 22nd December, 2024. . The pilgrimage exercise continues with prayers and reflections on the theme “Pilgrimage of Renewed Hope for Total Restoration.”
Plateau: Mutfwang Director Of Press Bere Organises Peace and Unity Tournament in Wvang Distrct of Jos South LGA.
Ogunewab Audu Jos.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s Director of Press and Public affairs Dr Gyang Bere has organized football tournament in his rural community of Vwang in Jos South LGA of Plateau state .
The Vwang District Peace and Unity Football Tournament is organised to foster unity, peace, with a special focus on empowering youths.
This was disclosed by the organiser, who is also the Director of Press and Public Affairs to Governor Caleb Mutfwang, Dr Gyang Bere .
He said, “The Vwang District Peace and Unity Football Tournament, an initiative we championed and designed to foster unity among the people of Vwang District, with a special focus on empowering youths.
According to him, “This initiative seeks to harness the talents and skills of young individuals in order to guide them toward personal growth and contributing to the overall development of the community.
“The tournament was conceived from the pressing need to identify and nurture the footballing talents within the community”, he explained.
“Many youths, despite their exceptional abilities, have lacked opportunities and mentorship to showcase their skills beyond the district.
“This event therefore aims to bridge that gap by creating a platform where their potential can be recognized and developed”, he maintained.
“The primary objective of the tournament is to discover talented footballers from the district and prepare them for opportunities with larger teams.
“Beyond football, the tournament is envisioned as a tool for promoting peace, unity, and harmony within the community. It aims to foster a cooperative spirit among the youths and equip them with a sense of purpose for a brighter future.
Additionally, Bere stated that, “This event will serve as a platform to educate participants about the dangers of drug abuse and inspire them to pursue productive and meaningful ventures in society.
Nasarawa: A Mining Company faults Arrest of Its manager by Nassara Govt.Ovet Mining Site.
Ogwunewa Audu Jos.
A Mining Company, Trimmadix Geomin Consult Nigeria has expressed disappointment over disruption of its operations and harassment of its staff at its mining site at Amba Kure in the Kokona local government area of Nasarawa State by agents of the state government.
It would be recalled that the State Government through it’s Commissioner of Environment and Solid Minerals recently stormed the mining site of the company alongside security agencies to arrest the Manager of the establishment on the premise of operating without the counsel of the natives.
Apparently disturbed by the state government action, the management of the mining company, in a statement signed by its Managing Director Engineer Tim Eldon , expressed shock at the way and manner that the state government, through its Commissioner of Environment and Natural Resources, led security agencies to arrest a manager of the company on Sunday alleging illegal mining.
Engineer Eldon on his oart, said Timadix Geomin Consult Limited is fully licensed to operate in the area, stating that all requisite approvals from the local and other relevant authorities were obtained before it mobilised to site, adding that the accusation of illegal mining was a misnomer and calculated attempts to smear the image and reputation of the company.
“We were shocked when we got wind of the arrest of one of our managers, though he was released the same day after some preliminary investigations, but we are surprised that the commissioner alleged that we are operating in the area without the consent of the local and the state government.
“Furthermore, we have duly reported to the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development in Nasarawa State, where we also secured the required clearance to commence our legitimate mining activities in the state.
“It is, however, deeply regrettable and disheartening that the officials of the Nasarawa State Government, particularly the Commissioner of Environment has taken the law into his own hands by unlawfully issuing mining licenses to Chinese nationals to operate on the same site for which we hold legitimate licenses, permits, and documentation.
“This is a direct violations of the federal laws, as Mining is exclusively within the jurisdiction of the Federal Government” The MD said .
He however added that mining is exclusively within the purview of the Federal Government of Nigeria, as enshrined in the Constitution adding that no state governments nor their officials have the legal authority to issue mining licenses or interfere in mining-related activities.
However Nasarawa State Commissioner of Environment, Yakubu Kwanta, said that the revocation was in order as the firm was operating illegally, insisting that the company breached extant laws
Kwanta added that a lot of things are considered before granting mining licenses to any company.
He said, “The company was engaged in illegal mining activities, because it did not obtain community consent and following legal procedures to operate a mining site.
Kwararafa Reporters 