World Book of Records Honours Pastor Kumuyi for Exceptional Impact

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

LAGOS, NIGERIA – The global influence of the General Superintendent of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry, Pastor William Kumuyi, has received international acclaim as the World Book of Records, London, officially recognised him for his profound contributions to education, humanitarian service, and global outreach.

Pastor Kumuyi made the announcement public via a post on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, expressing profound gratitude while reiterating his core spiritual mandate.

“I received an Inclusion Letter from the World Book of Records, London, @WBRLONDON. Humbled by this recognition, my focus remains unchanged: winning souls for Christ,” Pastor Kumuyi wrote. Highlighting the remarkable reach of his global evangelical assignment, he added, “Through five years of #GCK, God enabled us to reach over 50 million lives and see more than 900,000 saved. All glory to God alone!”

The official inclusion letter, bearing the signature of the Chief Executive Officer of the World Book of Records, Santosh Shukla, confirmed that Pastor Kumuyi was honored under the prestigious Excellence (E1) category.

According to the organisation, the recognition was conferred in acknowledgement of his "outstanding contributions to education, academic excellence, visionary leadership, global outreach initiatives, humanitarian service, and community development, impacting millions of lives across continents through faith-based leadership, educational advancement, and international social empowerment programmes".

The World Book of Records further explained that the E1 category is strictly reserved for individuals demonstrating exceptional achievements, distinguished service, and notable contributions across professional, social, and humanitarian spectrums. Awardees under this tier are celebrated for establishing high benchmarks of excellence that inspire future generations.

As the founder and General Superintendent of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry, the convener of the Global Crusade with Kumuyi (GCK), and the founder and Chancellor of Anchor University, Lagos, Pastor Kumuyi has continued to bridge spiritual leadership with educational and societal development.

This latest international accolade cements his standing as one of the most influential spiritual leaders of our time, whose lifelong dedication to moral uprightness, education, and humanitarian outreach continues to resonate globally.

World Book of Records Honours Pastor Kumuyi for Exceptional Impact

LAGOS, NIGERIA – The global influence of the General Superintendent of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry, Pastor William Kumuyi, has received international acclaim as the World Book of Records, London, officially recognised him for his profound contributions to education, humanitarian service, and global outreach.

Pastor Kumuyi made the announcement public via a post on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, expressing profound gratitude while reiterating his core spiritual mandate.

“I received an Inclusion Letter from the World Book of Records, London, @WBRLONDON. Humbled by this recognition, my focus remains unchanged: winning souls for Christ,” Pastor Kumuyi wrote. Highlighting the remarkable reach of his global evangelical assignment, he added, “Through five years of #GCK, God enabled us to reach over 50 million lives and see more than 900,000 saved. All glory to God alone!”

The official inclusion letter, bearing the signature of the Chief Executive Officer of the World Book of Records, Santosh Shukla, confirmed that Pastor Kumuyi was honored under the prestigious Excellence (E1) category.

According to the organisation, the recognition was conferred in acknowledgement of his "outstanding contributions to education, academic excellence, visionary leadership, global outreach initiatives, humanitarian service, and community development, impacting millions of lives across continents through faith-based leadership, educational advancement, and international social empowerment programmes".

The World Book of Records further explained that the E1 category is strictly reserved for individuals demonstrating exceptional achievements, distinguished service, and notable contributions across professional, social, and humanitarian spectrums. Awardees under this tier are celebrated for establishing high benchmarks of excellence that inspire future generations.

As the founder and General Superintendent of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry, the convener of the Global Crusade with Kumuyi (GCK), and the founder and Chancellor of Anchor University, Lagos, Pastor Kumuyi has continued to bridge spiritual leadership with educational and societal development.

This latest international accolade cements his standing as one of the most influential spiritual leaders of our time, whose lifelong dedication to moral uprightness, education, and humanitarian outreach continues to resonate globally.

Presidency Hits Out at Cardinal Onaiyekan Over ARISE News Interview, Labeling It ‘Abuse of Clerical Privilege’

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Cardinal John Onaiyekan and Bola Ahmed Tinubu 

ABUJA, NIGERIA — The Presidency has rebuked Cardinal John Onaiyekan following his recent television appearance on ARISE News, where he publicly discussed details of a closed-door meeting between President Bola Tinubu and members of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN). Describing the cleric's actions as “an abuse of clerical privilege,” the government argued that a gross breach of confidentiality had occurred.

In an official statement released by Presidential Adviser Temitope Ajayi, the administration expressed deep displeasure over the decision of the Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja to grant an interview detailing what transpired behind closed doors.

According to the Presidency, the Catholic bishops had formally requested an audience with the President to table concerns regarding the nation's prevailing economic, social, and security difficulties. While President Tinubu reportedly listened patiently and addressed each point, the administration maintained that public post-meeting commentary violated the expected dignity and discretion of such high-level state visits.

“There is something fundamentally inappropriate about Cardinal John Onaiyekan granting a television interview to offer his own account and interpretation of what transpired during the private meeting between the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria and President Bola Tinubu. It is, in my view, an abuse of clerical privilege,” Mr Ajayi stated.

The statement further emphasized that reciprocity should have dictated that the confidentiality of the engagement be preserved, rather than converting privileged access into immediate television commentary.

Addressing the core of the discussions, the Presidency defended President Tinubu’s response to the bishops' characterisation of the country. The administration argued that the President did not dismiss their concerns, but rather challenged an assessment that failed to recognise the foundational economic recovery measures already put in place.

“He acknowledged that significant economic and security challenges remain. His point was that the country has emerged from ‘a dark tunnel’, that his administration has laid the foundations for recovery and that the next phase is to ensure the greatest number of Nigerians feels the gains,” the statement read.

The Presidency also pushed back against the notion that the President was defensive or aloof, highlighting that improvements such as regularised salary and pension payments across several states are tangible realities that should not be overlooked. On the request for the return of mission schools, the administration reiterated that the matter falls squarely under state government jurisdiction, noting that President Tinubu successfully pursued this policy during his tenure as Governor of Lagos State.

Rejecting the assertion that Nigeria is entirely "bleeding," the Presidency defended the Commander-in-Chief's perspective, noting that it is informed by operational intelligence briefs and security updates unavailable to the general public.

Furthermore, the government dismissed suggestions that the President relies solely on external critics or visiting delegations to understand the state of the nation, pointing out that he maintains wide-ranging channels of information, including daily intelligence reports and media analysis.

Concluding the statement, the Presidency reminded religious figures that high public office and spiritual leadership carry distinct obligations: “Clerical office carries privileges, but it also imposes obligations... Those virtues become even more important when dealing with matters of state.”

OSUN 2026: SIMTOP Leads Marine Journalists in Support for APC Governorship Candidate Oyebamiji

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

OSOGBO, NIGERIA – The National President of the Waterfront Boat Owners and Transporters Association of Nigeria (WABOTAN), Comrade Tope Fajemirokun (SIMTOP), led a delegation of the Coalition of Maritime Journalists of Nigeria on a solidarity visit to the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji.

The strategic visit, aimed at endorsing and supporting Oyebamiji's vision, was held in Osogbo in recognition of the APC candidate's sterling accomplishments during his tenure as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA).

During the interactive session, Asiwaju Oyebamiji unveiled his comprehensive economic blueprint titled A Pact for Growth, Inclusion and Lasting Development. The ambitious roadmap is specifically designed to transform Osun State into a flourishing investment, industrial, and tourism powerhouse by leveraging private sector-driven growth and resuscitating abandoned strategic assets.

Among the cornerstone projects highlighted in the development agenda are the revival of the Dagbolu Dry Port, the Osun Free Trade Zone, the Ido-Osun Airport, the Osun-Osogbo Grove, and the Oba Hills National Park. Oyebamiji emphasized that unlocking these dormant economic drivers will drastically improve trade facilitation, revolutionize logistics, and position Osun as a competitive export hub.

"We will resuscitate strategic economic assets that have the capacity to transform Osun's economy, stimulate private sector investment and create wealth for our people," Oyebamiji declared passionately to the gathering of journalists and marine stakeholders.

Beyond infrastructural revival, the APC flag bearer promised robust social intervention schemes aimed at cushioning vulnerable residents against economic hardships. He also gave firm assurances regarding the prompt payment of workers' salaries, improved working conditions, and the restoration of absolute dignity to the state's public service.

To tackle unemployment head-on, Oyebamiji outlined plans for public works initiatives and targeted enterprise support. Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are set to benefit immensely through enhanced access to microcredit facilities, specialized grants, and structured business development services designed to foster long-term sustainability.

Furthermore, his administration intends to modernize the educational sector, expand vocational training, upgrade healthcare facilities to achieve universal health coverage, and reposition the Osun State Investment Promotion Agency to drastically improve the ease of doing business.

Speaking on behalf of the visiting delegation, WABOTAN National President Comrade Tope Fajemirokun lauded Oyebamiji’s impressive track record as a high-performing public administrator. Fajemirokun expressed absolute confidence that the innovative leadership style and administrative excellence Oyebamiji displayed at NIWA will be seamlessly replicated in Osun State.

The WABOTAN leader further noted that Osun possesses immense, largely untapped potential to become a leading player in Nigeria's marine and blue economy. He stressed that through strategic public-private partnerships, vital tourism assets such as the Osun-Osogbo Grove and the Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls can be aggressively harnessed to generate massive employment and drive sustainable economic growth across the region.

RAK Angels, Clinch to Medals at National Softball Championship in Kwara

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – The Real Act of Kindness (RAK) Angels Baseball and Softball team has returned home in triumph after securing a third-place at the highly competitive Monimak Softball Championship held in Kwara State.

Arriving back in Badagry on Saturday, August 1, 2026, the team was met with celebration following their stellar performance among 13 elite clubs from across the country. Team members and officials were quick to dedicate their latest laurel to their sole benefactor, Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende, the pioneer of the RAK Development Foundation, and the grand patron of the team whose financial and moral backing has sustained the club since its inception.

Reflecting on the grueling tournament which began on July 27, the Head Coach of the RAK Angels, Hunvio Paul Mauzonsu, praised the resilience and grit of his players, noting that the journey to the podium was filled with intense challenges.

"We went on July 27th and came back this morning. At the end of the tournament, we came third out of 13 clubs that competed," Coach Mauzonsu told journalists. Highlighting the toughest hurdle of the competition, he pointed to the fierce Lagos derby against a formidable side from Mushin: "When you hear about a derby match, you will know it's going to be a tough one. Our players came from 6:1 down to eventually win at 7:6 through the effort of the players and the entire crew."

Coach Mauzonsu highlighted that all team members are homegrown talents recruited from various schools across Badagry. He added that the team has now participated in seven major tournaments, consistently returning home with medals since the club was founded in 2022 under Hon. Ogunlende’s sponsorship. He also called on parents to encourage their children to embrace sports as a powerful tool for confidence-building and youth engagement.

Echoing the coach's sentiments, the team captain, Oluwafemi Rejoice, emphasized the valuable lessons learned on the field.

"The tournament taught us various things, which include teamwork and the determination to win," Rejoice said. "We want to appreciate Hon. Ogunlende for his continuous support; without him, we wouldn't be part of the tournament. We so much appreciate it."

Team Manager Abdelrahman Bolanle shed light on the physical toll the championship took on the players, noting that several athletes sustained injuries in their fierce bid to bring home silverware.

"This game was a very tough game, as you can see that most of them are injured in the course of making sure they go home with something reasonable," Bolanle stated. 

"Most importantly, we need to thank Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende because without him, we couldn't come home with this we might not be able to attend at all. People are already getting to know RAK Angels, which is already going globally. There is a lot most people don't know about softball, as its players are the highest-paid, even more than football."

For first-base player Abubo Abigirl, the victory was a testament to teamwork bolstered by reliable backing.

"This tournament was tough for us, but with the support of RAK, it was easy for us," Abigirl remarked. "That is why all I'll say is thank you, Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende."

 

Volleyball Federation President Nimrod Lauds Customs Boss Adeniyi for Investment in the Sport

By: Manoah Kikekon 

Nimrod Lauds and CGC Adewale Adeniyi 

ABUJA, NIGERIA – The President of the Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF), Engineer Musa Nimrod, has heaped high praise on the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), CGC Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, for his visionary leadership and continuous financial backing of volleyball development in Nigeria.

The commendation follows a historic continental triumph on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, where the Nigerian U-18 Boys' Volleyball team clinched the championship title after a thrilling victory over Egypt in Alexandria.

Engineer Nimrod, who also heads the CAVB Beach Volleyball Commission, highlighted the profound impact the Customs boss has had on the sport since assuming office. Under CGC Adeniyi’s leadership, the NCS has heavily invested in local leagues, driving a surge in competitiveness and providing elite players with a formidable platform to hone their skills.

"I want to thank the Nigeria Customs Service under the leadership of CGC Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, for the tremendous support it has given the Nigeria Volleyball Federation," Nimrod stated following the team's continental success. "We will continue to seek the support of the Nigeria Customs Service in the years ahead because the Comptroller-General has remained one of the federation's strongest pillars."

Beyond funding tournaments and national team preparations, the NVBF President specifically commended the Customs Comptroller-General for prioritizing the economic welfare of athletes. Through strategic recruitment initiatives, the NCS has integrated numerous talented volleyball players into its workforce, offering them financial security and post-athletic career stability.

"It has been brought to my attention that a significant number of volleyball players have been employed by the Nigeria Customs Service," Nimrod noted. "The Nigeria Volleyball Federation is delighted with this development, and we look forward to sustaining and strengthening our partnership with the Service for the continued growth of volleyball in Nigeria."

LAWMA Commissions Rehabilitated Road and Platforms at Olusosun Dumpsite

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

OJOTA, LAGOS – In a step toward streamlining waste management operations across the metropolis, the Lagos State Government has commissioned a newly rehabilitated Road E and modern disposal platforms at the Olusosun Disposal Facility in Ojota.

The infrastructure upgrade, spearheaded by the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), is designed to tackle operational bottlenecks, accelerate truck turnaround times, and significantly enhance the efficiency of municipal waste evacuation across the state.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, explained that the project was initiated to counteract the disruptions caused by recent heavy downpours, which had previously slowed the movement of compactor trucks navigating the site.

According to Dr. Gbadegesin, the newly paved road and expanded disposal platforms will enable multiple waste vehicles to discharge simultaneously, easing traffic congestion within the facility.

"This project represents another important milestone in our commitment to building a more efficient and resilient waste management system for Lagos," Dr. Gbadegesin stated. "By improving access to the disposal facility and expanding operational capacity, we are addressing immediate challenges while laying the foundation for long-term improvements in waste evacuation across the state."

The successful completion of the road project was made possible through a strategic Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative by Zoomlion Nigeria Limited. Dr. Gbadegesin commended the firm, noting that the partnership has evolved into a robust technical collaboration focused on engineering modern waste infrastructure.

The Managing Director of Zoomlion Nigeria Limited, Mrs. Habiba Abubakar, revealed that the project was completed in just 26 days well ahead of schedule marking the first phase of a broader commitment to optimizing Lagos' waste transfer and disposal systems.

Furthermore, LAWMA disclosed that Zoomlion is actively constructing modern Transfer Loading Stations at Olusosun and Solous III, each engineered to process an impressive 2,500 metric tonnes of waste daily.

The intervention has drawn widespread praise from key private sector players, including Dr. Olugbenga Adebola, President of the Association of Waste Managers of Nigeria (AWAMN). Dr. Adebola noted that improved access at the dumpsite directly alleviates the logistical hurdles faced by Private Sector Participation (PSP) operators.

"The rehabilitated road and the additional disposal platforms would reduce operational bottlenecks faced by PSP operators, improve turnaround time for compactor trucks and ultimately enhance waste evacuation across the State," Adebola remarked.Manoah Kikekon 

LAWMA Commissions Rehabilitated Road and Platforms at Olusosun Dumpsite

OJOTA, LAGOS – In a step toward streamlining waste management operations across the metropolis, the Lagos State Government has commissioned a newly rehabilitated Road E and modern disposal platforms at the Olusosun Disposal Facility in Ojota.

The infrastructure upgrade, spearheaded by the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), is designed to tackle operational bottlenecks, accelerate truck turnaround times, and significantly enhance the efficiency of municipal waste evacuation across the state.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, explained that the project was initiated to counteract the disruptions caused by recent heavy downpours, which had previously slowed the movement of compactor trucks navigating the site.

According to Dr. Gbadegesin, the newly paved road and expanded disposal platforms will enable multiple waste vehicles to discharge simultaneously, easing traffic congestion within the facility.

"This project represents another important milestone in our commitment to building a more efficient and resilient waste management system for Lagos," Dr. Gbadegesin stated. "By improving access to the disposal facility and expanding operational capacity, we are addressing immediate challenges while laying the foundation for long-term improvements in waste evacuation across the state."

The successful completion of the road project was made possible through a strategic Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative by Zoomlion Nigeria Limited. Dr. Gbadegesin commended the firm, noting that the partnership has evolved into a robust technical collaboration focused on engineering modern waste infrastructure.

The Managing Director of Zoomlion Nigeria Limited, Mrs. Habiba Abubakar, revealed that the project was completed in just 26 days well ahead of schedule marking the first phase of a broader commitment to optimizing Lagos' waste transfer and disposal systems.

Furthermore, LAWMA disclosed that Zoomlion is actively constructing modern Transfer Loading Stations at Olusosun and Solous III, each engineered to process an impressive 2,500 metric tonnes of waste daily.

The intervention has drawn widespread praise from key private sector players, including Dr. Olugbenga Adebola, President of the Association of Waste Managers of Nigeria (AWAMN). Dr. Adebola noted that improved access at the dumpsite directly alleviates the logistical hurdles faced by Private Sector Participation (PSP) operators.

"The rehabilitated road and the additional disposal platforms would reduce operational bottlenecks faced by PSP operators, improve turnaround time for compactor trucks and ultimately enhance waste evacuation across the State," Adebola remarked.

1 Year in office: Hon. Rauf Yemaren Highlights Milestones in Badagry West LCDA

 By: Manoah Kikekon

Hon. Ibrahim Rauf Yemaren 

BADAGRY, LAGOS – Marking a significant milestone in grassroots governance, the Executive Chairman of Badagry West Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hon. Rauf Ibrahim Kayode Yemaren (RIKAY), has celebrated his first 365 days in office. 

Reflecting on a year defined by purposeful leadership and structural development, the Chairman expressed profound gratitude to residents for their unwavering support in building a more prosperous community.

Reflecting on the journey, Hon. Yemaren noted that his administration’s blueprint was anchored on practical, people-oriented programmes. "Together, we have laid a solid foundation for sustainable development and demonstrated that when leadership is driven by vision, accountability and compassion, meaningful progress is inevitable," the Chairman stated.

Over the past year, Badagry West LCDA witnessed a flurry of infrastructural and educational interventions designed to uplift rural and border communities. Key projects initiated or executed within the first 365 days include:

ICT & Health Development: Construction of a modern Computer-Based Test (CBT) Centre at Ganyingbo Topa and a modern Primary Health Care Centre at Asheri.

School Security: Delivery of model perimeter fencing projects at Methodist Primary School, Sawa, and L.A. Primary School, Apa.

Access to Learning: Sustained distribution of free GCE and JAMB forms, free holiday coaching, and specialized CBT training for students.

Roads & Mobility: Ongoing work on Gedu Road Phase I with drainage systems, grading and sand-filling of over 50 inner roads across the five wards, and strategic environmental interventions at the Gbaji International Link Bridge.

In the health sector, the administration upgraded Primary Health Centres with modern medical equipment, delivery beds, and sustained routine immunization campaigns, alongside successful polio eradication drives. Access to clean water was also boosted with a completed solar-powered borehole project in Akoko Community.

Recognizing security as the bedrock of community growth, the council renovated the Suntan Beach Police Post and institutionalized regular peace and security meetings, fostering tight collaboration with the Nigerian Army, Navy, Police, Immigration, NSCDC, FRSC, and traditional security institutions like the Zangbeto framework.

Social intervention programmes touched thousands of lives through food palliative distributions to over 10,000 residents, monthly support for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), sanitary pad distribution to teenage girls by the Office of the First Lady and WAPA, and robust economic empowerment initiatives that equipped artisans with working tools, deep freezers, sewing machines, and cash grants.

As a strategic coastal and border hub, Badagry West advanced its cultural footprint through active participation in World Tourism Day, Isese Day, the Badagry Diaspora Festival, and regional cross-border cooperation meetings under ABeGIEF. Governance was further strengthened through administrative capacity-building retreats and the provision of official utility vehicles to key executive and management functionaries.

Looking ahead to his second year in office, Hon. Yemaren announced plans to fast-track the proposed International Market at Gbaji Junction and establish a new public primary school within the Seme International Border corridor to serve growing populations.

"The foundation has been laid. The vision is clear. The journey continues, and together, the best is yet to come," Hon. Yemaren concluded.