Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has said the state’s survival and progress over the past 50 years are rooted in faith, resilience and ethical leadership.

He spoke on Sunday at a Golden Jubilee Thanksgiving Service marking Ondo State’s 50th anniversary, held at St Thomas’ Anglican Church in Isinkan, Akure.

The event formed part of activities commemorating the creation of Ondo State in 1976 and brought together political leaders, traditional rulers and members of the Christian community.

Governor Aiyedatiwa described the anniversary as a moment for gratitude and reflection, saying the state’s journey had been shaped by divine guidance and the determination of its people.

He said Ondo was founded as a beacon of unity, opportunity and good governance, built on values that promote human dignity, communal responsibility and moral conduct.

According to the governor, faith has played a key role in guiding leaders and communities through difficult periods, providing “courage, wisdom and conscience” over five decades.

He acknowledged the influence of the Church in the state’s development, describing Christian leaders as vital to promoting moral values, social cohesion and civic responsibility.

“Through worship, teaching and counsel, the Church has strengthened the moral foundation upon which governance rests,” he said.

The governor also praised the people of Ondo State for their resilience, saying their labour and unity had sustained families, institutions and communities across generations.

He commended past and present leaders for their contributions to governance and development, while urging citizens to see the jubilee not just as a celebration, but as a call to responsible stewardship.

Governor Aiyedatiwa said his administration remained committed to inclusive growth, youth empowerment and human capital development through education, skills acquisition and enterprise.

He also pledged to strengthen institutions to promote transparency, accountability and sustainable development, while preserving the cultural and moral values of the state.

“Faith, when combined with visionary leadership and active citizen engagement, serves as a compass through uncertainty and opportunity,” he added.

In his sermon, the Bishop of Akure Diocese and Archbishop of Ondo and Ekiti Province, Most Reverend Simeon Borokini, urged leaders and citizens to uphold integrity, discipline and moral values as the state looks to the future.

He said the 50th anniversary was not only a government milestone but a collective responsibility for all residents of Ondo State.

“Leaders must lead with integrity. Leaders must guide with wisdom. Citizens must rise with discipline and innovation,” Archbishop Borokini said.

He called on the Church and faith community to pray for the state and to speak truth to power.

“Let thanksgiving be gratitude with humility, reflection with repentance, and celebration with responsibility,” he added.

The Archbishop prayed for continued peace, development and innovation in Ondo State, expressing hope that the next 50 years would bring greater prosperity.

The thanksgiving service was attended by the Ondo State First Lady, Mrs Esther Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa; Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami; Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt Hon Olamide Oladiji; and Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti.

Other dignitaries included former deputy governors, members of the state executive council, lawmakers, traditional rulers, security chiefs and political leaders.

By Shakirudeen Bankole

It was glitz and glamour over the weekend at the Grace of Glory Church in the Opebi area of Lagos, as religious leaders and devoted worshippers gathered to celebrate one of the leading lights in the Nigerian Christendom, Prophet Biyi Adebamowo.

Adebamowo, a devoted man of God whose imprint of devotion, leadership and service to mankind transcends Nigeria and the United Kingdom, had just turned 65.

In commemoration of the milestone, a special occasion was scheduled to coincide with the launch of his book titled The Good Treasure.

It was a select gathering of elites in the vineyard of the Lord, as the intimidating profiles of invited guests reflected a beautiful blend of professional excellence and spiritual sagacity.

As early as 5pm, guests had begun to gather. One after the other, they were warmly received into the venue by the church ushers, who were extremely polite and courteous.

“You are welcome to our church,” this reporter overheard one of the ushers repeatedly say, with a beautiful smile to accompany the greeting.

They would subsequently find their way to meet the waiting celebrant and his beautiful wife, all cladded in natives with matching adornments.

The host pastor, who also doubles as the Founder of the Grace of Glory Church, Pastor Mike Adebamowo, is a revered academic and an accomplished professor. He is also the younger brother of the celebrant, at whose behest the convergence was held.

Beyond the lavish accolades from friends, family and mentees, the occasion also featured spiritual activities such as Altar Call, Prophetic Sermons, praise and worship, and as well as reminders to worshippers to rededicate themselves to their purpose of creation, service to God and humanity.

Two powerful keynote addresses were delivered by Prophet Deji Afolorunsho on “The Mystery of Birthright” and Dr Kunle Hamilton on “Redefining Your Purpose.” A prophetic charge was delivered by Pastor Ademola Salawu, alongside multiple goodwill messages.

In their presentations, the keynote speakers inspired the audience with admonitions grounded in purpose, focus and discipline.

Prophet Deji defined birthright as the rightful possession of a child from his or her parents or lineage. He, however, argued that there are both seen and unseen mysteries in every birthright that can constitute serious impediments to accessing such inheritance.

According to him, lack of discipline, laziness, treachery and a laid back attitude are some of the major hindrances.

“The Bible says that because of Joseph’s discipline and refusal of the allurement to fornication, he was granted ultimate access to the throne. Although he experienced imprisonment, which was necessary for him to learn leadership and interpret his dreams, if he had not been disciplined, focused and determined, he would have lost his birthright.

“The same scenario applies to us today. There is nothing we can do successfully without purity of intention, abstinence from evil and fornication, and the rejection of laziness,” he preached.

Taking the baton from him, the second keynote speaker, Dr Hamilton, said a purposeful life is one that is lived daily in the pursuit of good.

According to him, “If you cannot find your purpose in life, you can still fulfil God’s purpose for all creation, which is to worship Him and serve humanity.”

He said no one who has lived such a life has ever regretted being born or been lost in the vicissitudes of life.

One of the dignitaries at the event, Most Senior Evangelist, Solomon Gbolaga Oshofa, one of the Children of Oshofa, Founder of Celestial Church of Christ, said Prophet Adebamowo has been a role model and mentor in the work of God.

“Daddy, you are truly an inspiration to many of us. I remember several times you would call me to correct, guide and support me every step of the way. There were moments you would see my writings on social media and call to discuss them, offering your opinions with guidance and encouragement.

“We are very grateful for the gift of you. You are indeed a dedicated man of God who does not give in to the temptation of money but remains committed to the true work of God,” he said.

The book reviewer, Evangelist Mordecai Adekanbi, said the 25 chapter book is a compendium of inspirational knowledge that would help reinforce faith and serve as a navigational tool in finding the only true God.

He noted that the reality of today’s world has shrunk the crusade of conversion, as people now watch what Christians do rather than what they say.

According to him, this reality has necessitated the need to reawaken believers to return to God and ensure their lives exemplify the essence of creation.

Adekanbi concluded that “in this time of distractions and iniquities, this book serves as a beautiful reminder, a moral compass, a guiding light and a clarion call for all to return to God and fulfil His will on earth.”

Showering encomiums on the celebrant, dignitaries described Prophet Adebamowo as a dedicated man of God, dependable leader and fearless soldier of faith who has been in the forefront of crusades and the evangelisation of the Christian faith.

“I used to live in the United Kingdom before relocating back home. Between 2005 and 2007, we had remarkable experiences with the celebrant. His leadership, teachings and impact were indelible. He led successful ministrations and revivals. I recall a programme called Talents of Gospel, a contest showcasing gifted preachers. He was one of the visionaries behind it. I thank him for his steadfastness, love for the Word of God and his tremendous impact on lives,” Oke eulogised.

Rebecca Oluwasegun, one of the celebrant’s nieces, said her uncle is an amazing man of God whose devotion and selflessness are worthy of emulation.

“What I love most about my uncle is that he is kind and selfless. He always puts others above himself, and that is an attribute I have learned from him,” she said.

She explained that applying the principles of selflessness she learned from her uncle has helped her navigate the complexities of her digital marketing business.

“Just like my uncle, I always think about how my actions will affect my team. I try to be kind and put myself in their shoes. This has helped in promoting loyalty, trust and dedication in my business,” she explained.

Speaking with our correspondent, the celebrant said he was humbled by the tributes and the turnout at the book launch.

He explained that choosing his 65th birthday for the launch was a way of expressing gratitude to God for His faithfulness in his life.

“I am deeply humbled by the tributes and the description of me as a dedicated man of God. However, I believe there are still many fallow grounds to be covered. The entire Christendom has become a global village, and what God requires of us is to go out and ensure that the unreached are reached,” he said.

Speaking on the content of the book, the celebrant, who is also the author, said the work is essentially about the hidden treasures in the divine attributes of God for humanity.

“What I want readers to take away from the book is that God is a merciful God, and His mercy is sufficient to sustain us,” he added.

The Asher Praise Concert will return for its third edition on 27 December, with organisers announcing wider community support for widows and children alongside a night of worship in Lagos.

The event, themed “THE BREAKING – Court of Repentance,” will take place at Solution Arena, Onipanu, along Ikorodu Road. It is expected to draw worshippers, gospel artistes and church communities from across Nigeria.

Organisers say this year’s concert will focus on repentance, compassion and social outreach at a time when many families are battling economic pressure.

Why It Matters

Faith-based charity groups across Nigeria have become increasingly active as households struggle with rising costs of living.

The Asher Praise team says its annual “Do You Love Me?” outreach will support 200 widows this year, while also assisting school-aged children whose parents cannot afford fees.

“It is part of our commitment to extend our love to the community and the love of Christ beyond ourselves,” said event host Tosin Akinfolarin.

She also said a special prayer session would be held for “kingdom financiers” — Christians who support faith work with their resources.

What Organisers Are Saying

Event organisers told journalists that the concert was designed as a “worship and giving” platform rather than a commercial event.

“This year, the Lord has instructed that we emphasise on kingdom financiers… There’s going to be a short prayer session for them,”

Akinfolarin explained.

They also noted that benefitting widows would be attended to on a first-come, first-served basis.

“We are planning for 200 people. Any widows who come early enough will be able to get the support package,” a spokesperson said.

Children from low-income families will also be supported through the Rose in the Desert Foundation, which coordinates the outreach arm of the concert.

Industry & Public Reactions

Religious events of this scale often attract wide social media engagement, with many Nigerians using end-of-year concerts to reflect on their spiritual growth.

A gospel music analyst, speaking independently, said events like Asher Praise were “increasingly becoming cultural hubs,” merging worship with charity in ways that resonate with younger Christians.

Social media posts about the event have already seen rising engagement, especially on Instagram and TikTok where gospel music communities are active.

What to Expect at the Concert

This year’s concert features a line-up of leading gospel artistes:

Sunmisola Agbebi-Okeleye

Favour Ojo

Olayinka Erinle

Tunde Ara

Joanna Obasi

Naomi Odukoya

Solomon Mayowa

Minister Tosin Bee

Organisers say the event will blend contemporary, cultural and traditional gospel music, with a strong emphasis on repentance and revival.

The sermon will be delivered by Pastor Victor Oba.

“We trust God to hear us from His holy heaven as we gather in the contriteness of our hearts,” an organising committee member added.

Security and Safety Measures

The organisers assured attendees of tight security.

Police officers, private security personnel and trained protocols will be deployed at the venue.

“Your car is safe. There’s full security at the gate and proper checks before people come in or leave,” a team member said.

Event Details

Date: 27 December 2025

Venue: Solution Arena, Onipanu, Ikorodu Road, Lagos

Time: 4:00pm prompt

Hashtag: #AsherPraiseConcert2025