By Laide Akinboade, Abuja

On behalf of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), I extend heartfelt congratulations to the founder and presiding bishop of Living Faith Church Worldwide (Winners’ Chapel), Bishop David Oyedepo, as he celebrates his remarkable 70th birthday.
In a statement issued by CAN, signed by Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and made available to media in Abuja.

The statement reads in parts, “As we honour Bishop Oyedepo today, we acknowledge his profound impact on the Christian community in Nigeria and beyond.

His unwavering commitment to the Gospel and his visionary leadership have inspired millions to seek a deeper relationship with God. Through his ministry, he has not only transformed lives spiritually but has also contributed significantly to educational development, economic empowerment, and social upliftment.

“In these challenging times, marked by socio-economic instability and increasing insecurity, Bishop Oyedepo’s teachings on faith, prosperity, and resilience have provided hope and direction for many. His steadfastness in preaching the message of love, unity, and faith reinforces the essential role of the Church in addressing the pressing issues facing our nation.

“As we reflect on the current realities of our society, we are reminded that the Church must remain a beacon of hope, promoting peace and reconciliation among diverse communities. Bishop Oyedepo’s emphasis on the Word of God as a foundation for living has become even more relevant, urging us to stand firm in our beliefs and to be agents of change in our communities.

“We celebrate not only his achievements but also his unwavering dedication to the Great Commission, encouraging believers to spread the message of Christ’s love. His life is a shining example of the power of faith in action, and we pray that God continues to grant him strength, wisdom, and grace in many years ahead.

“As he enters this new decade, we pray that God will bless him abundantly and that his ministry will continue to flourish, bringing light to those in darkness and hope to the hopeless.

” Once again, congratulations to Bishop David Oyedepo on this significant milestone. May the Lord bless you richly”.

By Tony Obiechina, Abuja

The office of the Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman, has announced that the hacking of the Minister’s WhatsApp number.

This was contained in a statement by the Director, Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Education, Mrs Folasade Boriowo.

According to the statement, the Minister’s number is currently being used by unauthorized individuals.

“We wish to inform the general public that the Minister’s WhatsApp number has been hacked and is currently being used by unauthorized individuals.

We deeply regret any inconvenience this may cause and urge everyone to disregard any message of request received from the said number until further notice.

“The matter has been reported to the relevant authorities and is under investigation. We advise all members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity”, the statement said.

By Laide Akinboade, Abuja

Unhappy with the ongoing strike by Primary School teachers in Abuja, the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike,  on Thursday, threatened to use 10% of Internally Generated Revenue, IGR,  meant for the Area Councils to pay striking Primary School teachers in the FCT.

The Minister who was worried and unhappy that after helping the 6 Area Councils with 40% of the money being owed by them, the Area Councils are still owing the teachers to the extent of them going on strike.

The Minister stated this at the sidelines of his  Inspection of the ongoing Apo-Karshi Road project.

He said it is unacceptable  that children are  affected by the strike which has gone on for over a week, adding that no serious government would allow it.

Recall that the teachers had resumed their strike on Wednesday, 18th September 2024, following a 14-day ultimatum previously issued to the Area Council Chairmen by the FCT Wing of the Nigeria Union of Teachers.

The teachers are demanding among others, the implementation of 40% Peculiar Allowance, and payment of 25 months Minimum Wage Arrears.

The Minister added that he has already invited the Chairmen of the Area Council and the FCT NUT leadership to discuss the issue.

“I have invited the Area Council Chairmen and then I’ve invited the NUT, and let’s sit down. These are the things we talk about. We try to do what we can do in order to see that the system is moving well. It is unfortunate, which I told the Area Council Chairmen, that the teachers are on strike”.

“And that will mean that if the teachers are not paid, then I will use the 10% IGR, which nobody paid to them, to pay the teachers. I will not fold my arms and allow that to happen. No serious government will allow their teachers to stay at home while the children are suffering, I will not tolerate that.

“I will not fold my arms and allow that to happen. No serious government will see their teachers stay at home and children are suffering. I will not tolerate that”, he said.