The Profound Power of Parental Blessings and Prayers.

The Profound Power of Parental Blessings and Prayers.

By: Comr. Olamide Akinwumi James. 

In the intricate tapestry of human life, few threads are as essential and enduring as the blessings and prayers of parents. From the moment we take our first breaths to the milestones we achieve as adults, the love, guidance, and spiritual support provided by our parents shape our destinies in ways both tangible and profound. This article explores the importance of parental blessings and prayers, shedding light on their timeless significance across cultures and generations.

Parental blessings and prayers are often born out of the deepest wellsprings of unconditional love. From the very beginning, parents nurture, protect, and cherish their children, forming a bond that transcends words. This love becomes the foundation upon which blessings and prayers are built, and it imparts a sense of security and belonging crucial to a child's emotional and psychological development.

Life is filled with challenges, uncertainties, and unexpected twists. In these moments, the blessings and prayers of parents serve as guiding lights in the darkness. Whether it's facing academic hurdles, career choices, or personal trials, knowing that one's parents have asked for strength, wisdom, and protection from a higher power can provide immeasurable comfort and resilience.

Blessings and prayers are not mere rituals; they are powerful words that carry intention and energy. When parents bless their children, they bestow wishes for happiness, health, and success. When they pray for their well-being, they harness the profound ability of belief and faith. These words, infused with love and hope, have the potential to manifest positive outcomes in a child's life.

The significance of parental blessings and prayers extends across cultures and religions. In Christianity, parents often offer prayers of dedication and protection for their children through rites like baptism. In Hinduism, parents may perform the sacred "Aarti" ceremony to bless their children. Similar traditions exist in Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, and countless other belief systems. These rituals emphasize the role of parents as spiritual guardians, ensuring their children are guided by faith and morality.

During times of adversity or personal struggles, parental blessings and prayers can provide a deep well of strength. They remind individuals of their roots, the values instilled by their parents, and the enduring love that surrounds them. This source of strength can be a lifeline, helping children weather life's storms with resilience and grace.

The impact of parental blessings and prayers extends beyond the immediate generation. Just as parents carry the hopes and dreams of their own parents, they, too, pass on these blessings to their children. This generational continuity creates a beautiful tapestry of love and faith, weaving together the past, present, and future of a family's legacy.

In Conclusion, Parental blessings and prayers are a timeless and universal testament to the enduring power of love, faith, and hope. They are the invisible hands that guide us through life's journey, providing solace in times of distress and inspiration in moments of triumph. In a world that often feels uncertain, the unwavering support and spiritual guidance of parents remain a beacon of light, illuminating the path towards a fulfilling and purposeful life. So, let us cherish and honor these precious gifts, recognizing their profound importance in shaping who we are and who we aspire to be.

Victor Osimhen's Hat-Trick Leads Nigeria to a Resounding 6-0 Victory Over Sao Tome in AFCON Qualifiers.

Victor Osimhen's Hat-Trick Leads Nigeria to a Resounding 6-0 Victory Over Sao Tome in AFCON Qualifiers.

In a spectacular display of football prowess, Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen delivered a stunning hat-trick as the Super Eagles soared to a commanding 6-0 victory against Sao Tome and Principe in the final match of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The game took place on Sunday evening at the electrifying Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.

Heading into this decisive encounter, Nigeria, led by coach Jose Peseiro, had already secured an impressive 12 points from five matches, firmly perched atop Group A. Their dominant performance throughout the qualifiers had secured their spot in the upcoming 2023 Nations Cup. In stark contrast, Sao Tome and Principe, their opponents, had struggled, managing to secure only a single point and languishing at the bottom of the group.

Despite the odds stacked against them, Sao Tome's captain, Luis Leal, had boldly declared his team's intentions, vowing to "thrash" and "humiliate" the Super Eagles. However, as the match unfolded, it became abundantly clear that Nigeria had other plans.

The Super Eagles wasted no time in exciting their fans, seizing control early in the game and netting the opener in the 13th minute. From there, it was Victor Osimhen's show. The Napoli striker delivered a dazzling hat-trick, showcasing his incredible talent and goal-scoring prowess.

But Osimhen was not alone in the spotlight. Ademola Lookman, Taiwo Awoniyi, and substitute Samuel Chukwueze each contributed a goal to Nigeria's emphatic victory, completing a comprehensive 6-0 thrashing of Sao Tome and Principe.

This resounding win secured Nigeria's place at the top of Group A, leaving them in prime position as they prepare for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. Guinea Bissau, their nearest competitors, will have to settle for second place in the group.

The Super Eagles' dominant performance in this final qualifier not only thrilled their fans but also sent a clear message to their rivals as they set their sights on glory in the upcoming AFCON tournament.

I Praise Adeleke for Being a Dancing and Working Governor - Obasanjo.

I Praise Adeleke for Being a Dancing and Working Governor - Obasanjo.

....Rallies Support of Ooni, Others for Osun Governor.

Former Nigerian President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, has lauded Governor Ademola Adeleke for proving his critics wrong by being a dancing but hard working Governor in the governance affairs of the state.

During his address at the 16th Harvest Anniversary and Thanksgiving Service held at the Love of Christ Generation Church C&S in Victoria Island, Lagos State, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo cited the Governor as an example of a leader who is not ashamed to praise God despite occupying highest office in the state, positing that dancing and working for God and the people are things to be proud of.

"Mr Governor, they call you a dancer. But you are dancing to praise God. And I heard you are working hard for your people", Chief Obasanjo who spoke in Yoruba language affirmed.

In an event attended by the Ooni of Ife, His Majesty, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi; the Publisher of Ovation Magazine, Aare Dele Momodu; Osun State House of Assembly Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adewale Egbedun and members of Osun House of Assembly; and top political and traditional rulers, Chief Obasanjo said "dancing to praise God is praise worthy especially with the reports of good developments happening in Osun state.

"God whom you are praising will shower his blessings on your state and government. I associate with you.

"Again, I learnt you are a listening leader. They said you take advice from the young and old. I am happy to hear that. 

"I call on His Majesty ,the Ooni of Ife and other royal fathers to support the Governor to deliver more. Mr Governor, continue to work closely with traditional rulers, elders and stakeholders of your state.

"I charge Kabiyesi Ooni to always host close door meetings with the Governor. God whom the Governor is praising will continue to support him. He will not fail", Chief Obasanjo concluded.

Speaking at the event, Governor Adeleke said his habit of praise worship is to celebrate the owner of heaven and earth, saying "I am never ashamed to hold unto God through song and dance.

"Several men and women of God predicted my governorship. I am here to praise God for the prophecy that has come to pass. My communion with God is to come back to thank and praise him.

"I do this in several places of worship. My covenant with God is also to truly deliver dividends of democracy to my people. In 100 days in office, I did what many could not achieve in four years.

"We reformed the public service, attended to workers welfare, constructed and reconstructed over 40 kilometers of roads, implemented free medical surgeries with more than 40,000 beneficiaries.

"We are working on super overhead bridges to ease connectivity. We are reforming the education sector. We are building up our agriculture sector. I am working to make Osun state a reference point.

"I seek your prayers. I solicit your support. We are committed to God and the people", the Governo concluded.

Signed:

Mallam Olawale Rasheed,

Spokesperson to the Governor

FPASU Appeals to State Government for Assistance in Addressing Odo Ado Road Flooding.

FPASU Appeals to State Government for Assistance in Addressing Odo Ado Road Flooding.

In a desperate plea for immediate action, the Federal Polytechnic Ado-Ekiti Students Union has sent an urgent appeal to the Ekiti State Government regarding the severe flooding crisis along the Odo Ado to Federal Polytechnic Ado-Ekiti road. The crisis, which has significantly disrupted the lives of students and local communities, is now exacerbated by a dangerous pothole in the vicinity of Saint Paul's Anglican Church, Odo Ado, Ado-Ekiti.

In Pic: His Excellency, Governor Biodun Oyebanji Abayomi, Executive Governor of Ekiti State. 

Despite being a federal government road, the flooding issue has reached a critical point, prompting the students' union to seek state government intervention. The flooding not only poses a threat to the safety of motorists but also leads to prolonged traffic jams, causing substantial delays for commuters. This situation has made it increasingly difficult for students and staff to attend lectures and carry out their daily activities efficiently.

The students and residents of Erifun, Ureje, Emirin, Olókè méjì, and Odò Ado communities are severely affected by this crisis. While the responsibility for maintaining and repairing federal government roads rests with the federal authorities, the urgency of the situation has compelled the students' union to request immediate state government assistance as a temporary measure to mitigate the ongoing issues.

The primary concern is the safety and well-being of students and the entire community. By addressing this pressing matter, the state government can ensure the safety of its citizens and contribute to the uninterrupted pursuit of education in the area.

Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief Mrs. Christianah Monisade Afuye accompanied by other top government functionaries during visitation to the Road.

The students' union has appealed for the swift repair of the dangerous pothole and overall road improvement as an interim solution until federal government intervention occurs. Their hope is that this prompt action will allow students to resume their academic activities without further disruptions.

The Student Union Government President, Comr Olubodun Abiodun Johnson HARRY, emphasized the urgency of the matter and offered further assistance to facilitate the intervention. The appeal letter expressed gratitude for the state government's willingness to address this issue.

In Pic: Comr. Olubodun Abiodun Johnson HARRY, The Student Union Government President of Federal Polytechnic Ado-Ekiti.

The community and students eagerly await the state government's response and action, hoping for a swift resolution to this crisis that affects their lives profoundly. The pressing question now is whether the state government will heed this urgent appeal and provide the much-needed relief to those affected by the flooding and road conditions.

Minister of Information, ldris charges Nigerians to uphold national values.

Minister of Information, ldris charges Nigerians to uphold national values.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris has assured Nigerians that the current administration will continue to develop policies that promote National values and Orientation among the citizens. He was speaking at a grand reception organized by the Niger State Government, to honour political gladiators from the state, on Saturday, September 9, 2023.

He urged state governments to support the Federal Government in the project of re-orientating Nigerians, without which, he said, there cannot be meaningful development.

The Minister said the ongoing disbursement of palliatives across the states will be a continuous exercise until the hardship being experienced by citizens as a result of fuel subsidy removal is addressed.

He said the Federal Government is conscious of the people's needs, and the 8-point agenda was designed and implemented to address the leading socio-economic challenges and create jobs for the youth.

In his remarks, the Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umar Bago, congratulated those who secured political positions at both the federal and state levels and urged them to be good ambassadors of the state. He lauded the Federal Government’s plans to ameliorate the suffering of the citizens, promising that the state governors would play their part in ensuring that the palliatives reach those for whom they were intended. He noted that Niger State provides opportunities for agriculture with its mass arable land, saying it can play a huge role in the Federal Government’s desire for more prosperity for Nigerians.

The event was well attended by Nigerites across political parties. including heads of traditional institutions in the state.

Meanwhile, the Minister paid courtesy visits to two former heads of state, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, and General Abdulsalami Abubakar.

At the home of the two statesmen, the Minister said visits to elders are part of our cultural heritage and the fatherly role that they provided for this country over the years will continue to be appreciated. He informed them of the resolve of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to return Nigeria to its path of glory.

General Abdulsalami congratulated President Tinubu's administration for clocking 100 days in office and the Hon. Minister, on his appointment.

"The information portfolio is a tough job, having to market the image of the government at a difficult time. I do not, however, doubt your capabilities, considering your media background, I’m sure you will do well.”

“The government faced a very difficult situation and inherited many challenges with the economy, fuel subsidies, and security. Nigerians, as a people, want changes to happen quickly. So, my message to them is they should join hands with the government to overcome these challenges.”

The Hon. Minister, responding to questions from the media, indicated that elder statesmen are always known to preach peace and unity, and they have commended Mr. President for his efforts in ensuring that there is peace and stability in Nigeria.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is always talking about using our diversity for prosperity, and that is the message the elder statesmen also echoed here.”

“Nigeria is a very diverse country, and we should use that diversity positively for the progress and development of our dear nation.”

Venite University Appoints Professor Olabisi Idowu AINA as Chairman of the Governing Council.

Venite University Appoints Professor Olabisi Idowu AINA as Chairman of the Governing Council. 

Special Release:

Professor Olabisi Idowu AINA FSSAN

B.Sc. /M.Phil./Ph.D. Ife; Cert. UCL, London.

Venite University Iloro-Ekiti has appointed Professor Olabisi Idowu Aina, FSSAN, as the Chairman of the Governing Council, effective September 5, 2023. 

Professor Aina is a distinguished Professor of Sociology and Gender Studies, a Fellow of the Social Science Academy of Nigeria, and former President of Nigeria Anthropological and Sociology Association Practitioners. She holds BSc/MPhil/PhD degrees in Sociology/Anthropology from the Obafemi Awolowo University and a Certificate in Gender Policy and Planning from the University College London.

In Pic: Professor Olabisi Idowu AINA FSSAN

B.Sc. /M.Phil./Ph.D. Ife; Cert. UCL, London.

Professor Aina has built an impeccable reputation as an outstanding scholar and administrator in her career in academia spanning over three decades. She started her academic career at the Obafemi Awolowo University as an Assistant Lecturer in 1987 and rose to the position of Professor in October 2000. Her academic career is enriched with several honors and awards, including the Ford Foundation Scholarship Award for Postgraduate Studies, and CODESRIA Ph.D. Thesis Writing Award, CIDA Fellowship Award in Women's Studies at Mount Saint Vincent University and the University of Dalhousie, both in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada in 1990 – 1991, Fellowship award under the OAU-Wisconsin Linkage Program in African-American Studies at the University of Wisconsin - Parkside,  Kenosha, Wisconsin (USA); British Chevening Scholarship for a Certificate Course in Gender Policy and Planning, Development Planning Unit, University College London, England in 1996 among others.

Professor Aina brings a wealth of administrative and academic experience to her new position as Chairman of the Council, having served the university system in Nigeria and elsewhere in various capacities. At the Obafemi Awolowo University, she served in various leadership and academic positions, including a 5-year term as Head of, the Department of Sociology/Anthropology; Director of, the Centre for Gender and Social Policy Studies (2004 - 2006); and Dean, of Faculty of Social Sciences, 2011 to 2013. Also, she served in other Nigerian Universities in various capacities including Ag. Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences, Lagos State University in 2009; the Foundation Director, Centre for Gender and Development Studies, Ekiti State University, 2014 - 2015; and the Pioneer Director, Centre for Gender, Humanitarian and Development Studies, at the Redeemer’s University (2019 - 2022). 

At the national level, Professor Aina recorded landmark achievements for her commitment to transformative national development through her contributions to the development of national, state, and institutional Gender and Social Inclusion Policies and Programs. Currently, she is a member of the Board of Trustees of the Legislative Advocacy Coalition on Violence against Women (LACVAW) and a member of the National Research Fund Screening and Monitoring Committee of TETFUND.

Professor Aina continues to work closely with CSOs, Governments, and Development Partners in reshaping the gender and social development agenda in Nigeria and within the African region.  Her scholarly research, with over 150 publications in learned journals, books, and technical reports has been translated into guiding frames for development practice, in the fields of education, institutional governance, social development, peacebuilding, and humanitarian studies. 

As Chairman of the Council, Professor Aina will leverage her vast academic and administrative experience in guiding the University’s strategic direction towards excellence in education, research, and community engagements, and enhance the overall academic experience for our students.

Venite University is thrilled to welcome Professor Aina as the Chairman of the Venite University Governing Council, We remain confident that her leadership will help Venite University emerge as a promising institution of higher learning dedicated to academic excellence, research, and community engagement and a University committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders and scholars with renewed value for positive impact on the society.

Governor Akeredolu Reaffirms Unyielding Commitment to Port Ondo Project.

Governor Akeredolu Reaffirms Unyielding Commitment to Port Ondo Project.

In Pic: His Excellency Governor Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu Aketi, SAN, CON, Executive Governor of Ondo State. 

In a resounding declaration of dedication to the economic prosperity of Ondo State, Governor Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu Aketi, SAN, CON, has reiterated his administration's unwavering commitment to the realization of a Deep Sea port in the Sunshine State. At a recent Stakeholders' meeting with Ondo State's National Assembly members, Governor Akeredolu left no room for doubt, proclaiming, "There is no going back on the actualization of this lofty project."

The Deep Sea port project has been hailed as a pivotal step towards bolstering Ondo State's economic development, and Governor Akeredolu's steadfast determination to see it through is a testament to his vision for a brighter future. The port is expected to stimulate trade, create jobs, and catalyze overall growth within the state.

The Governor's call for unity and collaboration resonated strongly during the meeting, as he urged federal lawmakers from Ondo State to join hands in supporting this transformative initiative. He underlined his administration's commitment to laying a solid foundation for Port Ondo, ensuring its long-term success and benefits for the people of Ondo.

In response to Governor Akeredolu's impassioned plea, Senator Jide Ipinsagba, representing Ondo North, spoke on behalf of the National Assembly members. He assured the Governor of the full support of Ondo NASS Caucus and expressed gratitude for Governor Akeredolu's safe return, offering heartfelt prayers for his continued protection and well-being.

The resolute commitment of Governor Akeredolu and the unified efforts of Ondo State's political leaders herald a bright and promising future for the Sunshine State. With the Deep Sea port project firmly on track, Ondo State is poised to achieve new heights of economic prosperity and development, ensuring a better quality of life for its citizens.