By Nahum Sule, Jalingo

Making the event that marked the Nigeria Union of Journalists at 70, the Taraba State chapter of the NUJ Honour chief David Sabo Kente as the philanthropist man of the year

The award presentation was held in Jalingo, the state capital, at the grand finale of the NUJ Press Week celebration.

Speaking at the ceremony, the state chairman of NUJ, Mr Eliud Jen, noted that the awards were carefully chosen base on concrete evidence of performance in various categories and meant to spur the awardees to do more.

Chief Kente, who was the governorship aspirants of the All Progressives Congress APC, in 2023, has used his foundation, The DSK foundation, to help thousands of Taraban through scholarship, Small Medium Enterprises and lot more.

While congratulating the union for attaining 70 years, Kente called on government investors and everyone to give the union a support hand to enable its members to continue discharging their duties effectively.

Others who were awarded for outstanding performance are His Excellency Dr, Agbu Kefas the governor of Taraba State, Alhaji Yakubu Jafaru Chiroma, member representing Bali/Gassol Federal constituency, Dr Aisha Adamu, the CMD of Federal Medical Centre Jalingo, Hon. Aminu Hassan, ALGON chairman in the State, Professor Joseph Albasu Kunini, former Speaker of Taraba State and Professor Sunday Bako, Vice Chancellor Taraba State University Jalingo, the state Commissioner of Women Affairs and Child Development Mrs Mary Sinjen, Commandant 6 Brigade Jalingo Gen. Kinsley Uwa and several others were also given recognition as friends of the press.

Kente further appreciated journalists for finding him worthy to be honour, emphasizing that the award will spur him to do more.

The Concerned Christian Youth Forum has strongly denounced the ongoing violence in Nigeria’s Plateau and Benue states, describing the attacks by bandits as an “affront to natural justice” and a violation of human dignity.

In a statement issued on Thursday by the group’s convener, James Paul Adama, the forum called for an immediate end to the “relentless onslaught” against innocent civilians.

“This human carnage must stop,” Adama said, urging the government to take swift action to halt the attacks and support affected communities in their recovery and rebuilding efforts.

The group demanded that the perpetrators of these “atrocious acts” be brought to justice, stressing that all Nigerians deserve safety and security.

“The time for action is now,” the statement added.

While commending the efforts of Nigeria’s security agencies, the forum called for intensified measures to curb the violence.

“We ask that they redouble their efforts to nip this menace in the bud,” Adama said, acknowledging the sacrifices of security personnel.

“Your courage and commitment to safeguarding the lives and properties of our citizens are an inspiration to us all.”

The statement also highlighted the constitutional duty of the government and security forces to ensure the safety and well-being of Nigerians, describing the violence as a threat not only to the affected communities but to the nation’s survival.

THEME: IGNITE THE FIRE

The atmosphere was electric as thousands of worshippers within and outside Kogi State gathered at Afims hotel, Oro, Obehira road for the highly anticipated event.The programme which was to start by 7p.m in the evening of Friday March 28,2025 started to have worshippers trooping at the venue around 4p.m.

The programme which was organised by professor Yusuf John Suberu featured a line of powerful men of God and gospel singers which included Bishop Steve Balogun(JP); Apostle Jide Ogunsakin; Rt.Rev.Dr.E.I Onsachi, Bishop, Anglican communion, diocese of Okene;Prophet(Dr.)Ajinomoh Anda Isaac;Rev. Isaac Ogunmola; Pastor Isaiah Alabi, General overseer of the Gospel Assembly Intercontinental; Pastor Solomon Enya, Kogi central coordinator of Peace House;Evangelist Job Apana,Kogi central CAN coordinator; Evangelist Eunice Omonayi;Pastor P-Daniel; Pastor Emerald Johnson; Minister Samuel Temitope; Evangelist Ify Obi and many others.

Another great personality who was in attendance was Dr.James Anaza Duro Joseph,provost of Kogi state college of nursing science, Obangede who represented the secretary-general of Kogi State,Dr. Folashade Arike Ayoade.As a special prayer request made by the secretary-general,he(Dr.James) specifically called on professor Yusuf John Suberu to pray for the peace and progress of the state and as well the government officials.

The speakers preached messages emphasizing the importance of seeking God’s mercy in these turbulent times.Prayers for deliverance ,healing and salvation were also rendered.The night was marked by numerous deliverance ,healings and miracles.There was never a period of dull moment as different sessions of prayers,deeper worships and praises were had.

The final preaching of the Kogi night of mercy and worship was delivered by the convener of the programme,Professor Yusuf John Suberu.He preached on the topic “*Principles of igniting the fire”*. To further aid the congregational understanding,he proceeded to highlight four principles required to ignite the fire :
(1). Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness
(2). Render faithful service to God
(3). Become a radical giver
(4). Pray without ceasing.
Professor Yusuf also led the people in a powerful session of prayers.In this session of prayers, God’s power and release was made manifest, with people receiving deliverance, healings and fresh anointing.

Kogi night of mercy and worship was a divine encounter,a moment of spiritual connection and transformation.As the worshippers departed,they carried with them a renewed sense of hope and faith, knowing God’s mercy is always
available to those who seek it.

The programme also features distribution of food items to 1000 participants and a scholarship award of two hundred thousand naira (#200,000.00) to miss Ann Ochenika.Professor Yusuf assured that he will execute more scholarship awards through the Kogi central CAN and PFM.He,therefore, charged youths to be in their best behaviour so as to aid qualification for such.

The programme has been described by many to be of one of its kind in Ebira-land.It was proclaimed that never a time was a programme like this held in the land.It had in attendance over one thousand five hundred people(excluding the underaged).The hall with the gallery was totally full and had an overflow.

*To God alone be praised*

Media Team,
Kogi night of mercy and worship.