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Tag: Mike Okonkwo

  • From 4th to first: Davina Phillips shines at 2025 Mike Okonkwo essay competition

    From 4th to first: Davina Phillips shines at 2025 Mike Okonkwo essay competition

    Fifteen-year-old Davina Phillips of Bloombreeds School, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has emerged overall champion of the 2025 Mike Okonkwo Annual Essay Competition for Secondary School Students in Nigeria, in a remarkable leap from fourth place in the first round to clinching the coveted first position.

    Davina, who scored 70% in the first round and 80% in the second, secured a final tally of 75% to edge out 16-year-old runner-up Aniki Emmanuella Onizi of Babcock High School, Ilishan Remo, Ogun State, who finished with 68%, and third-place winner Maryam Opeyemi Ilyas, 15, of Isawo Comprehensive High School, Wisdom Island, Ikorodu, Lagos, who scored 66% overall.

    Chief Examiner, Prof. Akachi Ezeigbo, explained that after evaluating all submissions, the five best essays were shortlisted for a second physical round on a new topic to test the students’ abilities under a more controlled environment. “The 2025 competition was impressive in the sense that the students demonstrated a clear understanding of adult-themed issues,” she noted.

    However, she observed a recurring challenge — some participants displayed evidence of collaboration with peers or unoriginal borrowing from internet sources, textbooks, and even Artificial Intelligence tools. “Teachers must let them know how to use material creatively and intelligently for verification and validation,” she advised.

    For their triumphs, Davina will receive a cheque for N1 million and a laptop, while her school gets a set of computers. Aniki will take home N500,000, a laptop, and the same reward for her school, while Maryam will earn N400,000, a laptop, and a school computer set. Other finalists will each pocket N50,000 as a consolation prize.

    The winners and their schools will be formally honoured at the Mike Okonkwo Annual Lecture Series at the Civic Center, Victoria Island, Lagos, on Thursday, September 4, 2025.

    Launched in 2004 to mark the birthday of the Presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), Dr. Mike Okonkwo (MFR), the competition was designed to contribute meaningfully to the Nigerian educational sector. Over nineteen years, it has fostered a culture of research, reading, and constructive writing among students, while also boosting ICT development in both government and private schools.

    Dr. Okonkwo, the chief sponsor and visionary behind the initiative, remains steadfast in his belief that Nigerian youths can compete with their peers globally. His commitment, fuelled by faith and a passion for holistic human development, has made the Mike Okonkwo National Essay Competition a lasting platform for nurturing academic excellence and shaping the next generation of thought leaders.

  • Bishop Mike Okonkwo announces free cataract surgery in Lagos

    Bishop Mike Okonkwo announces free cataract surgery in Lagos

    Dr Mike Okonkwo, Presiding Bishop of the The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM) has announced free cataract surgery for people with clouding of the eye’s natural lens which can significantly impair vision.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Bishop Okonkwo announced the free cataract surgery as part of the activities lined up to celebrate his 80th birthday.

    According to a statement released by Reverend Chinedu Nkere, Chairman of the Bishop Okonkwo @80 Committee, those interested in the cataract surgery would be screened and thereafter operated upon at the Eye Foundation Ikorodu, Lagos State.

    “To be screened, potential beneficiaries will be expected to pick up the registration form at TREM International headquarters, Obanikoro, Lagos and in all TREM branches in Lagos or fill the form online at bit.ly/bmo500eyes,” the statement reads.

    Basically, cataract surgery is crucial for restoring clear vision and improving quality of life for individuals affected by cataract.

    According to ophthalmologists,it is the only and most trusted treatment for cataract, which causes clouding of eye lenses, leading to blurry or hazy vision.

    Therefore, the fulcrum of cataract surgeries revolves around restoring clear vision, improving activities of daily living, reducing falls and accidents, enhancing independence, improving quality of life, reducing glare halos, improving colors’ perceptions and monitoring; treatments of other eye care and conditions generally.

    According to statistics, cataract is a leading cause of blindness globally and it disproportionately affects low-income individuals who may lack the financial means to seek treatment.

    Providing free eye cataract surgeries, therefore, helps to address the significant public health issue.

    Reverend Nkere said that by offering these surgeries at no cost, Bishop Okonkwo seeks not only to restore vision and enhance the quality of life for at least 500 individuals, but also take a proactive step towards reducing the burden of preventable blindness.

    “This compassionate approach aligns with Bishop Mike Okonkwo’s commitment to contribute towards community well-being and human development,” Nkere stated.

    Other major activities lined up to celebrate the 80th birthday of Dr Okonkwo (MFR) include the 2025 Mike Okonkwo annual lecture series, with the theme “The Nigeria of Our Dream: Today’s Reality and a Responsible Pathfinder.”

    TNG reports this year’s lecture will be delivered by Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, Nigeria’s former Vice-President, on September 4th, 2025. Major-General Ike Nwachukwu, will be Chairman of the lecture. The Venue of the lecture is the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.

    Over the years, distinguished Nigerians have chaired the Mike Okonkwo lecture, which has also been graced by highly respected scholars.

    Among the Nigerians who have chaired the lectures are Prof. Pat Utomi in 2023, Commodore Ebitu Ukiwe in 2022, Chief Folake Sholanke SAN in 2019, Chief John Nnia Nwodo in 2018, Dr. Sam Ohuabunwa in 2017, Chief Arthur Mbanefo in 2016, Prof. George Obiozo in 2015 and 2014.

    Others include Major General Ike Nwachukwu in 2013, Dr. Philip Asiedu in 2012, Dr. Christopher Kolade in 2011, Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu in 2010, Apostle H. Alile in 2009, Chief GOK Ajayi SAN in 2008, General Yakubu Gowon in 2007, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu in 2006, Commodore Ebitu Ukiwe in 2005, Prof. Bolanle Awe in 2004, Dr. Dora Akunyili in 2003, Mr. Segun Dawodu in 2002, Dr. Orji Uzo Kalu in 2001, while Primate Sunday Mbang was in 2000.

    Speakers that have graced the occasion as Guest lecturers include Prof. Mike Ozekhome SAN, Prof. Anya O. Anya (twice), Mr. Femi Falana SAN (twice), Dr. Nike Akande, Mr. Frank Nweke Jnr, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola SAN, Prof. Akin Oyebode SAN, Dr. Kalu Idika Kalu, Chief Lugard Aminiwu, Major General Ishola Williams, Prof. Ilochi Okafor, Prof. Alaba Ogunsanwo, Prof. Jadesola Akande, Prof. Tam David West, Prof. Jegede Olugbemiro, Prof. Itse Sagay, Monsignor Obiora Francis Ike.

    Meanwhile, the opening ceremony for the Mike Okonkwo Football Tournament will kick off at the Nigerian Institute of Sports (NIS) National Stadium Complex, Surulere, Lagos from 14th June 2025.

    This year’s championship will be competed for by 36 male teams and a total of 8 female teams, making a total of 44 grassroots football clubs.

    The finals of the competition have been scheduled for Saturday, 30th August at the Yaba College of Technology Sports complex in Lagos.

    TNG reports that the Mike Okonkwo Football Competition for 2025 is the season 20 and a landmark edition of the tournament.

    Dr. Mike Okonkwo (MFR) is the Presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM); a versatile man of God with over 50 years of dedicated service unto the Lord.

    He passionately preaches Power in the Word to a multicultural and diverse audience with over 200 globally. He is an Apostle to this generation, whose life has impacted millions around the world.

    A father to many, and a pastor of many pastors across the globe, Dr Mike Okonkwo is also a dynamic conference speaker, crusade evangelist, author, television and radio host; a strong and respected voice in Nigeria and globally, and an advocate of balanced Christianity.

    Dr. Mike Okonkwo graduated from the Morris Cerrullo School of Ministry and the Covington Theological Seminary in USA, and holds several doctorate degrees and honorary awards.

    He is the Convener of the Communion of Covenant Ministers International (CCMI) a gathering of Pastors designed for Fellowship, Spiritual Covering, Mentoring, Strengthening, and Networking, through conferences, seminars and other interactive sessions.

    He is a co-host of the National Ministers Conference (NMC). He is a Trustee and also a member of the National Advisory Council (NAC) of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN).

    He is the Patron and Founder of the Empowerment for the Less Privileged (ELP) Foundation, a non-governmental organisation committed to alleviating the plight of the less-privileged in the society through donations to hospitals, establishment of free vocational training centres, running free preparatory schools for students in the secondary schools, and facilitating regular public enlightenment campaigns on health issues amongst others. He also pioneers a scholarship fund for talented students.

    With a pastoral staff strength of over 300 men and women, the ministry has several arms all geared at reaching the “unreached” wherever they can be found. To this end, the ministry has a Prisons Outreach, which ministers to inmates in various prisons and remand homes; Word Ambassadors- this group of people organise crusades in various towns and villages; and the ‘’We Care’’ Ministry, which ministers to the less privileged through relief items, food stuffs, free basic medical care, soft short-term loans and encouraging petty trading in order to make each individual self-sustained.

    Others include EV Nation, the official Music arm of the church responsible for engaging world class music that has and still impacting lives globally; Dunamis Publications, which co-ordinates all literature generated from the ministry, Maranatha Power Play House, which ministers the word through various anointed drama presentations, The Singles Fellowship, set up to encourage the singles on how to be fulfilled and make the most of their single-hood while preparing them for the responsibilities of the married life, and The Intercessory Unit, the arm of the church that is dedicated to prayer not only for the ministry and programs of the ministry, but for the Body of Christ as a whole, Nigeria as a nation and the world at large.

    Still in a bid to positively affect the less privileged, Bishop Mike Okonkwo in partnership with his wife under the aegis of the Women of Global Impact, sponsors free cervical screening for women in rural areas and annual donation of food and clothing to the less privileged women with particular reference to widows in the villages. A peace- loving man, he risked his life to ensure the reconciliation of warring parties during the Ogbunike communal clash which invariably led to the sustained peace the town enjoys today.

    Bishop Mike Okonkwo is married to Bishop Peace Okonkwo and they are blessed with a daughter, Rev Uche Kachi-Asugha, also many spiritual sons and daughters across the globe.

  • Entries open for landmark edition of Bishop Mike Okonkwo national essay competition

    Entries open for landmark edition of Bishop Mike Okonkwo national essay competition

    Organisers of Bishop Mike Okonkwo national essay competition for secondary school students in Nigeria have opened applications for the 2025 edition of the competition.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports entries for the landmark edition of the Bishop Mike Okonkwo national essay competition opened on Monday, March 17, 2025, and will run through Friday, June 20, 2025.

    Rev. Anthony Samuel, who made this known in a statement on behalf of the Corporate Affairs Department on Monday, disclosed that the theme for this year’s competition is: “The Nigeria of Our Dreams: Today’s Reality and a Responsible Pathfinder”.

    “To participate in the 20th Mike Okonkwo National Essay Competition, students must submit an essay (maximum 1,200 words) along with the following details: full name, address, telephone number, school name, class, and the principal’s telephone number,” the statement reads.

    TNG reports the 2025 edition of the Bishop Mike Okonkwo national essay competition is a landmark edition of the national essay competition to mark the 80th birth anniversary of Bishop Mike Okonkwo, the Presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM).

    As a result, the winners’ prices have been increased, and according to Rev. Samuel, the first prize winner will receive a cash prize of N1,000,000, a laptop, and a plaque.

    “The winning student’s school will also receive a desktop computer and a trophy. The first runner-up will receive N600,000, a laptop, and a plaque, while their school will be awarded a desktop computer.

    “The second runner-up will be awarded N400,000, a laptop, and a plaque, with their school also receiving a desktop computer,” he stated.

    According to Rev. Anthony, all essays should be submitted in Word document format via email to essay@trem.org.

    Recall that the Bishop Mike Okonkwo national essay competition was instituted in 2004 as part of TREM’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative, aimed at fostering critical thinking and analytical skills in students to prepare them for success.

    Over the years, the Bishop Mike Okonkwo national essay competition has contributed to raising the standard of education in Nigeria.

    In 2024, the topic of the competition was “Nigeria’s pathways: Diagnosis and prescriptions”, while in 2023, the topic was “Nigerianisation of Nigerians: A look inward” and 2022, “Nigeria, a country at war against itself: The problems, the solutions and the way forward”.

    “This year’s competition is a special edition. The first prize winner will receive a cash prize of N1,000,000, a laptop, and a plaque.

    “Additionally, this event is part of the activities celebrating the birthday of the Patron, Dr. Mike Okonkwo, which is especially significant this year as he turns 80,” Rev. Samuel revealed.

    TNG reports Dr. Okonkwo as the Presiding Bishop of TREM, also known as Power in the Word, with over 200 branches in Nigeria and around the world, is an Apostle to this generation, having impacted millions globally through his ministry.

    A father figure to many and a pastor to pastors, Okonkwo is a dynamic conference speaker, crusade evangelist, national spokesman for Nigeria, and advocate of balanced Christianity.

    In his commitment to nation-building, Dr. Okonkwo established the Mike Okonkwo Annual Lecture in 2000. The lecture addresses key challenges facing the nation and proposes meaningful solutions.

    Over time, the lecture has become a key platform for influencing government policy, bringing together distinguished individuals to discuss pressing national issues.

    The Mike Okonkwo national essay competition was birthed from this platform, and both events culminate on the same day, with the essay topic aligning with the theme of the annual lecture.

    In 2012, Dr. Okonkwo was honored with the National Honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (MFR).

    Bishop Mike Okonkwo is married to Bishop Peace Okonkwo, and they are blessed with a daughter and son-in-law.

  • Japa: Bishop Okonkwo advises those planning to run away from Nigeria

    Japa: Bishop Okonkwo advises those planning to run away from Nigeria

    Dr Mike Okonkwo, Presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM) has advised those planning to run away from Nigeria to think twice and do so with caution while stressing that it is not always rosy at the other side.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Bishop Okonkwo gave the advice while speaking to members of his congregation on Sunday at TREM’s international headquarters at Anthony-Oke, Gbagada Expressway, Lagos State, Nigeria.

    The revered cleric noted that some Nigerians who left the country seeking greener pastures regretted their action as they were disappointed and scammed. Okonkwo advised those seeking to run away from the country and settle abroad to remain and only travel if God asked them to travel.

    “God already knew that in this period in our nation, you are going to be around here and things will be happening the way they are happening. But we have the covenant of exemption. But you are not leveraging them. You are just behaving like every other person.

    “No! You are different. You are totally different. Your mouth will testify. Grace has already deployed the answer. Just receive it. Faith is telling you that you are almost there. If anyone will have a testimony as a result of this period, you are the one.

    “I do not want to talk ‘japa’ because travelling abroad I see a lot of people who ‘japad’ who are suffering and I do not want any of you to go there and suffer unless God says you should ‘japa’.

    “I see a lot of them suffering. They are regretting that they left. They have sold all their goods, cars, houses and everything and left for abroad. Only for them to get them and see that it is not what they thought.

    “Some of them got there and found that they had been scammed. Because they were told: ‘Come, there is a job there for you. Everything is settled.’ But when they got there, they found out that they had been scammed.

    “So you who are in Nigeria now will have to be settling them. I told you that I had an issue with this japa when it started. I told you: ‘Don’t throw away your passport and say ‘I am going abroad.’ Listen, overseas, it is still somebody’s country. Whether you like it or not you are still a stranger there and they are becoming more and more racist.

    “So whatever your hands find to do, do it with all your heart. It is not doing it with one leg and saying ‘if I see an opportunity, I will japa.’ No! Do whatever you can while you are here and do it with all your heart with the expectation that everything will turn around for you.”

    TNG reports Bishop Okonkwo gave the advice with the confidence that Nigeria would become better and a sought-after country. The bishop said it is imperative for Nigerians to build their country, adding that they should be committed to national development and the welfare of one another.

    He also urged them to be diligent and ensure excellence in their professions, undertakings and occupations. He stated that God will soon intervene and restore the country to a cynosure before the comity of nations, stressing that Nigeria will not remain in this current excruciating hardship for a very long time.

    Okonkwo said: “One thing I know is that this country will not remain like this. I can tell you that prophecy for free. Breaking news! You see this country, it will not remain like this. The devil is wasting time. You understand that on a football field, it is the person with the ball that every opponent goes after.

    “Why do you think the devil is attacking this nation the way it is? We hold the ace. Nigeria holds the ace for the changing of the world. I do not know why God loves us in Nigeria. I do not know. There is virtually everything that we have.

    “Our weather is good. If some of the disasters happening abroad happen in Nigeria, we all will be dead because we do not even have the facilities. But God is gracious to us. So do not give up on Nigeria.

    “I understand our frustration and I am not here telling you that I am a super person and I do not get frustrated at times. I do! I do but when I remember Jesus, I have hope. Do not give up. All is well! Your mill barrel will not run dry. God will see all of you through this challenging period. You will go through it and come out better, bigger and stronger.

    “The God we serve is the God of divine happenings. Expect divine happenings in your life, divinely orchestrated. When you begin to look at it from a human perspective, you will not see how. But somehow, you are coming out.

    “That same God who made the fish deliver Jonah from the sea and got him on the seashore will deliver you from the present challenges. Jonah did not know how to swim. He was dumped in the middle of the sea”.

  • Bishop Okonkwo doles out prizes to essay competition winners

    Bishop Okonkwo doles out prizes to essay competition winners

    Bishop Mike Okonkwo, the Presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM) has doled out prizes, including cash, plaque and trophy, to winners of the 2024 edition of the Bishop Mike Okonkwo National Essay competition for Nigerian secondary schools. The winners were honoured along with their schools.

    Recall that Olaoye Flourish, a student of Christ the King International School, Gbagada, Lagos State, in August emerged the overall winner of the 19th Edition of the Bishop Mike Okonkwo National Essay Competition.

    While Olaoye scored 73% in the competition, Nora Femi-Lawal of Chrisland High School, Lekki, finished second with an average score of 64.5% while Olayimika Esther Durotimi took the third spot with an average score of 61%.

    The overall winner received a cheque for N500,000, a trophy, and a plaque, while her school was awarded a set of computers. While the second prize winner received a cheque for N250,000 and a plaque, her school also received a set of computers.

    The third place winner was awarded a cheque for N150,000, a plaque, and a computer set for her school. The remaining finalists each received a consolation prize of N20,000.

    The winners, alongside their schools, were honoured and rewarded at the Zenith Bank Shell Hall, Muson Centre, Onikan in Lagos State last Thursday during the 23rd Bishop Mike Okonkwo Annual Lecture Series, with the theme “Nigeria’s Pathways: Diagnosis and Prescriptions”. The lecture also marked the 79th birthday of Bishop Mike Okonkwo, the Presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM).

    In the first round of the competition, the title of the essay the students wrote was “Nigeria’s Pathways: Diagnosis and Prescriptions” while in the 2nd round, it was on “Protest Against Misgovernance: The Gains and Pain”.

    The Chief Examiner of the essay competition, Prof. Akachi Ezeigbo, disclosed that the committee setup for the competition received a total of 551 essays from secondary school students across the country.

    According to her, the committee used quality control instruments such as Goggle search machine, Turnitin plagiarism detector and their own eagle eyes to scrutinize each essay for plagiarism, copyright infringements, unhedged A1 assistance and other integrity infractions.

    Said she: “The feedback we got enabled us to weed out 341 essays that showed direct evidence of infractions. Apart from the eight participants invited to the second round and validation round of the competition, others fell below our quality threshold of 50 percent.”

    Ezeigbo explained that the three winners thought about the issues involved in the topics within the mental orbit of their age. She said they expressed their thoughts in the way that exceptional students of their age would do.

    “Their mastery of English language structures marks them out as meticulous students with potential. We must encourage them, as Bishop Mike Okonkwo is doing, to sharpen there thinking and critical skills, by acknowledging their contributions and rewarding their efforts, ” she added.

    Prof. Ezeigbo commended Bishop Okonkwo for giving the committee the opportunity to be part of the epochal process of talent development of young people in the country.

  • Bishop Okonkwo to Tinubu: You can’t tell Nigerians things are hard, yet you are enjoying luxury

    Bishop Okonkwo to Tinubu: You can’t tell Nigerians things are hard, yet you are enjoying luxury

    Presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), Dr Mike Okonkwo has called on President Bola Tinubu to cut down on the excesses in his government.

    Dr Okonkwo also called on President Tinubu to have empathy with the masses, while stressing that the recent hike in the pump price of petrol from about N600 per litre to N855 and above is challenging for Nigerians.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Bishop Okonkwo made the call on Thursday in Lagos State at the 23rd edition of the Mike Okonkwo’s Annual lecture, which is part of events to celebrate his 79th birthday anniversary.

    Prizes were presented to the winners who emerged in the  2024 Bishop Mike Okonkwo Annual Essay Competition for Nigerian Secondary Schools at the event.

    Okonkwo specifically urged members of the National Assembly, the 36 State Governors in Nigeria, as well as other public officials at all tiers of government to have empathy for Nigerians, especially the masses.

    He noted that many Nigerians are having challenging times having been plunged into excruciating poverty and penury, adding that the government must initiate policies and programmes to ameliorate the sufferings of the people.

    He stated that the Tinubu administration inherited a bad economy but called for cutting down the cost of governance by all tiers of government.

    The revered cleric warned that it would be difficult to convince people to understand the bad national economy when public officials are being profligate and living luxurious lifestyles.

    “The hike in pump price is a challenging period because it appears everything is going higher and higher. As I often say, the present administration, unfortunately, inherited a terrible thing on ground and people should not expect overnight change. It is not going to change overnight.

    “What they inherited, if the truth is to be told, is a very poor economy. The economy was already on the floor before they took off.

    “But the challenge Nigerians are facing is that the government should be seen to have empathy with the masses through the way, they have to cut down on their excesses. You cannot be telling Nigerians, ‘O things are hard’ and fuel prices are increasing, electricity cost is increasing, everything is increasing, and then you are enjoying luxury. So it will be difficult to reconcile it. That is the problem we are facing!

    “My advice is that the government should be seen to cut down the cost of governance so that Nigerians can agree with them. Otherwise, it will be challenging to agree with whatever they are saying because whatever they are saying is contrary to their own lifestyle.”

    He urged the federal government to convince the organised labour not to embark on strike again, through good governance, delivery of dividends of democracy and prudency in management of public resources.

    He also admonished Nigerians to continue to believe in God for a better Nigeria, adding that they must be godly and avoid untoward behaviours.

    “On labour, that is what I am saying, that it is a complex situation. If the government is saying to labour, you should not go on strike, then show them, let there be a sign that you are also willing to cut down (cost of governance).

    “You are not willing to cut down the cost of governance and you are telling labour to accept the situation the way it is. It will be difficult. It will be tough for anyone to accept that,” Okonkwo said.

    Meanwhile, former Attorney-General of the Federation and former Minister of Justice, Kanu Godwin Agabi (SAN), who spoke at the event, warned that efforts at a complete overhaul of Nigeria’s Constitution can only lead to disaster.

    Delivering the lecture titled: Nigeria’s Pathways: Diagnosis and the Prescriptions,’ Agabi also said that people should be mindful that it was not easy to agree on the Constitution even as it is.

    He added that even as it is, the Constitution meets the needs of the nation if its interpretation is approached with honesty and imagination.

    Agabi said: “We must be reconciled to the fact that there is in existence a binding Constitution. To dismiss the Constitution as a product of the military is unrealistic. Lack of respect for the Constitution has played a significant role in our downfall. Those who gave us the Constitution were under no illusion that it was a perfect document.

    “The constitution is an evolving document. It is prepared for all generations. And so every generation will have the opportunity to amend it to suit its own needs. Let us do what we can now and not worry too much about the future. At the same time, we must acknowledge that some responsibility for the defects in our polity lies in the constitution itself.

    “Our Constitution envisages a strong national government. Unless the national government is strong, the nation will disintegrate. In all its provisions, the Constitution looks to an indivisible and indestructible nation.

    “We may restructure or rearrange the nation as we please but its integrity as such must be protected and preserved. A bad Constitution, assuming that our constitution is bad, is better than none at all.”

    In an interview with journalists, the Senior Advocate of Nigeria, also urged President Tinubu to close the nation’s borders and encourage indigenous production of goods and services.

    He said: “We should unite, we should be self-reliant, we should be transparent, we should love one another. If we do that, we are good people. Firstly, we must unite, and remove all these boundaries and divisions.

    “We are having fuel scarcity and hardship today in the country because we are running a government of patronage. People are waiting to be patronized and because of that patronage, we do not pay too much attention to elections.

    “We must pay attention to elections: House of Assembly, Senate, Councillors, everything. We should stop the government of patronage, just patronizing people!

    “I do not know what policies and programmes President Bola Tinubu has in place because there is a price to be paid for growth. Maybe we are paying that price. The price will be paid. For instance, if we say shut the borders, stop importing things, and all others. Look at some of the cars being driven in the country, look at how big and fat they are, for a nation that is producing nothing.

    “If we shut the borders, all this type of thing will not come in. The first thing this nation must do in order for Nigerians to use their hands is to stop the importation of things.

    “If I were Mr. President, I would shut the borders. If you shut all the borders, you must immediately start producing. If you shoot the borders and you are not importing rice, you have to produce rice. That is what we must do. The first thing the nation should do is to shut the borders, stop imports.”

    Chairman of the occasion, Mr. Atedo Peterside, in an interview with journalists called on the federal government to ensure that there is a proper and good arrangement for its cash transfer for the vulnerable.

    Peterside, who is the founder of Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc, stated that there must be verifiable data for the government’s social safety net programme.

    He said: “The people that I am particularly worried about in this country are the poorest of the poor and we do not even have any proper arrangement for identifying them and doing cash transfers to them. Instead, what happens is that some authorities, or some ministries or some agencies collect money on their behalf and dispense it to whoever they want and whoever they like. It is not even transparent!

    “So it is important to get people to buy into the reform of the economy where you have no proper arrangements to provide some minimal safety net for the poorest of the poor.

    “I pray that we all see the kind of change that the guest speaker was referring to. That is the Nigeria of our dreams. It is not the one based on corruption, theft and other vices.”

    The finance guru called for transparent elections, adding that people must eschew bad conduct.

    He said: “You cannot use bad behaviour to correct bad behaviour. Then you are as bad as the person you are correcting.

    “If in an election you are my opponent and you are changing figures, hiring thugs and beating up voters, if I do the same to beat you, then what have I achieved? We are back to square one.

    “Perhaps also the change that will come is only deserved when the majority of Nigerians decide that there has to be some sort of overall cleansing and people get into government not for what they can get, not to favour themselves and the narrow clique but to really commit themselves to doing the best for the generality of Nigerians.”

  • 19-year-old Flourish Olaoye beats two others to emerge winner of 2024 edition of Mike Okonkwo national essay competition

    19-year-old Flourish Olaoye beats two others to emerge winner of 2024 edition of Mike Okonkwo national essay competition

    Olaoye Flourish, a student of Christ the King International School, Gbagada, Lagos State, has won the 19th Edition of the Bishop Mike Okonkwo National Essay Competition for Nigerian secondary schools.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Olaoye scored 73% in the competition, which was held at The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM) International Headquarters, Gbagada, Lagos.

    Nora Femi-Lawal of Chrisland High School, Lekki, finished with an average score of 64.5% while Olayimika Esther Durotimi took the third spot with an average score of 61%.

    Speaking, Professer Akachi Adimora-Ezeigbo, the Chief Examiner noted: “The three winners tackled the topics with a level of thoughtfulness appropriate for their age. They conveyed their ideas in a manner befitting exceptional students of their age and grade.

    “Their command of the English language structures highlights their meticulous nature and significant potential. We congratulate them, as well as the other finalists, and wish them great success in their future endeavours”.

    She said that AI tools such as ChatGPT, Google Assistant and Gemini, alongside online services, have become a growing influence that produces and sells essays to students,

    “As we can no longer avoid these technologies,” she noted, “we must adapt to them and remain vigilant in finding ways to mitigate their negative impact on knowledge production.”

    Professor Adimora-Ezeigbo further emphasised, “While we reflect on the direction scientific advancements are leading us, the seven students invited to the finals offer a glimmer of hope.

    “They have engaged with issues, using both their hearts and minds, employing original thought within the framework of knowledge production methodologies. These students are the ones who, through their creativity, generate the content that technology often feeds upon.

    “We must, therefore, encourage them—as Bishop Okonkwo is doing—by sharpening their critical thinking skills, recognising their contributions, and rewarding their efforts.”

    The competition winner will receive a cheque for N500,000, a trophy, and a plaque, while her school will be awarded a set of computers. For the second prize winner, a cheque for N250,000 and a plaque, with her school also receiving a set of computers.

    The third place winner will be awarded a cheque for N150,000, a plaque, and a computer set for her school. The remaining finalists will each receive a consolation prize of N20,000.

    The winners, alongside their schools, will be honoured and rewarded at the Zenith Bank Shell Hall, Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos, on Thursday, September 5, 2024, in the 23rd Bishop Mike Okonkwo Annual Lecture Series, with the theme “Nigeria’s Pathways: Diagnosis and Prescriptions”.

    Highly esteemed Nigerian lawyer and politician Barrister Kanu Agabi, who has served as a Senator and twice as Attorney General and Minister of Justice of the Federation, will deliver an inspiring lecture.

    Atedo Peterside, the President and Founder of ANAP Foundation, a non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting good governance in Nigeria will be chair the event.

    Launched in 2004, the Mike Okonkwo National Essay Competition was created as part of the celebrations for the birthday of the Presiding Bishop of TREM, Dr. Mike Okonkwo (MFR).

    The competition, which is now beyond celebration, was created to make a meaningful contribution to the development of the Nigerian educational sector.

    Dr. Mike Okonkwo has remained committed to this cause for nineteen years, using his God-given talents, strength, and resources to bless the younger generation in their pursuit of academic excellence.

    He does this by encouraging students to develop strong reading and writing habits. Dr. Okonkwo, a man of faith who believes in the holistic development of humanity, has made significant strides in achieving his vision by institutionalising the Mike Okonkwo National Essay Competition.

    The competition has enkindled a passion for reading and writing, and alsoheightened interest in research, extensive reading, and constructive writing among participating students.

    Students in the competition have access to the platform to express their views on crucial issues impacting the socio-economic development of our nation.

    Aside this, the competition plays an vital role in advancing ICT development in secondary schools, particularly within government-owned institutions. Winners from both government and private schools have been consistently rewarded with both in-kind and cash gifts.

    Dr. Mike Okonkwo, the Chief Sponsor and visionary behind the programme, remains confident that Nigerian youths can compete on par with their peers in developed nations.

  • JUST IN: Entries open for Bishop Mike Okonkwo 2024 national essay competition

    JUST IN: Entries open for Bishop Mike Okonkwo 2024 national essay competition

    Entries for the 2024 edition of the Mike Okonkwo National Essay Competition for all secondary school students in Nigeria are now open from April 8, to June 15, 2024.

    This is contained in a statement released on Tuesday by Rev. (Mrs.) Oluwayomi Uteh, Corporate Services Director.

    According to the statement, the topic for this year’s competition, being the 19th edition, is “Nigeria’s Pathways: Diagnosis and The Prescriptions”.

    “For participation in the 19th Mike Okonkwo National Essay Competition for secondary school students, the entry requirements include an essay of a maximum of 2000 words, a Passport Photograph of the Student, Full Name, Address, Contact Telephone Number, Class, School and Name and Telephone contact of the principal.

    “All Essay should be submitted in Word document format through email to essay@trem.org

    “For this year, the star winner goes home with Five Hundred Thousand Naira (N500,000.00) cash price, a trophy, and a plaque while the school gets a desktop computer. The first runner-up gets a cash prize of N250,000.00 with a plaque, while the school gets a desktop computer.

    “The second runner-up gets an N100,000.00 cash prize and a plaque, while the school gets a desktop computer,” the statement reads.

    The competition is one of Dr. Mike Okonkwo’s Corporate Social Responsibility activities aimed at raising the standard in the educational sector in the country and at the same time sensitising the students by making them analytically minded so as to excel in their world by developing their ability to think through issues.

    Also, the competition is lined up as part of the activities to mark the 79th Birthday of Dr. Mike Okonkwo, the Presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM).

    Over the years, the competition has been very successful in reshaping the students’ thought patterns and helping them develop problem-solving skills.

    The Mike Okonkwo National Essay Competition spans over a decade of developing and rewarding the writing skills of Nigerian youths towards national development.

    The prizes for this year’s competition will be presented to the winners at the 23rd Mike Okonkwo Annual Lecture, which has been scheduled for Thursday, September 5th, 2024, at the Muson Centre (Shell Hall) by 10.00 a.m.

    Dr. Mike Okonkwo is the Presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), a.k.a. Power in the Word, with over 200 branches in Nigeria and across the globe. He is an Apostle to this generation whose life has impacted millions around the world.

    A father to many and a pastor to pastors across the globe, Dr Mike Okonkwo is also a dynamic conference speaker, crusade evangelist, a national spokesman for Nigeria, and an advocate of balanced Christianity.

    As the host of ‘Power in the Word,’ a life-transforming television broadcast series, Dr. Okonkwo’s Holy Spirit-inspired insight into the Word of God is remarkably outstanding and empowers people in Nigeria and across the globe.

    He also hosts ‘Power for the Wise, ‘ a daily devotional program on the radio that transforms lives daily.

    He is also an author whose books have been life-transforming tools in the hands of those who have been privileged to come in contact with them.

    Dr. Mike Okonkwo holds several doctorate degrees and honorary awards. He is the Convener of the Communion of Covenant Ministers International (CCMI), a gathering of Pastors designed for Fellowship, Spiritual Covering, Mentoring, Strengthening, and Networking, through conferences, seminars and other interactive sessions.

    He is a member of the National Advisory Council (NAC) of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria.

    He is a man driven by the passion to show the love of God to humanity in every way the Lord enables him.

    This passion gave birth to the Empowerment for the Less Privileged Foundation, a non-governmental organisation committed to alleviating the plight of the less privileged in society through donations to hospitals, the establishment of free vocational training centers, running free preparatory schools for students in secondary schools, and facilitating regular public enlightenment campaigns on health issues amongst others.

    He also pioneers a scholarship fund for talented students. His strong faith and confidence in women and the potential in women gave him a place on the board of Trustees of the Women of Global Impact (WGI) a non-governmental organization putting smiles on the faces of women by providing Shelter to the homeless and also organizing free medical fair for both men and women across the nation amongst other things.

    To contribute his quota to national development, he started the Mike Okonkwo Annual Lecture in 2000.

    The lecture has grown to become a major contributor to government policies as it brings together seasoned men and women to discuss burning national issues.

    Also, to encourage the writing skills of secondary school children and help them become solution providers to the nation, the Mike Okonkwo Essay Competition was born. Today, the topic for the essay is also the topic for the annual lecture.

    In 2012, the Federal Government honoured him with the National Honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (MFR).

    Bishop Mike Okonkwo is married to Bishop Peace Okonkwo, and they are blessed with a daughter, Uche.

  • TREM set to hold Mother of All Conferences tagged Jesus

    TREM set to hold Mother of All Conferences tagged Jesus

    Every November, in the world of the Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), thousands gather for one week at the TREM headquarters in Lagos State, Nigeria for the Kingdom Life World Conference (KLWC).

    Over the years, KLWC has hosted thousands of worshippers and it has also had various themes. Themes of the Conference since it started are Walking In Dominion (1990), Let His Glory Fall (1991), Fully Committed (1992), His Holy Habitation (1993), Pure Fire (1994), Power In The Word (1995), and Manifestation of the Sons (1996-1998).

    Others are The Glory Is Here (1999), Signs, Wonders  & Miracles (2000), Releasing The Captives (2001), In His Presence (2002), Our God Reigns (2003), It is Well (2004), Behold His Wonder(2005). El-Shaddai (2006), And God Said….. ( 2007 & 2008), Unshakable Kingdom (2009 & 2010), Grace Grace (2011, 2012). For the 2023 edition, the theme is Jesus.

    The Conference, which has been described as the Mother of All Conferences, has witnessed prominent Speakers from within and outside the country. Some of the Speakers over the years are the late Archbishop Benson Idahosa of the Church of God Mission, Pastor E. A. Adeboye of the Redeemed Christian Church Of God and Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor of Word of Life Bible Church.

    Others are Dr. Felix Omobude of New Covenant Ministries, Bishop Francis Wale Oke of Sword of the Spirit Ministry, Bishop Simeon Okah, Flock of Christ, among others. Also from other countries we have Bishop Charles Agyin Asare from Ghana, Rev. Tudor Bismark from Zimbabwe, Pastor Tim Storrey, Dr. Mensa Otabil from Ghana Dr. Richard Ford, Dr. Greg & Cyndi Romine, Dr. Jerry Wolcson all from the United States of America.

    During the conference, a special night is set aside called Zamar Night where Christian gospel artists thrill attendees drawn from all over the globe. Another special highlight of the KLWC is the International Women’s Prayer Conference (IWPC), usually hosted by Bishop Peace Okonkwo. The same would be repeated this year.

    Speaking in the 2023 edition of the KLWC, Reverend Chinedu Nkere, Chairman of the planning committee in an interview on Thursday revealed all was set for the TREM to hold the 2023 edition of the conference.

    According to Reverend Nkere, who is also the Zonal Pastor of TREM Lagos Zone 7, the 2023 KLWC, tagged Jesus, will be held from 19th to 26th November.

    Speaking on the theme of the conference, Nkere said he has not attended any program with the theme “Jesus” even though has attended conferences, where Jesus was talked about.

    “This year, we have a very exciting theme, like never before, Jesus. Personally, I haven’t attended any program with that theme.

    “Yes, in most Conferences, we talk about Jesus, but being the theme, I haven’t seen that before.

    “So here we have the most influential name that has ever lived, as the theme of this year’s conference; that is so powerful.

    “Incidentally, it’s the 33rd anniversary of KLWC and the theme is the man who lived for 33 years and His impact is still being felt,” Nkere said.

    On why the KLWC is said to be the Mother of All Conferences, the TREM Zonal Pastor said, “the word mother generally describes one that gives birth to, produces, or raises another.

    “So when we say the Mother of All Conferences, we simply mean that Kingdom Life World Conference has come of age and has produced or given birth to several other Conferences, locally and globally, not only in TREM, but in other ministries.

    “As you are aware, several other Pastors, Heads of Churches and Ministries submit to The Presiding Bishop. So when we come for Kingdom Life, we have opportunities to learn; and when we go back to our locations, we reproduce what we have learnt”.

    Nkere went further to say: “Another reason, I would say, for that description, is that Kingdom Life World Conference is a leading global and live-changing Conference that has been there consistently for 33 years and still counting; and it just keeps getting bigger, better and stronger, by the grace of God.

    “Let me also mention that the phrase, “Mother of All Conferences”, did not originate from me. If I am not mistaken, I think I heard it first from the Presiding Bishop many years ago, even before I became the Planning Committee Chairman and it just got stuck with me since then.

    “However we have another Conference in TREM, which I named the Father of All Conferences but that is a story for another day”.

    TNG reports the KLWC is the annual conference of TREM that brings together everyone irrespective of location to worship and celebrate the goodness of God.

    The conference which started in 1990, has always attracted anointed servants of God from around the world and is attended not only by the members of the church but prominent and proven men and women of God from various ministries in Nigeria and also from other African Nations, United States of America, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Philippines and Germany.

    “Yearly, we have delegates from various parts of the world who are not members of the Ministry, but who come to receive from God and testimonies from them have been very encouraging.

    “One major point is that the Speakers for this year’s Conference are unique and anointed. As the names of the Speakers keep unfolding, the excitement keeps increasing. In addition, some of the music ministers, particularly for Zamar Concert, will be making their first appearance. The names will be revealed later,” Nkere said.

    TNG reports the conference has recorded life-changing testimonies and landmark achievements. The conference has continued to grow on a yearly basis with participants numbering between 12,000 and 40,000 single attendance in each service.

    The KLWC planning committee Chairman in the interview expressed strong conviction that this year’s conference will be mind-blowing in terms of the quality of the Word, signs and wonders, etc.

    “You cannot call or be associated with the name of Jesus and not be transformed. I want to encourage everyone to come believing. Jesus said, “All things are possible, to them that believe,” he said.

    Nkere stressed that the merits of attending the 2023 KLWC are too numerous to mention, which he said ranges from time of fellowship and refreshing, to impartation, miracles, signs and wonders, quality music, etc.

    “The Presiding Bishop will always say, that listening to someone in the shower cannot be the same as being in the shower yourself. Personally, I am looking forward to this year’s KLWC with great excitement and expectations.

    “Truth is that KLWC 2023 has something to offer everyone; young and old, fair or dark, educated or otherwise. In fact, business people have great opportunities to expose their businesses during the Conference.

    “For the first time ever, we shall be having a “Trade Fair” on the Saturday of the Conference. This is apart from the Commercial Centre that will run throughout the Conference. The idea is for companies and business owners to showcase their products and services so that further engagements can continue, even after the Conference. That is awesome”.

    Nkere disclosed the planning committee was working hard to ensure that every participant in the Conference has an unforgettable experience, adding “The least you can do is to be part of the Conference, in any and every way you can”.

    TNG reports Bishop Mike and Bishop Peace Okonkwo are the hosts of the KLWC. The 2023 KLWC will be held at TREM headquarters in Lagos State, Nigeria.

  • Ike, Alexander win 2023 Mike Okonkwo national essay competition

    Ike, Alexander win 2023 Mike Okonkwo national essay competition

    Miss Ike Destiny from VIK International School, Akere Alagbado in Ogun State and Master Alexander Chibuzor of Archbishop Heerey Technical College, Ogidi in Anambra State have emerged winners of the 2023 Mike Okonkwo national essay competition.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Ike and Alexander emerged winners of the 2023 Mike Okonkwo national essay competition out of 795 essay entries received for the 18th edition of the Bishop Mike Okonkwo Essay Competition.

    The essay competition is organised by the founder and presiding bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM) for secondary school students in Nigeria.

    Ike and Alexander emerged winners by clinching first and second positions, respectively.

    According to the Chief examiner Prof. T. Akachi Ezeigbo, “Destiny and Alexander addressed the topic within the mental orbit of their age and demonstrated commendable passion and independent thinking in their writing.

    “We congratulate and present them as exemplars of young people determined to forge their own path through critical use of easy ways”.

    In addition, the chief examiner further disclosed: “we are constrained to present an overall winner and just one runner-up this year, against the normal practice of presenting one winner and two runners-up”.

    Prof Ezeigbo added: “A considerable chunk of the entries we received was, as usual, unsuitable for consideration. They were either lifted directly from online sources and presented as original materials or were revised and presented as such.

    “We are used to this practice among young people, and so spent considerable time tracking the essays on the internet in line with our quality control procedures”.

    For their efforts, Miss Ike Destiny will be smiling home with a cheque of N500,000, a trophy, and a plaque, while her school gets a set of computer. For Master Chibuzor Alexander who came second, he will be going home with a cheque of N250,000, a plaque and his school will get a set of computer.

    According to a statement by Rev. (Mrs.) Oluwayomi Uteh, Corporate Services Director, prices for the winners of the 18th Mike Okonkwo National Essay Competition for Secondary Schools in the country will be presented at this year’s Mike Okonkwo Annual Lecture.

    The theme for this year’s Mike Okonkwo Annual Lecture, scheduled to hold at the Zenith Shell Hall Muson Center, Onikan, Lagos, on Thursday, September 7, 2023, is “Nigerianization of Nigerians: A Look Inward”.

    TNG reports Mike Okonkwo National Essay Competition was initiated in the year 2004, as part of activities to celebrate the Birthday of the Presiding Bishop of TREM, Dr. Mike Okonkwo (MFR), and more importantly to contribute to the development of the Educational Sector.

    Dr. Mike Okonkwo has continued in this gesture for 18 years, using his God-given talent, strength, and resources to be a blessing to the younger generation in the pursuit of academic excellence by encouraging them to cultivate the habit of reading and writing effectively. This man of God, who believes in the absolute development of mankind in all facets of life, has used the institutionalization of the Mike Okonkwo National Essay Competition to achieve this dream and desire.

    The essay competition program has helped some students that participated in the program to develop more interest in research work, reading extensively, and writing constructively.

    Apart from serving as a tool to encourage reading and writing, the competition has also given the students the opportunity to bare their minds on topical issues that are significant to the social-economic development of our nation.

    The essay competition has also contributed to ICT development in secondary schools, especially in government-owned schools. Winners have emerged from both government-owned schools and private schools, and they have always been encouraged with gifts both in-kind and cash.

    The Chief Sponsor and visionary of the program, Dr. Mike Okonkwo, is confident of the fact that Nigerian youths can compete favourably with their counterparts in developed nations.