Military expansion will improve response to insecurity, protect churches — Cleric

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The Founder of The New Seraph Evangelical Ministries Worldwide and Iya Aladura General, Dr Oluwaseye Yomi-Sholoye, has commended President Bola Tinubu for expanding the Nigerian Armed Forces, saying the move would improve response to security threats and enhance the protection of churches, schools and other vulnerable locations across the country.

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Tinubu had in July 2026 approved a major military expansion involving the recruitment of 28,000 additional soldiers and an increase in the Nigerian Army’s divisions from eight to 12 as part of efforts to tackle terrorism, banditry and kidnapping.

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Speaking at a press conference in Lagos on Thursday to announce the eighth edition of the Night of Divine Experience (NODE 8.0), Yomi-Sholoye said the expansion would strengthen national security and help curb attacks on communities and places of worship.

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She said, “We recognise ongoing efforts by the Federal Government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly the strengthening and expansion of the Armed Forces divisions aimed at improving response time and enhancing national security.

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“We believe that such strategic measures will contribute significantly to reducing threats such as banditry, violent attacks and invasions of worship centres, thereby restoring confidence and safety across communities.”

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The cleric said Nigeria remained at a critical point in its history and required both divine intervention and collective responsibility from its citizens.

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According to her, despite the country’s economic, social and security challenges, Nigerians must continue to play active roles in nation-building through lawful conduct, prayers and responsible civic engagement.

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She urged eligible voters to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards and reject vote-buying ahead of future elections.

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Yomi-Sholoye said, “At a time like this in our national journey, when our country continues to navigate economic, social and security challenges, the need for divine intervention, unity and collective responsibility cannot be overemphasised.”

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She also advised Nigerians to elect leaders based on competence, character and capacity rather than financial inducements.

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According to her, “The season of empty promises is over. Show us your works. Be instruments of breakthrough. Use your influence to bless the nation, not just yourselves. Unite for Nigeria. Give our youths a future to believe in.”

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Yomi-Sholoye added that the church would continue to serve as a moral voice by praying for the nation while speaking truth on issues affecting society.

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She said righteousness, justice and unity remained essential for Nigeria’s development, expressing confidence that the country would experience peace, restoration and supernatural breakthrough.

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The cleric unveiled the 2026 edition of the Night of Divine Experience, themed “Supernatural Breakthrough,” scheduled to hold from August 12 to 14 at The New Seraph Prayer City, Ode Remo, Ogun State.

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