Text: Jude 1:6-8

1:6 And the angels who did not keep their ^[a]proper domain, but left their own abode, He has reserved in everlasting chains under darkness for the judgment of the great day;

1:7  as Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities around them in a similar manner to these, having given themselves over to sexual immorality and gone after strange flesh, are set forth as an example, suffering the ^[b]vengeance of eternal fire.

1:8  Likewise also these dreamers defile the flesh, reject authority, and speak evil of ^[c]dignitaries.

STUDY:

Today’s text emphasises the reality of God’s judgment against the rebellious and unrighteous. Sodom and Gomorrah who sold themselves to sexual immorality and perversion were given the right dose of God’s anger and condemnation; Angels who abandoned their estates were kept in darkness and bound with everlasting chains. God’s judgment is severe and hard. God is merciful and kind but those who do not regard His words and instructions will face the consequence which is always very harsh and tough.

A life that is given to unrighteousness, perversion and immorality is running the danger of being confined to everlasting chain and torture. You must ensure that you resist whatever the devil does to lure you into unrighteousness. Again, you must do everything within your power as enabled by the power of Holy Spirit, to persuade others to live their lives in righteousness and holiness so as to escape the anger and judgment of God.

Prayer: 

Almighty God, help me to flee from unrighteous living so that my end will not be in everlasting chains. Amen!

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The President, in a statement posted on his X handle on Wednesday, said the reforms fulfil his administration’s commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for young people and repositioning the NYSC for national development.

According to him, although the scheme has successfully promoted national unity for over five decades, changing realities require a more skills-driven and development-focused approach.

“On Monday, at the Federal Executive Council, our administration approved the most consequential reforms of the National Youth Service Corps Scheme since its establishment in 1973,” Tinubu said.

“On the day I was sworn in as your President, I promised to create meaningful opportunities for our young people. I said women and youth would feature prominently in our administration, and this reform is partly the actualisation of that promise.”

The President noted that young Nigerians constitute nearly 70 per cent of the country’s population and should be seen as a vital asset rather than a burden.

“Our young people are nearly 70 per cent of our population. They are not a burden to be managed; they are the engine,” he said.

Tinubu explained that the orientation programme would now last six weeks instead of three, with greater emphasis on civic responsibility, leadership, entrepreneurship, career readiness, digital and financial literacy, as well as specialised training based on participants’ academic backgrounds and career aspirations.

He said corps members would receive training in specialised fields including agriculture, healthcare, education, technology, law, public service, infrastructure, the green economy, enterprise, the creative economy, and paramilitary and security services.

“Every corps member must leave NYSC better prepared for work, enterprise and national service,” he said.

The President also disclosed that the reforms introduce a technology-driven call-up process and skills-based deployment to ensure corps members are posted in line with their qualifications and career interests.

To improve safety, Tinubu said the scheme would adopt a risk-based deployment system, particularly for security-challenged states, giving priority to indigenes, residents, graduates of institutions in affected states and neighbouring states within the same geopolitical zone.

On the administration of the scheme, Tinubu announced that the NYSC would now be headed by a civilian Director-General, supported by three Executive Directors, including one from the military or paramilitary to oversee security services.

He added that orientation camps would be evaluated under a national grading and certification framework, while states would be required to meet minimum operational standards.

The President further revealed that the traditional Passing-Out Parade would be replaced with a Graduation Ceremony to reflect the new direction of the scheme.

“The Passing-Out Parade will become a Graduation Ceremony because our corps members will no longer merely complete service. They will graduate as trained civic and professional contributors to national development,” he said.

Tinubu commended the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, his Special Adviser on Policy and Coordination, Hadiza Bala Usman, the Federal Ministry of Education and members of the reform committee for their contributions to the reforms.

He also directed the Federal Ministry of Youth Development and the Federal Ministry of Justice to begin amending the NYSC Act and relevant regulations to provide legal backing for the approved changes.

Addressing young Nigerians, the President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to investing in their future.

“To every young Nigerian: this nation believes in you. We are building a country worthy of your talent, your ambition and your future,” he said.

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The nationwide protests followed an unofficial June 30 deadline issued by citizen led groups, calling on undocumented migrants to leave the country. Security operatives were deployed to maintain order, with isolated clashes, stone-throwing and looting reported in parts of Johannesburg. Authorities also deployed soldiers in Johannesburg and Durban, while several people were arrested for criminal activities linked to the protests.

In Johannesburg, protesters carrying sticks and flags marched through the city centre as many businesses remained closed and public transport services were disrupted. In Durban, demonstrators dressed in traditional Zulu attire, carrying shields, spears and whips, also took to the streets.

Some protesters accused undocumented migrants of contributing to unemployment, crime and pressure on public services. They urged the government to strengthen immigration enforcement and deport those residing in the country illegally.

The demonstrations come as South Africa continues to grapple with high unemployment, rising crime and economic challenges, with analysts warning that migrants are increasingly being blamed for broader governance and economic problems.

Police said at least four foreign nationals including citizens of Mozambique, Ethiopia and Malawi—have died since the protests began. Another foreign national reportedly died in Durban after allegedly jumping from the eighth floor of a building while attempting to flee.

Several African countries, including Nigeria, Malawi, Ghana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique, have begun voluntary repatriation efforts for their citizens. South African authorities said more than 25,000 people have been processed for departure in recent weeks, with thousands already repatriated or deported.

Meanwhile, hundreds of migrants remain at temporary centres awaiting transport back to their home countries, with many saying they fear for their safety following threats, evictions and job losses.

President Cyril Ramaphosa recently announced tougher measures to combat illegal immigration, including tighter border controls and increased inspections, as the government seeks to address growing public concerns over undocumented migration.

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The challenge, tagged “144 Hours in the Word,” ended on Monday after six days of uninterrupted Bible reading, conducted in accordance with Guinness World Records guidelines, which permit only limited breaks for essential needs.

The record attempt, which began on June 22 at the Novotel in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, was organised to encourage deeper engagement with the Scriptures and inspire believers to cultivate a stronger commitment to Bible study.

According to supporters, the journey towards the record began in 2022 following years of preparation, dedication and spiritual discipline.

Throughout the six day exercise, Habibat received support from family members, friends, church members and well wishers, with videos shared on social media showing her reading aloud while digital timers monitored her progress.

A member of Summit Bible Church, Port Harcourt, Habibat described the challenge as a faith-based initiative rather than simply an endurance exercise.

Her Senior Pastor, Dr. Andy Osakwe of Summit Bible Churches Worldwide, also praised the effort, saying the project was intended to honour God’s Word and inspire Christians around the world.

Habitat’s attempt comes after Nigerian Samson Ajao was recognised by Guinness World Records in 2024 for completing the world’s longest marathon reading aloud, setting a record of 215 hours.

The 144-hour Bible reading will now undergo the official verification process by Guinness World Records before any record can be confirmed.

The attack occurred while students were sitting for the National Examinations Council (NECO) examination. Terrorists reportedly killed two teachers and abducted an unspecified number of students, throwing the community into panic.

Speaking on Tuesday, some parents said the Borno State Government had opened a register for families to report missing children.

One of the parents, Mr. Mbula Bura, whose 19-year-old daughter, Esther, remains missing, said 37 names had been recorded on the register.

“Parents who could not find their children were asked to register their names. So far, 37 children have been listed as missing. My daughter, Esther Mbula, who is in SS2, is among them,” he said.

Another parent, Mr. Emmanuel Dari, said his 16-year-old daughter, Lucy, was among those abducted during the attack.

“My daughter was in the classroom when the terrorists invaded the school. We were hopeful after hearing that some victims had been rescued, but when I got there, my daughter was not among them. Since yesterday, our family has not known peace,” he said.

He added that the Borno State Commissioner for Education, Lawan Wakilbe, visited the community to assess the situation and sympathise with affected families.

A resident of Lassa, Bitrus Milnda, also confirmed that two of his relatives,Martha Wajau and Abori Ujulu, both SS1 students—were still missing.

Efforts to get a response from the Borno State Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Usman Tar, were unsuccessful as he neither answered calls nor responded to enquiries.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Army had earlier confirmed the rescue of 10 abducted students and teachers during a coordinated operation carried out by troops of Operation Hadin Kai, with support from the Air Component.

The Acting Military Information Officer of the North-East Joint Task Force, Capt. Muhammed Goni, said the rescue operation followed a fierce gun battle with the attackers around the Daggu area.

He noted that although 10 victims were rescued unharmed, one soldier and a member of the Civilian Joint Task Force lost their lives during the operation. Troops also recovered seven motorcycles while efforts continue to locate and rescue the remaining abducted victims.

The announcement was made in a statement issued by the Diocese’s Communicator, Revd. Canon Akinwande Okelola, who described the Archbishop’s retirement as the end of a remarkable ministry defined by evangelism, church growth, clergy development and infrastructural expansion.

Borokini was ordained priest in 1982 after studying at Immanuel College of Theology, Ibadan. Over the years, he served in several key positions, including Statutory Canon of the Cathedral Church of St. Stephen’s, Oke Aluko, Ondo; lecturer and Registrar at Archbishop Vining College of Theology, Akure; and Registrar of Bishop Awosika College of Theology, Ondo.

In 2008, he was installed as the third Provost of the Cathedral Church of St. David’s, Akure, before being elected and consecrated as the third Bishop of Akure Diocese in 2013. He was later elevated as the fourth Archbishop of the Ecclesiastical Province of Ondo.

During his episcopacy, Borokini focused on evangelism and missionary expansion, establishing new congregations and creating additional archdeaconries to strengthen pastoral care and church administration across the Diocese.

According to the statement, the Diocese has lined up several activities to celebrate his retirement. These include the Second Session of the Fifteenth Diocesan Synod, a Synod Thanksgiving and Valedictory Service, the public presentation of a commemorative book in his honour, a valedictory visit to the Governor of Ondo State, his 70th Birthday Thanksgiving Service and a grand Retirement Thanksgiving Service.

The Archbishop also embarked on farewell visits to all the archdeaconries in the Diocese, where clergy and laity paid tribute to his years of dedicated leadership, describing his ministry as one marked by faithfulness, wisdom, compassion and selfless service.

Beyond spiritual leadership, Borokini oversaw several developmental projects, including the construction of a diocesan hospital, a sachet water production factory, a modern Bishop’s Office complex and guest house facilities, all aimed at strengthening the Church’s mission and community outreach.

His wife, Mrs. Olufunke Borokini, popularly known as “Mama Akure,” also made significant contributions during her 13-year tenure as President of the Diocesan Women’s Organisation. Under her leadership, the organisation established a retreat and conference centre, introduced an interest-free loan scheme for women, organised spiritual programmes for clergy wives and awarded scholarships to children of deceased clergy.

Archbishop Borokini is expected to officially retire on July 15, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of spiritual growth, institutional development and strengthened ministry within the Diocese of Akure and the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion).

Text: Jude 1:1-5

1:1 Jude, a bondservant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, To those who are called, ^[a]sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ:

1:2 Mercy, peace, and love be multiplied to you.

1:3  Beloved, while I was very diligent to write to you concerning our common salvation, I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints. 

1:4  For certain men have crept in unnoticed, who long ago were marked out for this condemnation, ungodly men, who turn the grace of our God into lewdness and deny the only Lord ^[b]God and our Lord Jesus Christ.

1:5   But I want to remind you, though you once knew this, that the Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed those who did not believe. 

STUDY:

To preserve means to be kept away from corruption and decomposition so that the original state can be maintained. Christians are of seeds that are incorruptible which lives and abide forever. The wicked forces will try as much as they can to bring pollution into the lives of children of God through various methods and means. But, our text today joyfully reassures us that those who are loved of God are preserved by the Lord Jesus Christ.

God who has called you is able to keep you till the end. The Christian journey is by faith in the complete work of Christ on the Cross of Calvary. Your faith is needed to keep you firmly rooted in the purposes and will of God. There is corruption and corrupting tendencies in the present world systems and values but a deep understanding, with strong conviction of the power and provisions of Jesus Christ to keep His loved ones, provide a strong base for standing strong in the face of temptations.

Prayer: 

Lord, give me sufficient grace to preserve my faith in Jesus Christ to the end. Amen!

Watch Today’s Anglican Daily Fountain Devotional:

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According to the Meta-owned messaging platform, the feature will be rolled out globally to its three billion account holders over the next few months. Beginning Monday, users will be able to reserve a unique username through the app, while names of certain high-profile public officials and celebrities will be reserved and unavailable for others to use.

The company said users would be free to remove or change their usernames at any time. Once the feature is fully activated, people will be able to connect by exchanging usernames only, while existing options to block or report unwanted messages will remain available.

WhatsApp’s Head of Product, Alice Newton-Rex, said the company had received feedback from users who did not always want to disclose their phone numbers in order to communicate with others, particularly in group chats.

She said the feature would “give users control over how they choose to show up” on the app.

Here are some key things to know about WhatsApp usernames:

Chat without sharing your phone number

Once the feature launches later this year, users who enable usernames will be able to message people or businesses for the first time without revealing their phone number.

Reserve your username now

WhatsApp is opening username reservations starting this week. Users can reserve an optional username through Settings > Account > Username before the feature is rolled out globally over the coming months.

Privacy at the center of the feature

WhatsApp says there will be no public username directory or search suggestions. People must know your exact username to contact you, and users can also enable an optional username key for an extra layer of control over who can send them messages.

Creators, businesses and organizations can keep their identity

WhatsApp will allow eligible creators, small businesses, and organisations to claim the same username they already use on Instagram or Facebook, helping them maintain a consistent online presence.

Usernames optional and will roll out gradually

Using a username is not mandatory. WhatsApp will introduce the feature in phases over the coming months and will notify users within the app when it becomes available in their country.

Tribune

Approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC), the reforms represent the first comprehensive review of the NYSC since its establishment in 1973.

Under the new framework, the orientation course will be extended from three weeks to six weeks and divided into three phases. The first phase will focus on civic responsibility, leadership development and national values, while the second phase will cover entrepreneurship, financial literacy, business planning and career development. The final phase will provide specialised training based on each corps member’s chosen career stream.

As part of the reforms, corps members will select one of 11 specialised streams during registration. These include the

1. Agric Corps,
2. Medical Corps,
3. Education Corps,
4. Tech and Digital Corps,
5. Legal Corps,
6. Public Service Corps,
7. Infrastructure Corps,
8. Green Corps,
9. Enterprise Corps,
10. Creative Economy Corps
11. Paramilitary and Security Corps. Participants will receive specialized training and deployment based on their selected stream, academic qualifications and career interests.

The government also announced that corps member deployment will now take prevailing security conditions into consideration, with greater emphasis on protecting participants through a risk sensitive posting system.

Another major change is the transition from military to civilian leadership of the NYSC. While a civilian will head the scheme, the military will continue to provide security at orientation camps and during national service.

The reforms also introduce a redesigned NYSC uniform to promote professionalism and national identity, while the traditional Passing Out Parade will be replaced with a graduation ceremony. In addition, orientation camps across the country will be upgraded through a national grading and certification system to ensure uniform standards.

According to the Federal Government, the reforms are intended to equip young graduates with practical skills, improve employability and align the NYSC with the country’s broader economic and human capital development goals.

To facilitate implementation, the Attorney General of the Federation and the Federal Ministry of Youth Development have been directed to amend the NYSC Act and other relevant regulations to provide the legal framework for the approved changes.

Bishop Nwokolo made the call while delivering remarks at the maiden edition of “The Dialogue,” an annual public lecture organised by the Department of Religion and Cultural Studies, University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

The lecture, themed “Bishop Ajayi Crowther: His Life, Missionary Work and Impact on National Development,” coincided with the 162nd anniversary of Bishop Crowther’s consecration as the first African Anglican bishop.

Before the event, Bishop Nwokolo paid a courtesy visit to the university management, where he was received on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Simon Uchenna Ortuanya, by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Onyia.

Welcoming the Anglican bishop, Prof. Onyia described him as one of the institution’s distinguished alumni, noting that he obtained his bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees from the Department of Religion and Cultural Studies.

Responding, Bishop Nwokolo congratulated the Vice Chancellor on his appointment and commended the university’s ongoing developmental strides. He prayed for wisdom and strength for the management to sustain the institution’s progress.

Addressing participants at the lecture, Bishop Nwokolo highlighted Bishop Crowther’s enduring contributions to evangelism, education, language development and nation building, stressing that genuine missionary work extends beyond preaching to transforming society.

He said Crowther demonstrated that the Gospel and national development go hand in hand by investing in education, preserving indigenous languages and promoting human dignity.

The cleric challenged scholars, students and church leaders to remain grounded in Scripture while applying their knowledge to address Nigeria’s contemporary challenges. He urged the academic community to embrace integrity, critical thinking and selfless service as tools for national transformation.

He also prayed for the continued growth of the university, expressing hope that it would remain committed to its mission of restoring the dignity of humanity through education.

In recognition of his contributions to the Church, education and national development, the Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Prof. T.C. Nzeadibe, presented Bishop Nwokolo with an Award of Excellence during the ceremony.

The bishop also announced a donation of ₦5 million to the Department of Religion and Cultural Studies to support its academic development and future programmes.

Following the public lecture, Bishop Nwokolo and his entourage paid a courtesy visit to the Anglican Bishop of Nsukka Diocese, The Rt. Rev. Dr. Aloysius Eze Agbo, who congratulated him on the successful hosting of the maiden lecture, describing it as a significant achievement for the Anglican Communion.