Spotlight
Okada returns to Onitsha, but not as you usually know them


BY: Ikenna Oluka
Commercial motorcycle operators locally known as “Okada”, are gradually returning to Onitsha, a popular city in Anambra State, Nigeria.
The state government had in May 2018 issued a quit notice to the Okada riders in the two major cities of Onitsha and Awka and urged them to change to another trade or vacate the cities for good.
Chief Press secretary to Governor Willie Obiano, Mr. James Eze, said the directive, which was one of the resolutions from the weekly State executive council meeting, was part of the overall strategy adopted by the government to deepen its crackdown on crime and restore sanity to Onitsha and Awka.
The ban commenced on July 1, 2018.
But, speaking during the 2018 Annual Seminar of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council in Awka, the Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano, offered more insights on the ban, explaining that the ban would be for commercial motorcyclists in Onitsha and Awka and their neighbouring towns.
He revealed that the state government was making alternative arrangements to provide more shuttle buses to cover as many routes as possible, while calling on transporters to take advantage of the opportunity and invest in deploying shuttles and tricycles to complement government’s efforts.
“The state government has designed a hire purchase arrangement where the motorcycle operators will be provided tricycles and shuttles and they pay in installments over a period of time in consideration to the plight of Ndi Anambra who may be affected by the ban,” he said.
He reiterated that the ban is solely in the best interest of the citizens and residents of the state, and that it would also help government decisively address cases of motorbike robbery in many parts of the state which has been on the increase in recent times.
According to him, the state government, by August 1, this year, would vacate the shanties located opposite the Onitsha prison as a result of the series of crimes reportedly perpetrated there.
However, GRASSROOTS.NG gathered that Okada riders are gradually creeping back on “4wheel brand”, especially in Onitsha:






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Spotlight
“Jesus + Nothing Worship” Leaves Lasting Impact, Amplifying the Message of Christ’s Sacrifice and Resurrection
Reporter: SANDRA ANI


The Love of God in Christ (LOGIC) Church successfully hosted its inaugural “Jesus + Nothing Worship” on Easter Friday, leaving attendees deeply moved and spiritually uplifted.
The powerful evening of gospel music served as a profound reminder of the sacrifice and glorious resurrection of Jesus Christ, emphasising the core message that through a sober Friday came a Good Friday for all.




The LOGIC Church headquarters in Lekki, Lagos, was filled with an atmosphere of heartfelt worship as a phenomenal lineup of Nigeria’s leading gospel artists and emerging talents took to the stage. Award-winning ministers such as Timi Dakolo and Greatman Takit, alongside Neon Adejo, SMJ, Noble G, Steve Hills, Lily Perez, Joxie, Anderson Qozan, Pastor Victor Paul, EmekaSongz, Flo, Dorcas Moore, Magpsalms, Mera Owili, Gerald Bishung, spoken word poetry from Phebe Lion, comedy from Larry J and the wonderful Evolution Children’s Choir, delivered soul-stirring performances that resonated with the central theme of redemption through Jesus Christ.
Apostle Dr. Flourish Peters, Lead Pastor and Apostolic Head of The LOGIC Churches Global, declared the “Jesus + Nothing Worship” an impactful success and announced that it would become an annual program.
He emphasised that this worship session is intentionally focused on Jesus Christ, the message of salvation, and providing a vital platform to unveil the gospel talents within The LOGIC Church.


“‘Jesus + Nothing Worship’ has been a truly unifying experience, allowing us to collectively focus on the profound significance of Jesus’ death and the abundant life we have in His resurrection,” stated Apostle Dr. Flourish Peters. “It is our vision to create a consistent platform where the power of music can amplify the core message of the Gospel and provide an opportunity for the incredible music ministers within our church to impact lives .”
Building on the momentum of the successful 2024 “Jesus + Nothing Conference,”the ‘Jesus + Nothing Worship’ further solidified The LOGIC Church’s mission to cultivate a family centered on grace and faith, where the transformative Love of God in Christ is tangibly felt.
The impactful “Jesus + Nothing Worship” event powerfully reiterates that the resurrection stands as the very essence of the Christian faith. As Apostle Dr. Flourish Peters eloquently stated, “Without an empty grave, there is no Christian faith. Our faith is fundamentally premised on this singular, undeniable truth – the empty grave. This is what distinguishes our faith; while over 4000 religions exist, only one points to a vacated tomb. Ours is the unique faith where the very person we worship lives within us. We are truly elated that through the resounding success of ‘Jesus + Nothing Worship,’ we were able to bring christocentric worship to the masses.”


MTN Nigeria’s Go Make A Difference (Go MAD) campaign brought its message of innovation and empowerment to Aba, the renowned hub of enterprise, on Sunday, March 23, 2025. The event, held at Sugarland, Luxury City Hotel, celebrated local creativity and resilience while encouraging Nigerians to take bold steps toward transforming their communities.
Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, Chief Marketing Officer of MTN Nigeria had earlier the inspiration behind the Go M.A.D initiative. “The Go M.A.D. campaign is rooted in the belief that MTN data gives you the power to take on the world, to achieve the extraordinary, and to make a meaningful difference, in your community, your family, and your workplace.”
The campaign has already made stops in cities like Abuja, Enugu, Calabar, Ibadan, and Benin, showcasing changemakers who embody the spirit of progress. In his opening remarks, MacDaniels Enwemuche, Regional Manager, Sales & Trade Development at MTN Nigeria, emphasised the importance of resilience during challenging times. He stated: “MTN is here to remind us that every great achievement starts small. We’re providing a platform for Nigerians to showcase their skills and products, not just locally but globally, removing limitations and amplifying their impact.”
Describing Aba as Nigeria’s “Silicon Valley”, Enwemuche explained the need to activate this campaign in Aba, due to the city’s industrious spirit and alignment with the Go MAD philosophy: “Aba is already making a difference. Every person — doctor, teacher, shoemaker — has a role to play in our ecosystem. Do it well.”
The event featured inspiring stories from local changemakers. Like chessmaster Tunde Onakoya, the campaign’s ambassador, these stories reflected how small steps can lead to global impact. Onakoya rose from humble beginnings to become a Guinness World Record holder for the longest chess marathon. His journey exemplifies the transformative power of determination and digital connectivity.
Local talents also took centre stage in a vibrant showcase. A body painter, tailor, and mechanical engineer demonstrated their crafts live, while fashion designer Prinna Nnanna unveiled an athleisure line sewn overnight and modelled on-site.
The Icons of Impact session highlighted changemakers using MTN data to drive social change. Dr. Precious Uche, CEO of Tonatel Beauty and Spa, shared her mission to redefine beauty standards:
“My business fights bleaching and promotes ‘black is beautiful.’ MTN data has helped me spread this message across Owerri and Aba.”
Fashion entrepreneur Michael Chinedu Ogbonna, CEO of Mua Couture, discussed how digital tools have expanded his reach: “The internet has made the world a global village. I now create clothes for clients in Malaysia, the US, and Canada — all thanks to data.”
Through storytelling, cultural showcases, and real-life examples, the Go MAD Aba activation reminded attendees that even small acts of courage can spark significant change. The campaign continues to celebrate resilience and innovation across Nigeria while empowering communities with digital tools.
With upcoming activations planned for cities like Jos, Lagos, and Kano, MTN remains committed to inspiring Nigerians to make a difference, one bold step at a time.
Spotlight
Kingsley Ifeanyi Adonu Breaks Barriers, Wins MTN Nigeria Partners Award 2024


In an extraordinary display of excellence, Kingsley Ifeanyi Adonu, a leading MTN Nigeria partner from Enugu, has shattered records to claim the top prize at the 2024 MTN Nigeria Partners Award.
Adonu emerged as the number one partner in airtime and data distribution across Nigeria, a monumental achievement that marks the first time a partner from the Southeast has reached such heights in the history of MTN Nigeria.
This victory is not just a personal milestone for Adonu but a transformative moment for the Southeast region.
His success is a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of resilience, innovation, and determination. In a competitive field of partners nationwide, Adonu’s achievement stands as a bold reminder that greatness knows no boundaries.
“This is more than an award; it is a symbol of what is possible when you believe in yourself and commit fully to your vision,” Adonu said during his acceptance speech. “I dedicate this victory to the Southeast region and to everyone striving to achieve the impossible. Let this inspire us all to break barriers and set new records.”
MTN Nigeria lauded Adonu’s exceptional contribution, describing his win as a historic moment that underscores the importance of dedication and strategic leadership.
“Kingsley Ifeanyi Adonu’s success is proof that dreams backed by action can rewrite history. He has set a new standard for excellence and innovation among all MTN partners,” said a senior MTN executive.
This milestone achievement is a source of pride for the Southeast region and an inspiration for future generations. Adonu’s journey demonstrates that with focus and determination, even the loftiest goals can be achieved.
His groundbreaking success is a rallying cry for others to push boundaries, take bold steps, and transform their aspirations into reality.
Kingsley Ifeanyi Adonu’s victory will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on MTN Nigeria’s history and the telecommunications industry as a whole, igniting a wave of ambition and progress nationwide.
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