When worship met wonder: Inside RCCG’s ‘Praise Encounter’
As Christians around the world commemorated the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ—a defining moment that underscores redemption, hope and victory over sin—it was a season of heartfelt thanksgiving in
As Christians around the world commemorated the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ—a defining moment that underscores redemption, hope and victory over sin—it was a season of heartfelt thanksgiving in Lagos, where thousands gathered for an unforgettable night of worship at ‘The Praise Encounter.’
Organised by the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Liberty Parish, Lagos Province 45, the Easter Monday concert transformed the National Stadium, Lagos, into a vibrant arena of praise, prayer and prophetic encounters.
From across Lagos, worshippers thronged the venue, united by a singular purpose—to lift the name of God in gratitude for the sacrifice and resurrection of Christ. The atmosphere was electric yet reverent, blending celebration with deep spiritual reflection.
The night came alive as an array of gospel ministers took to the stage, leading the crowd into moments of intense worship. Minister Chuks, Lilian Nneji, Yinka Alaseyori and renowned saxophonist BeeJay Sax delivered powerful ministrations that resonated deeply with the audience.
Their performances went beyond music, weaving together song renditions, exhortations and prophetic declarations that stirred both emotion and faith. Each note, lyric and prayer seemed to echo the central message of Easter—hope renewed and lives restored.
Adding colour and cultural richness to the experience, the RCCG Region 44 mass choir captivated attendees with dynamic performances. Clad in vibrant Hausa attire, the choir followed earlier displays by Yoruba, Edo, Igbo and Efik groups, each showcasing their unique cultural expressions through music and dance. The result was a harmonious celebration of unity in diversity, all directed in praise to God.
Honour for service, celebration of impact
The event also created space to recognise individuals whose contributions have impacted society positively. Member of the House of Representatives representing Surulere Federal Constituency I, Fuad Laguda, was honoured for his efforts in advancing education, workers’ welfare and community service.
Similarly, Hakeem Smith, Chairman of the Social Committee on Rehabilitation of Public Schools in Lagos, received commendation for his dedication to educational development and transformation of public schools.
Chairman of Itire-Ikate Local Council Development Area, Olufemi Daniel—represented by Fatai Adelani—was also recognised for his commitment to infrastructure development and people-centred governance.
Responding, Laguda described the honour as both humbling and inspiring. “It reminds us that people are watching and encourages us to do more,” he said, pledging continued service to his constituents.
From story to glory: Message of transformation
Beyond the music and recognition, the spiritual core of the night was anchored on a powerful message centred on transformation—‘From Story to Glory.’
The RCCG Continental Overseer for Continent 3 (South West Nigeria and Middle East) delivered a stirring exhortation, declaring that every life, regardless of its past, can be transformed by God.
“Everyone has a story, but not everyone ends in glory. But your story will end in glory,” he proclaimed to resounding responses from the congregation.
Drawing from the biblical account of Jabez, he emphasised that God specialises in rewriting destinies—turning pain into purpose and limitations into breakthroughs.
He challenged believers to reject negative labels, societal limitations and past failures.
“What people call you is their suggestion, not your destiny,” he said, urging worshippers to embrace a higher identity in God.
He outlined key pathways to moving from ‘Story to Glory,’ including engaging in targeted praise and prayer, breaking free from negative identities, and relying on divine backing.
According to him, when God’s hand is upon a person, transformation becomes inevitable.
In an interview, Pastor in Charge of RCCG Region 52, Samuel Olaniyan, described the event as more than a concert, calling it a “fountain of blessing.”
“Where praise is lifted, blessings come in torrents,” he said. “This programme has become an unbroken flow of God’s grace. Those who attend never remain the same.”
He noted that the timing during Easter made it even more significant. “We are celebrating the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. For that alone, He deserves our praise,” he said.
Olaniyan further urged Christians to make praise a continuous lifestyle. “When you wake up, praise God. When you eat, praise Him. It should not be occasional—it should define how we live.”
Voices of faith and purpose
For the artistes, the night was an opportunity to minister beyond entertainment.
Yinka Alaseyori emphasised that her focus remains on purpose rather than popularity. “Without God, we are nothing. So we give Him everything,” she said, encouraging Nigerians to remain hopeful despite challenges.
“Worrying solves nothing. Just hold on to God—there is hope,” she added.
Similarly, Lilian Nneji described the event as a true encounter with God’s presence. “When I heard ‘Praise Encounter,’ I knew it would be more than music. It was about encountering God—and we did,” she said.
She attributed her vibrant performance to spiritual joy. “The joy of the Lord is my strength,” she explained, adding that Easter remains a time for reflection and spiritual renewal.
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Convener of the event and Assistant Pastor in Charge of Region 52 (CSR), Godwin Obadan, expressed optimism about the future of the initiative.
“This is just the beginning. We had thousands in attendance, mostly youths, and we are planning an even bigger edition next year,” he said, noting that more artistes have already indicated interest in participating.
He also highlighted the importance of safety and organisation, ensuring a seamless experience for attendees.
A lasting encounter
As the final notes of worship faded into the night, one thing remained clear—‘The Praise Encounter’ was more than an event; it was an experience of transformation.
For many who attended, it was a moment to forget daily struggles, reconnect with God and rediscover hope. In that stadium filled with voices lifted in unison, the message of Easter rang loud and clear: that through Christ, every story—no matter how broken—can indeed be rewritten into glory.
