Few weeks ago, the internet was agog with another phenomenon…
OLOWOGBOGBORO! This is a Yoruba word that means THE OUTSTRETCHED ARM OF GOD!
On WEDNESDAY 28th of June hundreds of people
especially youths gathered at the GLITZ EVENT CENTRE LEKKI, as thousands
connected online to witness THE HALLELUYA
FESTIVAL. At about 2pm, people had begun to troupe into the hall, for an event
which was designated to kick start by 10pm.
After experiencing this historical event live and direct,
here are some life lessons that I believe are noteworthy.
1. A GOD INSPIRED IDEA DON’T NEED PERFECTION: According
to the Organizer Nathaniel Bassey, the event wasn’t preplanned, he was just
conducting his usual midnight praise, worship and prayer session; when it
dawned on him that he could actually make a LIVE Video via Instagram of the
whole worship session. From a few friends and fans following it to thousands
across the world in a space of one month, it is clear that there is a divine
backing behind the idea. As if that was not enough, the #HallelujahChallenge
drew the attention of CNN, and they had to do a report about the event.
2. THERE IS MORE TO SOCIAL MEDIA: In this
age and time when society sees only the negativity around social media- thanks
to the actions of the Nigerian Youth Populace, it is refreshing to see Social
Media bringing youths together for a good and admirable course. Nigerians who
are very cautious of their DATA/MB didn’t hold back when it comes to viewing
the sessions via Instagram. Indeed, that’s a positive. Like he (Nathaniel
Bassey) said, “If someone can shop online, why can’t they get born again
online”?
3. CRITICS COULD BE THE BEST SOURCE OF PUBLICITY: From my
findings, the publicity for the #HallelujahChallenge wasn’t as high as though a
major concert was being planned for; however, the negative reviews and comments
from certain elements in the media actually made people who were unaware more
curious about the whole OLOWOGBOGBORO frenzy. And the more these minds sought,
the more they began to appreciate the concept.
4. CONCENTERATE ON BUILDING YOURSELF: While
introducing one of the artists to minister, Nathaniel pointed out that it is
important for young talented artists to FOCUS on connecting with God rather
than seeking platforms, he said that once you are READY, you will be sought out
for. He further said that because of the effect of the #HallelujahChallenge
Pastors from various churches were offering to support the course and
contribute to its success.
5. THERE IS A REVOLUTION COMING: When I
saw young dudes and girls happily walking in to the venue of the Hallelujah
Festival, foregoing there sleep and the comforts of their beds, just to PRAISE,
WORSHIP & PRAY to God… I felt extremely excited in my soul. This is a kind
of crowd you see for a Davido or Wizkid Show; but this time, JESUS was the
centre of the gathering. Seeing Funke Akindele (Jenifa), Uche Jumbo, Rita
Dominic, Don Jazzy and a host of other Nigerian celebrities posting
consistently about the #HallelujahChallenge is a clear sign that EVERYONE NEEDS
JESUS! There is a Revolution coming that is REVEALING JESUS in the hearts and
lives of everyone, despite their Celebrity status. The Revolution such that
being a Child Of God and branding yourself a BORN AGAIN CHRISTIAN is going to
be a trendy thing.
Personally, I don’t think I’d trade the opportunity of
experiencing the #HallalelujahChallenge for anything else in this world.
Stay Blessed.
