Rehoboth Olakunle, an 11-year-old, has won the 2026 Bible Recitation Challenge organised by the Youth Fellowship of The Gospel Faith Mission International (GOFAMINT), Ogba District, Region 12. The grand finale was held on Sunday, September 20, 2026, at Pacesetters Assembly, Lagos. Olakunle impressed judges with his mastery of Scripture and biblical knowledge, beating 20 other contestants.
The competition tested contestants on various aspects of biblical knowledge, including recitation of 48 memory verses from the 2025/2026 Sunday Bible School lessons, 1 Corinthians 13, and Bible quizzes. The top 10 contestants received prizes, while all 21 participants were presented with Certificates of Excellence. Olakunle's prize included a Dell Latitude 5410 laptop, while Aduragbemi Olaniran and Jesumihefue Marcus received a mobile phone and cash prize, respectively.
District Pastor, Pastor Kehinde Ogundare, spoke on the theme, "Hiding God's Word in Your Heart." He encouraged youths to make the Word of God the foundation of their daily lives, noting that it provides guidance, strengthens believers against sin, and equips young Christians to live purposeful lives.
District Youth Pastor, Abiodun Alade, said the initiative aimed to raise a generation of young people with a deep and enduring relationship with God's Word. He commended contestants for their commitment and appreciated church leaders and supporters who contributed to the initiative's success.
The District Youth Coordinator, Tayo Olawunmi, urged young people to embrace the Word of God and allow its principles to shape their character and conduct. He noted that the true evidence of knowing Scripture is reflected in a life that demonstrates its values.
The event also recognized Grace Akinmutola, winner of the 2025 edition, who was celebrated for her achievement and continued commitment to the vision of the competition. The 2026 edition drew inspiration from 2 Timothy 2:15, which calls believers to diligently present themselves approved to God as workers who correctly handle the Word of truth.
The Bible Recitation Challenge is part of the District Youth Fellowship's efforts to promote biblical literacy, disciplined study of Scripture, and godly living among young people. This is the second edition of the challenge, which aims to encourage young people to study and memorize the Bible.
Key points
- Rehoboth Olakunle, 11, wins GOFAMINT Ogba Bible challenge with impressive display of Scripture mastery.
- The competition tested contestants on biblical knowledge, including recitation of memory verses and Bible quizzes.
- The initiative aims to raise a generation of young people with a deep and enduring relationship with God's Word.
