Christian Benefits Magazine is celebrating its 26th anniversary with a significant event on October 30, 2026, in Lagos. The interdenominational Christian publication, which began in January 2000, will formally commission its evangelical arm, Heal the Church Outreach (HECO) Ministry. This development marks a new phase in the ministry's commitment to informing, inspiring, and celebrating God's work across denominations. The event will take place at God's Mercy Revival Ministries in Ikotun, Lagos.
The commissioning of HECO Ministry is themed 'Restoring the Church's Original Purpose' and will emphasize repentance, sound biblical teaching, holy living, prayer, unity, and renewed commitment to the Gospel. Dr. Sam Oyemade, President of Bearers of Light Outreach Ministries, will serve as the guest minister. The event will bring together Christian leaders, ministers, professionals, gospel musicians, drama practitioners, media personalities, entrepreneurs, and other stakeholders to celebrate God's faithfulness, Christian service, and excellence.
The 2026 Benefits Awards for Missionary Excellence (BAME) will also be presented during the anniversary celebration. Renowned Christian drama minister, Evang. Mike Bamiloye; veteran journalist and former presidential spokesman, Mr. Femi Adeshina; and gospel music minister, Evang. Dr. Funmi Aragbaiye, JP, are among the distinguished personalities nominated for recognition. A total of 15 individuals have been nominated for the awards, which acknowledge contributions to Christian service, mission, music, drama, literature, entrepreneurship, and related fields.
HECO Ministry was envisioned in 2021 and incubated for five years before its formal commissioning. The ministry's emergence marks a significant milestone in Christian Benefits Media Ministry's longstanding commitment to promoting God's work across denominations. According to Dr. Wole Olarinde, Publisher of Christian Benefits Magazine, the event is designed to celebrate achievements and provide an opportunity for renewed commitment to the Church's biblical mandate.
The October 30 gathering is expected to usher Christian Benefits Media Ministry into a new phase of evangelical engagement, while also celebrating 26 years of Christian media service and recognizing individuals who have distinguished themselves in various areas of Christian service. The BAME Awards, established in 2004, aim to honor individuals whose contributions have made a significant impact.
Among the nominees for the 2026 Legendary Awards are Evang. Mike Bamiloye for Legendary Gospel Drama; Evang. Dr. Funmi Aragbaiye, JP, for Legendary Gospel Music; and Bishop Taiwo Adelakun for the Legendary Award for Christian Service. Other nominees include Pastor Oluwaseyi Bakare, Mr. Femi Adeshina, Evang. Mrs. Dorcas Iyabode Nihinlola Adewole, Rev. Albert Aina, Dr. Solomon Nwachukwu, Rev. Sunday Ashe, Rev. Phillip Igbinijesu, Pastor Cyril Azobu, Pastor Bayo Adaramola, and Prophet Kolawole Mosaku.
Dr. Wole Olarinde stated that the event will not only celebrate achievements but also encourage greater excellence, faithfulness, and impact in Christian service. With the commissioning of HECO Ministry as its major feature, the October 30 gathering marks a significant milestone in Christian Benefits Media Ministry's history.
Key points
- Christian Benefits Magazine marks 26th anniversary with commissioning of Heal the Church Outreach Ministry and 2026 Benefits Awards for Missionary Excellence.
- The event will feature the presentation of the 2026 Benefits Awards for Missionary Excellence to 15 distinguished personalities.
- The commissioning of HECO Ministry marks a new phase in Christian Benefits Media Ministry's commitment to promoting God's work across denominations.
