The International Council of Bishops and Apostles for Africa Regeneration (ICABAR) has appointed the Publisher of Christian Benefits Magazine, Dr. Wole Olarinde, as the Executive Director (Operations) of the Council.
ICABAR is the leadership arm of the United Gospel Churches Association of Nigeria (UGCAN), with the vision of restoring Africa as a first-world continent according to God’s standards.
Bishop Dr. Priscilla, Otuya, the President of the Council, in her statement on the appointment of officers of the Council, explained that Olarinde was appointed as Executive Director (Operations), with responsibilities to lead the Executive Operations Team, implement operational directives from leadership, and ensure the effective execution of ICABAR programmes.
According to the statement, other appointed officers of the Council are: Bishop Dr. Priscilla Joseph-Otuya (President), Bishop Tammy Willie (Vice President), Evangelist Chiju Joseph Nkwo (Chief Apostolic Overseer), Ambassador (Dr.) Henry Emeka Obidi (Chief Operations Officer), and Evangelist Joyce Erdoo Maagbe (International Secretary).
Others include Minister Ada Abanum (Treasurer), Minister Nene Kalu Mmaju (Legal & Governance Advisor), Emeka Williams (Director of Public Relations), and Apostle Amos Akinwale Sanya (Head of Apostles & Prophets).
The Council also appointed members of its Advisory Council, including Apostle Larry Medley (Chairman), Frenchy Medley (Senior Advisory Elder), Ebony Boyd (International Advisory Member), and Rev. Donna Ghanney (Kingdom Research Advisor).
ICABAR is founded on the prophetic mandate of Isaiah 58:12:
“And they that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places: thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in.”
Bishop Dr. Priscilla Otuya, the President, stated:
“As God’s elect, we are called to repair the ancient ruins, restore the original foundations of the Body of Christ, and bring the Kingdom of God into the governance and destiny of Africa. Romans 11:7 underscores that this restoration will be accomplished through the election of God:”
“What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded.”
She further stated that the time has come for Africa to rise and take her rightful place as a first-world continent according to God’s standards. She added that the original foundation God laid for the Body of Christ on earth was altered, creating instability among His elect.
“Scripture reminds us: If the foundation be destroyed, what can the righteous do?” (Psalm 11:3).
Originally, the Monarch of the Universe ruled over His people through prophets and priests, guiding and protecting them. Trouble began when the people demanded kings like other nations, as recorded in 1 Samuel 8 and 9. A careful study of these chapters reveals that the oppression, exploitation, and injustice seen in governments today were foretold as consequences of that demand.
She emphasized that the only way forward for Africa is to return to God and restore His original system of governance.
“It is ordained that government shall rest upon the shoulders of Jesus Christ (Isaiah 9:6):
For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder…”
She added that the separation of Church and State has left nations disconnected from their Maker, referencing Revelation 3:1:
“I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead.”
She further noted that the existence of institutions that shape ministers without alignment to divine standards reflects a deviation from God’s truth. According to her, ICABAR exists to restore God’s government over Africa through His elect, reclaiming the continent’s destiny according to His original plan.
“ICABAR’s mandate is to sensitize, mobilize, equip, and engage ‘Power Generators’—Apostles, Bishops, women, and youths—to repair the ancient ruins, restore Africa’s God-ordained governance, and establish her as a first-world continent by God’s standards,” the ICABAR President concluded.
Profile of Dr. Wole Olarinde, Executive Director (Operations), ICABAR
Full Name
Dr. Wole Akinyemi Olarinde
Professional Overview
Dr. Wole Olarinde is a Nigerian professional journalist, publisher, and Christian media practitioner. He is a seasoned and respected figure in Christian journalism, widely known as the Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Christian Benefits Magazine—a faith-based publication dedicated to promoting the gospel and Christian values.
Career & Ministry Journey
Dr. Olarinde began his career in mainstream journalism, working with reputable media organisations such as The Guardian Newspapers and Media Review Magazine. He also had brief stints with the defunct Poise Magazine (under Daily Times) and worked as a freelance writer for publications including Third Eye (Ibadan), The Tide (Port Harcourt), and Sunray Newspaper.
In 1999, he made a significant transition into Christian journalism—a move he describes as purposeful and fulfilling, aligning with his faith and calling.
On January 29, 2000, he founded Christian Benefits Magazine with the mandate to:
Spread the gospel of Jesus Christ for the salvation of mankind
Highlight the benefits of salvation and Christian living
He has led the publication for over two decades, celebrating major milestones, including its 25th anniversary in 2025.
Leadership & Influence
Dr. Olarinde is recognised as a leading voice in Christian media in Nigeria. Through his work, he leverages journalism as a tool for evangelism, faith-based storytelling, and the promotion of Christian values. His message consistently emphasises purpose, spiritual fulfilment, and commitment to God’s calling.
Other Roles & Engagements
Dr. Olarinde has held several leadership and advocacy roles, including:
President, Class of 1997 Alumni (ASCOM), Department of Mass Communication, The Polytechnic Ibadan
Former President, Pioneer/87 Set, Okota Secondary School Old Students Association (OSSOSA)
Immediate Past National President, Okota Secondary School Old Students Association (OSSOSA)
Founding Member, Christian Press Association of Nigeria (CPAN)
He is also the President and Executive Director of:
Benefits Awards for Missionary Excellence (BAME)
Christian Benefits Missionary Foundation (CBMF)
Heal the Church Outreach (HECO) Ministry.
Campaign Against Pedophilia Africa (CAPA)
Publications
Dr. Olarinde is the author of several notable works, including:
Otunba Jesu: The Story of the Conflicts in Heaven
The Rehab’s Cord: The Confessions of Born Again Prostitutes
My Dossier: A Celebration of 20 Years in Christian Journalism (2020)
Personal Philosophy
Dr. Olarinde believes that living out God’s purpose brings fulfilment far beyond career success.
Summary
Dr. Wole Olarinde is a seasoned Christian media leader whose work effectively bridges journalism and ministry. Through Christian Benefits Magazine and other platforms, he has spent over two decades impacting lives by communicating the message of Christ and its practical benefits.