By Ebunoluwa Sessou & Matthew Johnson

Hope for a positive transformation in Nigeria’s entertainment industry was rekindled as creative professionals across the media and entertainment space gathered in Lagos for the third edition of the Industry Night of Worship (INOW), a faith-based initiative aimed at seeking divine direction and restoring godly values within the sector.

The event, which drew actors, musicians, content creators, crew members, producers and other media practitioners, was convened by Mrs. Chioma Agwunobi. Agwunobi, the convener and organiser of the programme, described the initiative as a platform where Christian creatives can freely express their faith and seek divine direction for their careers.

Speaking at the event, Agwunobi explained that the programme was inspired to provide a spiritual safe space for professionals who often feel caught between the demands of the entertainment industry and their faith. She noted that the gathering allows creatives to come together in worship, prayer and fellowship while dedicating the entertainment industry to God.

“For us as creatives, sometimes it feels like we don’t have a place. Industry Night of Worship was born to give people in the media and entertainment space a safe haven where we can praise God, worship and be ourselves,” she said.

She added that the event is fully self-funded and supported by volunteers who believe in its vision, noting that the third edition was planned towards the end of January. She encouraged those who missed the current edition to attend future gatherings.

“Expect breakthrough, joy and the presence of God. Everyone you see here, from ushers to organisers, is volunteering, and it’s a blessing,” she said.

Some of the ministers who graced the occasion included Mr. Isaac Ray, Pastor Shola Olapade, Pastor Chuks Anochie, Bidemi Olaoba, Nosa and Uuju. They described the gathering as spiritually uplifting and impactful, aimed at sparking revival within the entertainment sector.

According to Ray, “God is ready to do something in the industry through the sound of worship, bringing people in the industry back to Him.”

Also speaking at the event, Mrs. Layole Oyatogun, an organiser and beneficiary from the previous edition, said the programme helps entertainment professionals remain grounded in their faith while navigating the pressures of the industry.

“In an industry where a lot happens, you cannot navigate it without the backing of God,” she said.
Oyatogun noted that the event encourages creatives to maintain strong values, avoid unethical shortcuts and strive for excellence in their craft.

“It reminds us to put God first. When you put God first, every other thing works,” she added.
Another organiser, Mr. Imo Udo, who is also a music director, said organising the programme required months of planning and collaboration among volunteers.

“It takes a lot of effort and creativity to bring this together, but we thank God for the success of the event,” he said.

Udo added that testimonies from previous editions included stories of spiritual encounters and renewed faith among attendees.

“We have had people share how they experienced spiritual upliftment and a deeper revelation of who God is in their lives,” he said.
Resident Pastor of Dominion City, Ajah Parish, Pastor Chuks Anochie, described the gathering as a “phenomenal night,” noting that it signals a new spiritual movement among young people in the entertainment world.

Referring to the theme of the programme, Resonate Sound, he said the gathering represents a call for a new narrative in the industry.

“There is a sound from heaven, and we are here to declare that a new move of God is coming into the entertainment industry,” he said.

He added that the initiative would help inspire young creatives to pursue success without resorting to drugs or other negative influences.