As Badu celebrates Okposo’s legacy
On an unforgettable night, The Rock Cathedral in Lekki, Lagos, became the epicenter of fervent worship as thousands of believers gathered for the 2026 edition of The African Praise Experience (TAPE). This flagship annual all-night praise gathering, hosted by House on the Rock Church and led by Pastor Paul Adefarasin, took place last Friday.
With the theme “Thy Kingdom Come,” this year’s event transcended the boundaries of a typical gospel concert, transforming into a passionate call for God’s Kingdom to be revealed through heartfelt worship, thanksgiving, prayer, and unwavering devotion to Jesus Christ.
From the very beginning, an atmosphere of expectancy enveloped the packed cathedral.
Worship leader Bidemi Olaoba ignited the congregation with his signature refrain, “The Bible says…”, leading thousands in Scripture-filled praise that stirred faith, inspired gratitude, and set the tone for an unforgettable night of encounters with God.
The all-night worship experience featured a rich blend of anointed music, inspiring exhortations, and wholesome Christian entertainment, with an impressive lineup of gospel ministers and faith-based creatives.
Among the performers were Nathaniel Bassey, Dr Sonnie Badu, Moses Bliss, Mr. M & Revelation, Kae Strings, Bidemi Olaoba, Gaise Baba, Greatman Takit, Neon Adejo, Eno Michael, EmmaOMG, Pastor Tolu Odukoya, and the House on the Rock Choir.
Pastor Paul Adefarasin provided spiritual direction through inspiring exhortations and prayers.
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Each minister contributed a unique expression of worship, reflecting the diversity of the African Church. The electrifying praise from Mr. M & Revelation lifted every trace of fatigue, while Moses Bliss filled the auditorium with joy, reminding worshippers that the joy found in Christ surpasses all earthly pleasures.
The debut appearance of Kae Strings added a rich Northern Nigerian worship expression to the gathering, complementing earlier praise sessions that highlighted the Western and Eastern parts of the country, thereby underscoring the unity of the Body of Christ across cultures.
One of the defining moments of the night came during the soul-stirring worship led by Pastor Nathaniel Bassey, whose ministration directed hearts beyond melodies to the finished work of Christ, the power of His precious blood, and the believer’s continual response of gratitude.
Another poignant moment occurred when Dr Sonnie Badu paused during his performance to honor the enduring legacy of the late gospel icon, Sammie Okposo.
The heartfelt tribute stirred deep emotions throughout the auditorium, as worshippers reflected on the remarkable life and ministry of one of Africa’s most influential praise leaders.
It served as a beautiful reminder that the impact of God’s faithful servants continues long after they are gone, living on through the countless lives they touched and the timeless songs of worship they left behind.
Beyond the music, TAPE 2026 also became an altar of intercession for Nigeria. Leading a solemn session of prayers, Pastor Godman Akinlabi declared God’s peace over the nation, praying for wisdom for the country’s leaders, stability in governance, economic recovery, and divine guidance in the months leading to the 2027 general elections.
He proclaimed that there would be no bloodshed during the electoral process and prayed for God’s presence to permeate every region of the nation, from the North to the South and from the East to the West. He also committed Nigeria’s economy, healthcare, education, and security into God’s hands.
As dawn broke over Lagos, worshippers left with renewed faith, strengthened hope, and hearts overflowing with gratitude.
More than just an annual praise gathering, The African Praise Experience 2026 reaffirmed its place as one of Africa’s foremost worship assemblies, where nations unite in praise, cultures celebrate Christ with one voice, and lives are transformed through the power of God’s presence.
In a world yearning for hope, the message of “Thy Kingdom Come” resonated throughout the night, reminding believers that whenever Christ is exalted in sincere worship, heaven responds, faith is rekindled, and God’s Kingdom is manifested on earth.
TAPE 2026 was not merely an event; it was a divine encounter that left an enduring imprint on the hearts of all who gathered in worship.
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