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| Image: Facebook |
Gospel music star Nathaniel Bassey has highlighted the influential role of Dr. Mike Okonkwo, Presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), in shaping his career in gospel music.
Bassey, famed for tracks like Imela, Onise Iyanu, and Olowogbogboro, shared his tribute on Facebook on Saturday, September 6, in honour of Bishop Okonkwo’s 80th birthday.
Recalling his first encounter with the Bishop, Bassey described how his musical talent first drew attention at a service of songs for a family friend’s mother, who was a TREM member.
“I remember ministering at a service of songs of a family friend’s mum who was a member of TREM. There I was, a tiny little boy, with the trumpet. As I blew the place erupted. The members of TREM insisted Bishop had to see me,” he wrote.
He went on to describe how Bishop Okonkwo personally nurtured his gift: “So, on Sunday, I was in TREM. And an even more eruption of praise took place. Bishop then ordered a mini trumpet overseas, something to fit the size and frame of this little trumpet boy. Years pass and I grew in the Lord, and in 1998 precisely, I was ordained a minister of music in the church. The sound of that trumpet reverberates around the world because someone believed.”
Bassey described the Bishop as “a man who was able to spot the diamond in the rough, a man of the WORD, CHARACTER, and STATURE.”
Expressing his appreciation, Bassey concluded: “Thank you for your invaluable input into my life and ministry. On this occasion of your 80th, I join the body of Christ world over to wish you a graceful happy birthday, Sir. Keep shining, Big Daddy!”
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