Before he dug his way to “Rehoboth”, Isaac had met with stiff and much opposition in digging two previous wells. He called the problematic wells Contention and Hatred, because the Philistines strove with him and prevented him from using them. “And he removed from thence, and digged another well; and for that they strove not: and he called the name of it Rehoboth; and he said, for now the Lord hath made room for us, and we shall be fruitful in the land.” Genesis 26: 22 (KJV). He never gave up.
Captain Idahosa Wells Okunbo is a living legend; he did not give up when the tempest raged and difficulties arose while digging his wells. He dug day and night with absolute commitment, perseverance, vigour and tenacity in order to realise his dreams. At this point in time, I have elected to call him Captain Wells because his wells are now full of diamonds. As Jacob wrestled with an angel and prevailed, and got a new blessed name called Israel. Captain Idahosa Okunbo has dug 60 wells and prevailed; so the significance of “Wells” in his name must be pronounced to the world.
From time immemorial, the significance of wells to humanity cannot be over emphasised. It has remained a great treasure that man can possess, because of the benefits of water to human existence. Wells represent life, prosperity and abundance. As for Captain Wells, he has earned a good life for himself, prospered in all ramifications and excelled in the abundance of God.
Like numerous Biblical characters from Abraham to Isaac, Jacob and Moses, and even our Lord Jesus Christ who had a story to tell besides a well, there is no doubt that Captain Wells has a big story to tell on January 7, 2018, when he turns 60. He has conquered the air, sea and land, digging purposeful wells for himself. He is an extraordinary man with an extraordinary history.
Isaac’s courageous exploit and his ability to overcome generational struggle, became a great turning point for many generations to come. It is a great story that has continued to inspire our world till today. This great Biblical reference may have also found a space in the mind of a popular author, Brittany Burgunder, in her popular exoteric quote: “Soon, when all is well, you’re going to look back on this period of your life and be so glad that you never gave up.”
Today, Captain Idahosa Wells Okunbo can joyfully, with all gratitude to God, remember those challenging moments with nostalgia and burst into songs and say: “Thank You Thank You Lord, Thank you Lord, Thank you Lord for everything you have done, in my life.” Truly, God has been kind to the son of a selfless clergy, teacher and community leader- the late Reverend Robert Amos Okunbo. Like the literal interpretation of the popular Yoruba: “he was born well (trained well) and he has reborn himself well (becomes a respectable and honourable man).”
He has never once forgotten the values and the moral fibre inculcated in him by his great father, that made him who he is today. Through his life, through trials, through challenges, he remained focused on the goals, trusting in God, and that is what steels his faith in God, and in Nigeria, and in his family and friends. By every standard, Captain Wells is a proper “Omoluabi of Benin Kingdom.”
In the years ahead, as an exceptional citizen of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, he will continue to build on his solid reputation and legacies, internationally and domestically. Captain Wells has got a great vision for our nation, heart of kindness for humanity and love for the people. We are going to need that spirit of love and sense of vision to try to make our world a better place for all.
It is quite amazing how someone you do not know personally can inspire you by his antecedents, history, good deeds and spark such fine emotion when his name is mentioned. You cannot but bring yourself to love Captain if you listen to, and read the beautiful pieces written about him by my own “Egbon,” Mr. Sufuyan Ojeifo, a great journalist of repute himself and a kind man. For days, Ojeifo has been cracking: “Captain ‘Hosa deserves all the accolades.” So I decided join him to celebrate his own brother and a man who has attained lofty heights in business and every sphere of life.
Captain has successfully dug three scores “Wells” full of diamonds through the Grace of God that abideth with him and who has blessed him with a profound wisdom of a sexagenarian. I have no doubt he is determined to live his life to the fullest—to complete every assignment God has given to him.
Captain Wells is a great leader– leadership earned through the standard he sets for himself and the impacts he has made in our society,: the influence and inspiration. To Captain Wells: for your faith in your fellow Nigerians, for your love of our country, and for your life and time of great service, touching many lives that will endure through the generations, I would like to say: you are a champion.
Yours is, indeed, a life truly worthy of celebration as you have attained great heights, not just as an accomplished businessman but also as leader of men. Henceforth, everything you touch will turn into diamond. You have carved a niche for yourself through your business empire. Your flagship, Ocean Marine Solutions (OMS) Limited, over which you preside as chairman, is a global brand providing jobs and solutions to problems.
Like “the man who had received five bags of gold” in the the parable of the bag of gold, Captain Wells has indeed multiplied the talents God has given to him and can faithfully say “Master, you entrusted me with five bags of gold. See, I have gained five more.” I have no doubt that this is the word of God to you on your “born day”: “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’
Happy Birthday, Sir, Captain Idahosa Wells Okunbo as you share the Master’s happiness and sing praises to Him.
- Atoye contributes this piece from Abuja via aristotle001us@yahoo.com
