Gospel musician Nathaniel Bassey has shared how Dr. Mike Okonkwo, Presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), played a crucial role in his journey as a gospel artist.
Bassey, famous for hits like Imela, Onise Iyanu, and Olowogbogboro, posted the tribute on Facebook on Saturday, September 6, in celebration of the Bishop’s 80th birthday.
He recalled his first encounter with Bishop Okonkwo, which occurred after he performed with his trumpet at a service of songs for a family friend’s mother, a member of TREM.
“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,” Bassey said.
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The musician explained how Bishop Okonkwo personally encouraged him, arranging for a mini trumpet that suited his size. “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 praised the Bishop as “a man who was able to spot the diamond in the rough, a man of the WORD, CHARACTER, and STATURE.”
He concluded his heartfelt message with gratitude and celebration: “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!”
