He believed in my dream

By John Ogunsemore

Ace gospel artiste, Nathaniel Bassey said he gained global acclaim because founder and presiding bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), Bishop Mike Okonkwo believed in him.

Nathaniel Bassey stated this in a message celebrating the revered cleric at 80.

In the message shared on Facebook, the artiste narrated how Okonkwo ordered a trumpet from abroad for him after he performed at TREM at a young age.

He said, “Big Daddy! Big 80! 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. 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.

“Year 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.

“Today, I celebrate a man who was able to spot the diamond in the rough.”

Nathaniel Bassey described Okonkwo as “a man of the word – character & stature.”

He added, “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 the wish you a GRACEFUL HAPPY BIRTHDAY SIR.”