Renowned gospel musician, Nathaniel Bassey has opened up on how the Presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM) Dr. Mike Okonkwo, played a major role in his gospel music career.
Bassey, one of the foremost gospel artistes in Nigeria, famous for hits such as Imela”, “Onise Iyanu”, and “Olowogbogboro,” made this known on Facebook on Saturday September 6 while celebrating the popular clergyman who turned 80 same day.
In an emotional tribute, Bassey went down memory lane, as he recounted how he came in contact with the renowned Bishop after he, ‘a tiny, little boy with the trumpet’, had ministered at a service of songs of a family friend’s mum who was a member of TREM. His performance drew the attention of TREM members, who insisted the bishop must see him.
“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.
Reflecting on Okonkwo’s impact on his career growth, Bassey described him as “a man who was able to spot the diamond in the rough, a man of the WORD, CHARACTER, and STATURE.”
Celebrating the Bishop, he expressed deep gratitude for his role on his journey: “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!”
