Tinubu, pastors celebrate Bishop Okonkwo at 80

President Bola Tinubu, on Saturday, congratulated the founder and Presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission, Bishop Mike Okonkwo, on the occasion of his 80th birthday.

In a statement released on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described the bishop as a respected leader and mentor whose visionary stewardship had fostered peace, promoted education, improved healthcare, and inspired economic empowerment across Nigeria and beyond.

“As a respected leader, mentor, and advocate for the downtrodden, Bishop Okonkwo’s commitment to lifting the underprivileged and upholding harmony and the unity of the country reflects the fundamental values of Nigeria,” the President said.

He praised the cleric’s discipline, dedication, and unwavering faith in God, noting that his life and ministry continue to shape the nation’s moral and social fabric.

May God continue to bless him with good health, strength, and wisdom as he carries the gospel worldwide.

“I pray that Bishop Okonkwo’s exemplary humility and simplicity will inspire the current and future generations to pursue lives of service, leadership, and dedication to humanity. Happy 80th birthday, Your Eminence,” Tinubu added.

This is as Nigerian pastors abroad poured warm wishes on the bishop for his positive impacts in their lives.

In separate statements made available,the abroad-based Nigerian pastors praised Okonkwo, describing him as a father in faith, whose ministry had shaped countless lives and congregations around the world.

A Nigerian pastor based in Ireland, Rev Chuka Paul and his wife, Rev Mrs Blessing Oguekwe, described the octogenarian as “an icon and father in the faith.”

They recalled with emotion how Okonkwo and his wife, Bishop Peace, personally sponsored their entire wedding.

“One of the most notable examples of his generosity and love was the full sponsorship of our wedding—both the traditional and church ceremonies were completely paid for by him and Big Mummy.

“Over the years, he has nurtured us into who we are today, modeling leadership marked by integrity and grace. On the occasion of his magnificent 80th birthday, we celebrate an extraordinary life dedicated to God and the transformation of humanity,” the couple said.

Rev Jude Akele from Stratfold, UK, alongside his wife, Ebere, also praised the bishop’s memorable impact in their lives, saying he was not only a real church leader, but also a mentor and life coach.

Pastor Jude recalled a personal encounter with Okonkwo that changed his life during his university days.

A defining moment occurred at the University of Benin when Bishop Okonkwo laid hands on me. Since then, the journey has been transformative. His passion for the growth of his spiritual children is inspiring,” he said.

Another UK-based pastor, Rev Abiodun Adesanya, and his wife, Olayemi, also praised the Bishop, describing him as “a pillar of grace at 80.”

“Your life radiates the heart of Christ—serving humbly, loving gently, and leading with integrity. At 80, your legacy blossoms still, an enduring beacon of spiritual strength and fatherly love,” Adesanya stated.

Rev Michael and Rev Mrs Maria Fapojuwo of Fulham said the bishop’s trust and confidence shaped their life and ministry.

“I came to TREM in 1997 at a crossroads. By 2003, despite not knowing me personally, Bishop approved my posting to TREM Asti, Italy—proof of his trust and detribalised heart. His leadership reshaped my life and ministry. We love and celebrate you, sir,” they said.

In Tel Aviv, Pastor Benjamin and Rev Mrs Chinenye Modebelu testified that living under Okonkwo’s tutelage transformed their lives.

“Big Daddy is my father, mentor, and guide. Living with him taught me faith, discipline, and service.

He supported my family, ordained me as a pastor, and launched me into ministry, where I met my husband. Even today, he prays for us and checks on us like a true father. We are forever thankful,” Pastor Modebelu said.

Rev Felix and Rev Mrs Chinonye Azuonye from Houston, United States, also celebrated the octogenarian.

“Whatever we are today in life and ministry is due to our connection with Daddy. There’s nothing my family and I are today that did not start with his declarations, love, and guidance,” they wrote.

Similarly, Rev Fred Imuseh and his wife, Chinyere, of Atlanta, highlighted the bishop’s values in their birthday wishes.

“Thank you, Dad, for pointing me to Jesus and teaching me integrity, humility, and love. You’ve modeled faithfulness and the beauty of a godly marriage. I’m grateful for your covering and wisdom,” they wrote.

In Canada, Pastor Ndy and Akudo Onyido also recounted Okonkwo’s unwavering support for their spiritual growth.

“From a humble house fellowship, we have grown to TREM Toronto because of your prayers and encouragement. Your steadfast support—both spiritually and financially—empowered us to build what we have today. May God richly bless you always,” they said.

Another Canada-based pastor, Rev Tayo Kayode, described Okonkwo’s teachings as life-changing.

“Your teachings on grace have transformed my walk with God. Through your covering, my family and I live boldly in Christ. I’m forever grateful for your impact,” the pastor stated.

It is gathered that as part of activities to celebrate the bishop’s birthday, a lecture held in his honour at the Civic Centre in Lagos attracted many other Christian leaders in Nigeria and beyond.

While delivering the public lecture on Thursday, former Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, also paid warm tributes to the octogenarian’s trailblazing impacts in the advancement of Christianity across the world.

In their tributes issued during the week, the Bishop’s family members also extolled his leadership qualities and godly lifestyle.

His wife, Peace Okonkwo, described the TREM leader as “a man with a very good heart—kind-hearted, loving, God-fearing, and full of integrity.”

She said that although many see him as fierce on the pulpit, the bishop is gentle, shy, and deeply family-oriented at home.

Most people see his passion while preaching and might think him aggressive and forceful—yes, against anything that contends with God’s plan for your life in Christ. But Bishop is a private, shy, peaceful, and easy-going man,” she added.

Okonkwo’s daughter, Lady Uche Asugha, described him as her greatest influence in life after God.

“Describing my father is one of the greatest joys of my life. He remains the most significant influence on me after God, especially in shaping my Christian faith and walking with the Lord,” she said.