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By Vera Wisdom-Bassey
Presiding General Overseer of Word Base Assembly, Isolo, Bishop Humphrey Erumaka, has called on Nigerians to be united in purpose, even in assisting others.
The call was made during the thanksgiving of Okey-Joe Onuakalusi, the member representing Oshodi-Isolo Federal Constituency II.
The event held at RCCG Cornerstone Parish, Okota Road, brought together political leaders, clerics, community leaders and dignitaries in an atmosphere of worship, empowerment and reflection.
Bishop Erumaka called on Nigerians to rise above sentiments, tribalism and nepotism, to focus on helping one another.
In his words: “We are in a time when we should not be looking at where you are coming from, your background or your intentions. What matters is what you have to offer and how you can help. My prayer for Onuakalusi is that God will continue to grant him opportunities to exercise his leadership and sustain him in the journey ahead.”
The bishop’s sermon, drawn from 2 Samuel 7:1, emphasised the importance of gratitude. He explained that his thanksgiving was significant because it demonstrated an understanding of the source of his strength. Drawing comparisons with the biblical account of David and Saul, he noted: “David remembered God and built Him a house, but Saul, despite all he had, never remembered God. Gratitude is essential because ingratitude is born when you forget where God picked you from.”
He urged Nigerians to reflect on their beginnings and appreciate the progress God has given them. “Many people today trivialise the blessings of God because they feel entitled. But a heart of gratitude acknowledges where God has lifted us from, be it from Mushin, Ajegunle, or other humble communities, and celebrates His faithfulness. Gratitude reminds us never to forget our roots.”
The thanksgiving service was not just a spiritual gathering but also an occasion of empowerment. Onuakalusi, who has served his constituency for over two and a half years, has empowered more than 500 individuals during his tenure. As part of his commitment to human capital development, he revealed that 18 young Nigerians had been sent to China and Taiwan for professional nursing training, an initiative fully sponsored by his office.
He described himself as a man sustained purely by divine grace. “I am a product of grace,” he said, his voice thick with emotion. “I am not qualified for any position, but God has chosen to honour me among many. That is why I return to Him today with thanksgiving. Everything I have achieved is because of His strength.”
He went on to explain that the driving force behind his work is service to his people and gratitude to God. “This celebration is not about me alone, but about the people whose lives have been touched. It is about thanking God for the opportunity to serve.”
The event was filled with activities, including inspirational music and testimonies of lives impacted through Onuakalusi’s leadership. Dignitaries from across Nigeria attended, underscoring the significance of the occasion. Among the notable guests were colleagues from various constituencies and the son of Professor Jerry Gana, who represented Niger State.
For many in attendance, the thanksgiving was more than a political gathering; it was a reminder that leadership at its core, is about service and gratitude.
Erumaka’s call to Nigerians to set aside divisions and extend a hand of help to one another resonated deeply, highlighting the urgent need for unity in a nation often fractured along tribal and political lines.
