Mr Moses Ihonde, a former Press Secretary to ex-Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, has honoured eight missionary bodies to celebrate his 80th birthday.
The missionaries are: REMI, Gwagwalada, Abuja; SOGOM, Lagos; Abaraham Olaleye Evangelical Ministry, Lagos; Calvary Ministries, Lagos; ETM, Jalingo, Taraba State; EUDOKIA Ministry, Lagos; Clean Ministry, Republic of Benin and GO International Mission, Lagos.
Speaking at the 80th birthday in Lagos, Ihonde said the gesture was to assist missionaries in their God-given assignment.
He said: “God spoke to me on August 23, 2015, while I was walking on Lekki Bridge on what I would do when I am 80. He told me to take eight missionary bodies and honour them. This is why I am celebrating my birthday this way. I will share the money we gather here today among the eight missionaries rather than just make merry for myself.”
The celebrator urged all to know God, saying it is the way to get their problems solved.
Gen. Gowon described the celebrator as a beautiful and trustworthy “young man”.
The former Head of State expressed appreciation to him for honouring missionaries during his birthday celebration.
He said Ihonde was a good, faithful and dedicated public servant under him.
Gen. Gowon said: “He is a good family man and he has a great faith in the Lord Jesus. He is a man who distinguished himself in every position he found himself. He is a jolly good fellow: serious, consistent, faithful, patient, energetic and great.”
Taraba State Governor Darius Ishaku described Ihonde as nice, honest and spirit-filled.
The governor thanked God for his life.
He said the celebrator was treading the right path, urging others to follow his footsteps.
A guest, Dr Sam Uju, urged people to support missionaries.
According to him, missionaries leave their comfort zone and bring the gospel to others.
Uju said: “If there was no missionary in Africa, we would still be in the dark. But their coming has brought development to Africa in so many ways.”