President Bola Tinubu has 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, the President joined Okonkwo’s family, congregation, and the body of Christ to celebrate the cleric’s milestone.

Tinubu described the bishop as a respected leader and mentor whose visionary stewardship has 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.

Born on September 6, 1945, Bishop Okonkwo began his career in the banking sector before answering the call to ministry.

He founded TREM in 1981, which has since grown into a global ministry with hundreds of branches in Nigeria and abroad.

A former president of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Okonkwo is widely regarded for his advocacy for social justice, leadership development, and support for the underprivileged.

He is also the convener of the Bishop Mike Okonkwo Annual Lecture, a platform that addresses national issues, and the initiator of the Mike Okonkwo Football Competition, which engages youths through sports.