A prominent Nigerian cleric, Bishop Irabor Wisdom Robinson, has called for the institution of a special day tagged “World Dr. Chris Okafor Day” to honour the life and contributions of renowned Lagos-based preacher, Dr. Chris Okafor, especially during his birthdays.
In a heartfelt tribute shared to commemorate the birthday of Dr. Okafor, the General Overseer of Answers Assembly, Warri, Delta State, described the founder and senior pastor of Grace Nation International as a “Generational Prophet” whose impact on lives and the expansion of God’s kingdom deserves global recognition.
April, a month that traditionally sees an outpouring of love and celebration for Dr. Okafor, was marked by a special gesture from Bishop Irabor, who penned a tribute titled “Eight Birthday Notes to the Generational Prophet.” The tribute chronicled personal experiences, notable gestures, and spiritual influence of Dr. Okafor over the years.
“Happy Birthday to the man who is completely different from everything his enemies told you about him,” Bishop Irabor wrote. “My relationship with you made me realize that people can misjudge others. I found God relating with you, Dr. Chris Okafor.”
Among the revelations in the tribute was how Dr. Okafor paid over N4.3 million in school fees for Bishop Irabor’s two daughters in private universities. “Apart from you and Pastor David Ibiyeomie, no mentor or senior man has ever done anything for me,” he stated.
Bishop Irabor also hailed Dr. Okafor’s leadership style, particularly his approach to mentoring assistant pastors. He praised the humility and openness the Grace Nation leader demonstrates while still commanding deep respect and reverence.
Recalling a visit to Lagos, Bishop Irabor recounted witnessing Dr. Okafor issue a N20 million cheque as a prophetic offering to a visiting mentor — a gesture he said underscored the cleric’s generosity and reverence for spiritual fathers.
Describing Dr. Okafor as “a Christian to the core,” the tribute highlighted his intense commitment to fasting, prayers, and a life of humility, despite overseeing a 25,000-seater cathedral, over 400 branches worldwide, a Lekki property reportedly sitting on more than 50 plots of land, and luxurious personal assets which he rarely speaks about.
“I still stayed in your ministry’s 5-star hotel for free during my last visit to Lagos,” Bishop Irabor added, applauding the hospitality and support Dr. Okafor consistently extends to him and others.
The tribute concluded with glowing remarks about Dr. Okafor’s balanced approach to ministry — combining sound teaching, prophetic insight, and pastoral care — as well as his generous act of buying a duplex for his Resident Pastor in the same estate where he resides.
“Thank you for being there for me and several others. I sincerely and genuinely love you. You are my brother for life. Happy birthday, sir,” Bishop Irabor wrote.
Dr. Chris Okafor continues to command a large following globally, with his Grace Nation Church recognized for its dynamic ministry and community impact.