Ebenezer Adurokiya, Reporting
THE Esama of the Benin Kingdom, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, has renamed the Igbinedion University Teaching Hospital after world-renowned televangelist Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to humanity and his dedication to the healing ministry.
The announcement was made during the university’s 20th convocation ceremony, where Pastor Oyakhilome was also conferred with an honorary doctorate degree.
Speaking at the event, Chief Igbinedion declared that the teaching hospital would henceforth be known as the Pastor Dr Chris Oyakhilome Igbinedion University Teaching Hospital, acknowledging the clergyman’s “sterling qualities and significant contribution to the upliftment of mankind and exceptional devotion to the healing ministry.”
Pastor Oyakhilome, who was visibly moved by the honour, recounted his first encounter with the Esama in 2019.
He revealed that he had received a message that Chief Igbinedion wished to see him while he was in South Africa, and initially thought there might have been a miscommunication.
“When we eventually met, Chief was in a wheelchair. He had been incapacitated and could not walk due to problems with his knees,” Pastor Oyakhilome recalled. “I sat close to him, put my hands on his knees, and he had faith like a child. He got up and walked out of that place to his car.”
The clergyman disclosed that he subsequently visited the Esama, who has since been singing praises to God and leading in songs of worship. He noted that Chief Igbinedion had received the Holy Spirit and now speaks and prays in other tongues.
Reflecting on his relationship with the Benin chief, Pastor Oyakhilome described him as “the most excellent, most elegant, and most humble man that I have ever met.”
“I am praying that we, looking at you and receiving so much from you, will take what you have imparted to the world, because I was especially touched by you,” he said. “Today, I have been seriously impacted by you. I did not just receive an award – I received much love from you.”
The televangelist expressed gratitude for the honour, saying his heart was full of joy. He also commended Chief Igbinedion for establishing the university and for his enduring legacy in education and healthcare.
The convocation ceremony was attended by dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond, with many paying tribute to both the Esama of Benin and Pastor Chris Oyakhilome for their respective contributions to society.
