In a bid to promote health and community well-being, Nigerians with cataracts are set to receive free screening and surgical treatment as part of the celebrations marking the 80th birthday of the Presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), Dr. Mike Okonkwo.

The initiative aims to restore vision and improve the quality of life for over 500 affected individuals across Lagos.

Potential beneficiaries are encouraged to pick up registration forms at TREM International Headquarters in Obanikoro and all branch offices across Lagos or complete their registration online at bit.ly/bmo500eyes. Dr. Okonkwo’s charitable gesture underscores his commitment to community health and human development.

According to a statement signed by the chairman of the committee in charge, Rev Chinedu Nkere, the free cataract surgery scheduled to take place at the Eye Foundation in Ikorodu, Lagos, will see Nigerians with clouding of the eye’s natural lens — commonly known as cataract — receive free screening, followed by surgical intervention where necessary.

“Cataract causes clouding of the eye lens, leading to blurry or hazy vision,” explained Dr. Adebayo Olaleye, an ophthalmologist. “The surgery is crucial as it restores eyesight, reduces the risk of falls and accidents, enhances independence, and improves color perception. It’s a simple but vitally important procedure that can change lives.”

Celebrating a visionary leader

The activities to honor Dr. Mike Okonkwo’s 80th birthday extend beyond health. The central event is the 2025 Mike Okonkwo Annual Lecture Series themed “The Nigeria of Our Dream: Today’s Reality and a Responsible Pathfinder”, scheduled for September 4th at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos. The lecture will be delivered by Nigeria’s former Vice-President, Prof. Yemi Osibajo, with Major-General Ike Nwachukwu serving as chairman.

This prestigious lecture series has previously featured distinguished Nigerians such as Prof. Pat Utomi, Commodore Ebitu Ukiwe, Chief Folake Sholanke SAN, and others, with notable guest speakers including Prof. Mike Ozekhome, Mr. Femi Falana, and Dr. Dora Akunyili.

Football tournament as a cultural highlight

Another major highlight is the opening of the 2025 Mike Okonkwo Football Tournament, set to kick off at the Nigerian Institute of Sports (NIS) in Surulere on June 14th. Featuring 36 male teams and 8 female teams, totaling 44 grassroots clubs, this competition aims to promote youth engagement and sports development. The tournament’s finals are scheduled for August 30th at the Yaba College of Technology Sports Complex, making it the 20th edition of the longstanding event.

A life dedicated to service and leadership

Dr. Mike Okonkwo, a renowned clergyman with over 50 years of service, has significantly impacted Nigeria and the world through his ministry, humanitarian work, and advocacy for balanced Christianity. His ministry spans diverse initiatives including prison outreach, medical missions, vocational training, scholarship programs, and efforts to promote peace—most notably his role in mediating peace during the Ogbunike communal clash.

He is also the founder of the Empowerment for the Less Privileged (ELP) Foundation and convenes the Communion of Covenant Ministers International (CCMI). Married to Bishop Peace Okonkwo, he is blessed with a daughter and numerous spiritual children worldwide.

A leader of compassion and vision

Reverend Chinedu Nkere, Chairman of the BMO @80 Committee, expressed the committee’s excitement about the upcoming celebrations, emphasizing Bishop Okonkwo’s exemplary leadership and dedication: “His life has inspired millions across the globe. These activities are our way of celebrating his legacy and continuing his mission of service, community development, and faith.”

“Sports is a powerful tool for youth development,” said Coach Samuel Williams, one of the tournament organizers. “This competition inspires discipline, teamwork, and excellence among young Nigerians, reflecting Bishop Mike Okonkwo’s dedication to nurturing future leaders.”

A Life of Dedication

Born in Nigeria, Dr. Mike Okonkwo graduated from the Morris Cerrullo School of Ministry and Covington Theological Seminary in the United States. An author, conference speaker, and influential televangelist, he has impacted millions globally. As the founder of the Empowerment for the Less Privileged (ELP) Foundation, he has been actively involved in alleviating poverty and providing scholarship opportunities for talented but underprivileged students.

Bishop Okonkwo is a husband to Bishop Peace Okonkwo and father to Rev. Uche Kachi-Asugha, among many others he continues to mentor both in Nigeria and beyond.

A Leader with a Heart for Humanity

His leadership extends into several ministries focused on outreach, social development, and interfaith peacebuilding. “His life demonstrates that true leadership is service,” remarked Lagos-based pastor, Rev. Emeka Nwosu. “His efforts have created ripples of positive change in countless lives.”

As Nigeria approaches a new chapter characterized by hope and resilience, the celebrations in honor of Bishop Mike Okonkwo serve as a rallying point for communal progress, spiritual renewal, and societal development.