The question of what my story is has recently come up, and its been tasked to me to share some insight on what makes me…ME

As a child, I grew up in Nigeria, Africa. I grew up a military brat, with three other siblings and hard working parents. The nature of their individual careers provided some measure of comfort and influence in society. Mom, an accountant and successful entrepreneur in the finance industry and Dad, a Lawyer and high ranking officer in the Nigerian military, with a very bright career future.

My Nigeria was very different than for some others I expect. I had experiences of military escorts and motorcades, often-unrestricted access, a circle of friends with just as much influence, if not more. Driving on public streets at the age of twelve, not sanctioned by my parents, but what they did not know did not hurt them…I think. 🙂

I loved growing up in Nigeria. I love the memories of being  able to run around without parent supervision seeking out adventure where I could find it.  Even in my own twisted way, I would steal money from my parents in small amounts to support local friends that were poor and would have to hawk goods to provide for their families. Playing soccer barefooted on my neighborhood streets with the large number of neighborhood kids was a treat; I grew in my appreciation for community, the love of competition and a good challenge.

Growing up, I directly experienced aspects of turmoil and riots against the military government that led to statewide lock-downs and curfews. Although in a small measure, I have seen and experienced first hand the hurt, anger and pain demonstrated in an uprising. This is an experience that has in more ways helped to define me than I choose to believe.

During my early teen years, my dad, again in the height of his career was falsely accused of being a part of senior officers that organized a coup d’�tat against the sitting president of the country; An event that radically changed the course of my life, as I knew it.

In a split second, I saw my dad go from the top of his game to almost nothing, stripped of everything, and in that same second, my mother and I were faced with having to abandon all to begin living the lives of fugitives. Yep, I was a fugitive, and for all I knew, Tommy Lee Jones was fast on our heels :p …It all seems like a lifetime ago.

For the next few weeks, we lived an incredible story, where our Christian community took us in and at great risk to themselves, moved us from home to home over the Holiday period as in the days of the Underground Railroad.

Once across the border with Nigeria behind us, and me pretty sick with Malaria, we re-connected with my dad in Ghana, taking some time to get me well. We eventually made our way up to the United States through a series of events God had already set in place – story for another time – starting life all over again, with an unreal experience behind, but still with us.

I saw my dad in humility take on night security jobs, a sight that challenged and rocked me to my core. It had me questioning God’s love, justice and whole character. My parents love Him and serve Him, why this, why now? 

My parents, almost in their fifties, closing in on retirement seemed to loose EVERYTHING, and I did not get it. My mom lost her finance company, her life work, and I saw her walk and respond humbly in grace. My dad gave me an example to mimic on what a man looks like. They are my heroes for many reasons, but really because I am still challenged by their humility and response – even though this might be the first time they hear about it. Yea, I guess there is still a lot of pride God is working out of me.

I since graduated as a Mechanical Design Engineer and have been fortunate to serve for a few years as a Project Manager and Mechanical Design Engineer gaining some real world experience.

In one of my many moments of soul searching and seeking God, He led me on the World Race, reminding me that he wanted more for and from me, that… even if I never go on another missions trip again, the way I would live my life moving forward would never be the same again. I left my company and somewhat gave up my life in obedience to his call. Its been a period of challenges, perseverance and growth, and would not trade it for all the security and comfort or even all the tea in China.

All these experiences and more have shaped and help define my views, perspective and overall approach to life. It’s given me a healthy appreciation for Nigeria, its people and the trials that often plague the country. I see a little clearer than I ever saw before. I’ve grown a heart of compassion that is stirring ideas to impact people in others nations just like it. Through it all, I have a deep appreciation for where I am and the opportunities open to me, to do more than I ever could before for Jesus’ kingdom.

I am a soldier, and I will influence this world for His Glory.