Former presidential spokesperson Femi Adesina has commended Rev. Osaren Emokpae’s latest book, The Pilgrim’s Testament, describing it as a profound exploration of faith, perseverance, and personal growth.
Adesina, who reviewed the work, highlighted its ability to guide readers through life’s challenges with wisdom and inspiration.
Emokpae, who celebrated his 70th birthday at 69, unveiled his autobiography alongside reflections on enduring relationships and key figures who shaped his journey. The milestone event also featured the launch of four books, an achievement Adesina characterised as symbolic.
“It never rains, it pours. That is why Rev. Dr. Osaren Emokpae has released four books at a time to mark his birthday, which we are celebrating today,” Adeshina remarked.
Among the volumes reviewed were The Cradle, Peace, and Visioning, which recount Emokpae’s formative years in Ehor, present-day Edo State. His story chronicles his early childhood, education, experiences during the Nigerian Civil War, and pursuit of higher learning, interwoven with reflections on family and romance.
Emokpae outlined five key motivations for his work: offering guidance for life’s journey, documenting personal history, raising awareness about familial discord after parents’ passing, illustrating the impact of Scripture on his life, and contributing to academic knowledge.
In candid detail, Emokpae recounted his struggles, including overcoming temptations before his spiritual rebirth, and setbacks in business despite his professional accomplishments.
His memoir offers a window into life in Ehor. It touches on polygamy, mysticism, school experiences, farm work, and rubber tapping while emphasising how faith anchored his path.
Peace and Visioning delves into church leadership challenges, reconciliation efforts within the Foursquare organisation, and a decade-long push for peace amid internal conflicts.
“Some peace efforts took 10 years before amity was finally forged,” Emokpae reflected, acknowledging the complexities of peacemaking within church circles and the corporate world.
His journey abroad also takes centre stage. After an unsuccessful relocation attempt in 1974, he later moved successfully. Still, he encountered financial struggles, taking on unconventional jobs—including distributing goods in Peckham Market, London—while his wife was a caregiver to sustain their household.
Dr Folu Ayeni, founder of Tantalizers Plc and event chairman, lauded Emokpae as a steadfast and principled leader. “From start to finish, his priority was always getting the job done,” Ayeni said, commending the author’s discipline and unwavering dedication to his work.