By Kenneth Chibuogwu Gbandi
It is with immense joy, deep respect, and a profound sense of gratitude that I join the global Nigerian Diaspora community and countless well-wishers to celebrate an exceptional man of God, a true leader, a mentor, and a dear friend, Pastor Ibrahim Abarshi on the occasion of his 60th birthday. Pastor Abarshi is not just a preacher and teacher of the Word but a living testimony of what it means to serve with humility, lead with purpose, and live with compassion. In his various roles serving the Diaspora community, including his time as Vice Chairman of NIDO Netherlands, he is known to embodied true diaspora leadership, pragmatic in approach on all issue, professional in conduct, and uncompromising in values.
Throughout my own four-year tenure at the helm of NIDO Europe, Pastor Abarshi stood out not only as a wise counselor on strategic and policy matters but, most importantly, as a spiritual advisor. His counsel anchored in faith, peace, and reconciliation gave me strength and direction through some of the most defining moments of our diaspora journey. He never shied away from speaking truth to power, yet always did so with a heart inclined to build and not to break. Chose your fight, scale your priorities and follow them methodologically, he will always call out to me.
His commitment to leadership development and mentorship has shaped a generation of emerging diaspora leaders including myself. His training sessions, his calm but firm voice of reason, and his unwavering encouragement were pivotal in making my leadership journey in Europe both unique and successful.
As we set to thank God for his life and legacy, we celebrate not just 60 years of existence, but 60 years of impactful service to the Kingdom of God, to the Nigerian diaspora, and to the broader human family.
Dear Pastor Abarshi, may your next chapter be filled with renewed strength, abundant joy, and even greater impact. You have built bridges, sown seeds, and watered destinies. May you now reap the manifold blessings of your labor.
Happy 60th Birthday, sir.
With deepest respect and admiration,
Kenneth Chibuogwu Gbandi: Nigerian Diaspora Leader, Former Continental Chairman, NIDO Europe; Senatorial Candidate 2023 Nigerian Election and Current Deputy Chairman African Democratic Congress (ADC), Nigeria
