Benson Idahosa (part 5)

Idahosa Commissioned to Build a University

Professor Don Petri, a respected educationist from Oral Roberts University, had helped establish several universities worldwide. God told him his work was not done—he would build another called Christian Faith University. While shopping in the U.S., he came across Benson Idahosa’s biography, Fire in His Bones, and discovered that Idahosa had received the same divine instruction to build a university with that very name.

Excited, Don Petri reached out to Idahosa, and soon they met to discuss the vision. Although unsure how such a massive project would unfold, Idahosa had already acquired a large piece of land—an “evil forest” filled with over 100 traditional shrines—which he named the University Site.

On August 5, 1992, God woke him at 4:00 a.m., reminding him of past fulfilled visions, then said, “Now I am telling you to build a university, and I will see it come to pass.” The next day, Idahosa called three ministers—Rev. Prof. John Okhuoya, Rev. Prof. Vincent Iyawe, and Rev. Michael Okagbare—to begin the project. They formed the pioneering committee for what would become Benson Idahosa University (BIU).

During the dedication on September 12, 1992, Idahosa declared, “Before God gives a vision, He already lays a blueprint for its fulfillment.” He envisioned a university built on biblical foundations yet academically excellent, producing students “who would be gifts to their generation.” Emphasizing quality over quantity, he said, “When God gives a vision and commission, He makes provision.”

He began with only $1,000, saying, “The Lord is telling me now is the time to start the Benson Idahosa University.” His desire was to raise leaders with moral standards and divine purpose—students who would impact nations.

The World Will Get Up for You

In the late 1970s, T.L. and Daisy Osborn missed their flight after a crusade in Benin. Idahosa rushed them to the airport, where the plane was already taxiing. He waved it down, boarded, and announced, “Two of you will get off now so God’s servants can board.”

After a tense silence, a young man named Aliko Dangote and his assistant stood up. Idahosa blessed him, saying, “The world will get up for you. My God will take your business beyond Africa and bless you beyond measure.” Today, Dangote is among the richest men in the world—a living testimony to the prophetic word, fulfilling 2 Chronicles 20:20: “Believe in the Lord your God, so shall you be established; believe His prophets, so shall you prosper.