Humble Beginnings
Benson Andrew Idahosa was born on September 11th, 1938, into a poor, non-Christian family in Benin, Nigeria. Frail from birth, he was once abandoned at a rubbish heap by his father, John, who presumed him dead. Hours later, his cries drew his mother, Sarah, back to rescue him. He survived, but his childhood was marked by poverty, rejection, and harsh discipline from relatives.
Denied schooling until the age of 14, Benson worked as a servant and later pushed goods in a wheelbarrow at the market to earn a living. Despite back-breaking labor and fatigue, he held onto hope for a better future. His determination stood out—he branded his cart “Opel” so traders could identify him easily, and soon became known for reliability and speed.
Striving for Education and Survival
Still, long nights of exhaustion made him restless. “I must do something about this condition,” he thought, and he began selling newspapers in addition to market work. Alongside these struggles, he pursued education relentlessly. He attended Salvation Army and Methodist schools, then, through correspondence with London Benneth College, earned diplomas in Business Administration and Office Management. While working at Bata Shoe Company, he rose to a supervisory role, unknowingly being prepared for greater leadership.
Benson Accepts Christ and Called to Ministry
Benson’s encounter with Christ came unexpectedly. One Sunday afternoon, while playing football near a Salvation Army church, he mischievously aimed the ball at Pastor Akno through a window. On the sixth attempt, the ball struck him instead, knocking him flat. The pastor rushed out, prayed, and Benson was instantly healed. Deeply shaken, he joined the small congregation, becoming its first Bini member.
After his conversion, Benson read the Gospel of John and began sharing Christ with his friends. Hungry for more, he later received the baptism of the Holy Spirit and began preaching with boldness. His passion grew as he witnessed God’s reality.
In 1968, after his father’s death, Benson had a life-changing encounter when God’s presence filled his room at night. A voice spoke: “I have called you that you might take the gospel around the world in my name. Preach the gospel, and I will confirm My Word with signs following.” Benson fell to his knees, surrendering: “Lord, wherever you want me to go, I will go.”
To be continued…
Tale Tuesday 147
Date: 16th September, 2025
Title: : Benson Idahosa (Part 1)
Source: Africa God’s Generals The Soul Winners
Author: Eddie Sempala
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