Family members, friends, church leaders, scholars, and well-wishers from across Nigeria and beyond gathered in Jos on Saturday to celebrate the lives, legacy, and ministry of Rev. Prof. Yusufu Turaki and his wife, Dr. Mrs. Deborah Turaki, as they marked their 80th and 70th birthdays respectively.
The event, held at Crispan Suites and Events Centre, Jos, was a celebration of God’s faithfulness and grace in the lives of the couple, whose decades of service to God, the Church, and society have continued to impact generations.
One of the major highlights of the occasion was the unveiling of two books authored by Prof. Turaki titled Religion and Church & Society, reflecting his lifelong commitment to scholarship, Christian thought, and nation-building.
The President of ECWA, Rev. Dr. Ayuba Asheshe, alongside other national executives and leaders of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), attended the celebration and officially unveiled the books in honour of Prof. Turaki’s enduring contributions to theology, Christian leadership, and societal development.
Tributes poured in from distinguished guests who described Prof. Turaki as a man of wisdom, humility, integrity, and unwavering dedication to God and humanity. Many speakers acknowledged his influence as a theologian, teacher, mentor, and voice of moral guidance whose contributions have shaped lives within and outside the Christian community.
Chairman of the occasion, Prof. Jerry Gana, described Prof. Turaki as “a man who has lived a life of light,” praising his devotion to God, academic excellence, and commitment to raising leaders grounded in righteousness and service.
Prof. Gana also celebrated Dr. Mrs. Deborah Turaki for her steadfast support and contributions over the years, describing her as a virtuous woman whose life and service have complemented the impactful ministry of her husband.
Delivering the exhortation, Prof. Danny McCain spoke from Psalm 92:12, reminding attendees that “the righteous shall flourish like the palm tree.” He noted that Prof. Turaki continues to remain fruitful and impactful even in old age through mentorship, scholarship, and wise counsel.
Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, who attended the event alongside other dignitaries, described Prof. Turaki as a reservoir of wisdom, integrity, humility, and unwavering commitment to service to God and humanity.
Speaking on Plateau State’s role in national unity, the Governor said the state has become a place of refuge and peaceful coexistence for people from all parts of the country. He recalled hosting various Middle Belt communities resident in Plateau State last year and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustaining Plateau as the “Home of Peace and Tourism,” where every law-abiding citizen is welcomed.
Governor Mutfwang stressed that “excellence is rooted in righteousness,” adding that when the foundation is right, society can raise God-fearing leaders who will uphold love, justice, and national progress.
The celebration also featured prayers, goodwill messages, reflections on the couple’s journey in ministry and service, and appreciation for their enduring contributions to the Church, society, and national development.
For many attendees, the event was not only a birthday celebration but also a moment to honour a lifetime of faith, scholarship, mentorship, and commitment to building a better society through Christian values and service.