My father (Elder “Tailor Etim” as he was fondly called by many people in Ibesikpo-Asutan local government area); was a wonderful man. He was a father, husband, brother, grandfather, great- grandfather and friend to many people. To me he was more than just my father; he was my friend and my hero. I always admired my father and had a great deal of respect for him.

My father was a very hardworking man, strong, loving and gentle. I was very proud of my father and everything that he accomplished. He came from a poor family and built a career out of almost nothing. He went from being a “washer man” (dry-cleaner), to owning a tailoring service workshop that specialized in making men’s Suits and Trousers(pants); convenient stores; transportation service-lorries, taxies and buses; palm produce dealership; multiple real estate establishments. My father taught us a lot about hard work and I worked at some of his business establishments at a young age. I didn’t always enjoy it, but looking back I am happy for the experience.  

Even though my father spent countless hours at his tailoring workshop and managing his other businesses; he made a lot of time for his family especially my mother, and serving the Lord through his deep involvement in the Lutheran church. He was a Deacon “Elder” and help the Pastor preach some sermons.

My father was a very generous man and always willing to help. He was also very wise and you could go to him with any problem. My father taught me a lot about hard work, love for friends and family, appreciation for the gift God has given us and respect for others. To me, Dad’s finest quality was his patience: an inherent ability to listen, to absorb and to offer a point of view based on quiet, measured wisdom. I know that I will be filling big shoes, but I hope that I can continue on his legacy. His successful endeavor to build multi-businesses and maintaining highest ethical standard will always be remembered. I will miss my father more than words can say and will never forget him.

Emanuel Etuks