A Reflection on My Father, Rev. Chukwuma Simion Nelson
By Trust Chukwuma
Today, I choose to speak openly about my father — Rev. Chukwuma Simion Nelson of the Assemblies of God Church, Nigeria.
For a long time, I remained silent about him. But now, I feel deeply compelled to honour his memory in my own words. My father was not merely a man of God — he was truly a child of God. There is a difference, and those who knew him will understand. His walk with Christ was marked by sincerity, integrity, and unwavering devotion.
A Life of Ministry and Service
Rev. Nelson pioneered and pastored several Assemblies of God churches across Aba and Abia State, touching countless lives through his ministry. His legacy stands firm in the many congregations he helped establish, including:
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261 Port Harcourt Road, Aba – AGC Ohabiam, where he served faithfully alongside the late Rev. J. N. Nwakanma.
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16/20 Obohia Road – where devoted members such as Bro. Israel Ifeanyichukwu Anyanele, the late Anosike, O.C. Peters, and HRH Eze worshipped under his pastoral care.
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61 Omenazu Avenue – where he ministered to families like Madam Iphie, Benon Carpets, and Chief Anya Awgu Asaa.
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53C Okigwe Road – before relocating to Owerri Aba to lay the foundation for a major Assemblies of God structure. At that time, the late Rev. Uma Ukpai was serving as an evangelist at 39 Osusu under Rev. Iwuogaranya. My father and Dr. Uma Ukpai were close friends from their Scripture Union days in Umule, Aba.
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79 Ibere Street, Aba.
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Enwereji Street, off Ohanku Road.
These are only a few among the more than ten churches he pioneered — including the great AGC Ude-Alike in his hometown.
A Legacy Beyond the Pulpit
Those who encountered him can attest to his strength of character, humility, and pastoral compassion. His legacy continues to speak — not through monuments, but through people.
Even today, his good name opens doors for me — both in Nigeria and abroad. That, in itself, is a powerful testimony of a life lived in faith and honour.
I must also acknowledge Chief Iheanyi Frank Chinasa (Dogo), who stood firmly by my father during his later years. Dogo, your loyalty and kindness will forever be remembered.
His Final Words and Eternal Legacy
Before his passing — which still feels like yesterday — my father often repeated one profound statement:
“The grace of God will never lower the standard of God.”
Those words remain etched in my heart and guide me daily.
Rest well, my father, my hero, Papa Trust.
You live on in my heart, and every 16th of October will remain a sacred day of remembrance — until I too take my leave from this world.
I loved you then.
I love you now.
And I will always love you.
Daddy, your son is doing very well.
“To live in the hearts of those who loved you is never to die.”
— Trust Chukwuma
