Popular Nigerian entertainer Bankole Wellington, better known as Banky W, has revealed how his unsuccessful political ambition in 2023 contributed to a renewed understanding of his purpose and eventual entry into pastoral ministry.
The singer, actor and entrepreneur shared the reflection while marking one year as a pastor, explaining that losing the election was an emotionally difficult experience that forced him to reconsider his future.
Banky W had contested for the Eti-Osa Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives under the Peoples Democratic Party during the 2023 general election.
He said the defeat broke his heart and left him searching for direction after the election had ended.
According to the entertainer, he was uncertain whether to focus on leadership and politics, continue developing his entertainment career, expand his business interests or dedicate himself to ministry.
He explained that he sought God’s guidance, asking what path he should follow and what role he was expected to play in the years ahead.
However, Banky W said he eventually came to understand that his different interests did not necessarily require him to abandon one for another.
He noted that he had mistakenly viewed ministry and his professional pursuits as separate paths when they could instead complement one another.
The singer described his experience as a realisation that his responsibilities were expanding, allowing him to combine his work in entertainment and business with pastoral service.
He said he remained committed to music, filmmaking and entrepreneurship while embracing his responsibilities as a pastor and professor.
Looking back on the past year, Banky W said the election did not produce the result he had hoped for, but the experience helped him appreciate that his future could unfold differently from his original plans.
He reflected that setbacks could become opportunities for personal growth and a fresh understanding of one’s calling.
The entertainer marked the anniversary with gratitude, asking his followers to celebrate the milestone with him.
His testimony offers a glimpse into how he navigated disappointment after the 2023 election and subsequently embraced pastoral ministry without giving up his established professional interests.
