“My Story Proves That Failure Is Never Final” — Revd. Timothy A. Sonde

From Seven Years of WASSCE Setbacks to a Doctoral Dream

For seven consecutive years, Revd. Timothy A. Sonde, today the Lead Pastor of Redeemed Baptist Church, Oke Aro, sat for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) without success. To many observers, it appeared to be a clear verdict on his future. But what people called failure, God was shaping into a testimony.

In a society where academic success often determines self-worth, repeated failure can crush dreams and silence hope. Revd. Sonde bore the weight of disappointment, ridicule, and rejection, yet he refused to surrender his destiny to examination results. Each failed attempt tested his resolve, but none could extinguish his faith or determination.

Rather than give up, he pressed on—guided by a deep conviction that delay is not denial. His perseverance paid off when he gained admission to pursue the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE), marking the first major turning point in his academic journey. What once seemed unreachable suddenly became attainable.

Driven by a growing passion for learning and ministry, he went on to earn a Bachelor of Theology (B.Th), laying a solid foundation for both intellectual and spiritual leadership. His academic pursuit continued as he obtained two Master’s degrees, breaking through barriers that once stood tall before him.

Today, Revd. Timothy A. Sonde is writing yet another chapter of triumph as a PhD candidate, a journey that stands in sharp contrast to the seven years of academic struggle that once defined his story.

Beyond the certificates and titles, his life sends a powerful message to young people and anyone weighed down by repeated setbacks: failure is an event, not an identity. Exams do not determine destiny, and time does not limit purpose. What matters most is the courage to rise after every fall.

As a pastor, scholar, and mentor, Revd. Sonde’s journey continues to inspire countless lives, reminding the world that perseverance, faith, and consistency can turn years of disappointment into a lifetime of impact.

Indeed, his story is living proof that those who refuse to give up will always rise.

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