American Missionary Honored As Chief In Nigeria For Community Impact

By; MIKE ODEH JAMES, Kaduna

An American missionary and humanitarian has been honored with a traditional chieftaincy title in Nigeria, in recognition of his contributions to community development, youth empowerment, and spiritual outreach in one of the country’s culturally rich regions.

Byron Whetstone, President of Heartland International Ministry (HIM), headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, was conferred the title of “Kpasi” — meaning “Shining Star” — by His Royal Highness, Sir Ishaku Yari (Sa-Gbagyi I), Etsu Chikun, the paramount traditional ruler of the Gbagyi people, during a colourful ceremony held at the monarch’s palace in Sabon Tasha, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State, North-Central Nigeria.

The ceremony, which took place on Friday, September 17, 2025, brought together community leaders, government representatives, and members of the clergy to honor Whetstone’s longstanding commitment to humanitarian and faith-based projects across Gbagyi land.

“The Kingdom of Gbagyi has recognized the good works of Heartland International Ministry,” declared Etsu Chikun during the conferment. “Mr. Whetstone and his organization have provided our youth with vocational skills, established theological training centers, drilled boreholes for clean water, and helped spread the Christian faith. He has truly become a shining light among us.”

Heartland International Ministry has been active in Kaduna State for several years, partnering with local leaders to implement sustainable development projects aimed at uplifting underserved communities.

In his acceptance speech, Whetstone expressed gratitude and a renewed commitment to the region.

“It is an extraordinary and humbling experience to be honored here in Nigeria by a distinguished and first-class king,” Whetstone said. “Now that I am an honorary chief in Kaduna, I feel a deeper obligation to continue the work — to bring more development, share the gospel, and serve the people of Gbagyi land. Thank you for this great honor.”

The conferment also carried symbolic significance, as Whetstone is now regarded as an honorary indigene of Kaduna State.

Dr. Rev. Sam Magai Albert, Country Director of HIM in Nigeria, emphasized the deeper meaning of the title within both local and international contexts.

“Even back home in Kansas City, we’re known for the Kansas City Chiefs, one of the biggest sports franchises,” Rev. Albert said light-heartedly. “Now our leader is a chief in Nigeria too. It shows how connected we are.”

He continued: “With this title, Chief Whetstone is no longer a guest. He is now a son of the soil, and we are motivated to expand our work — more projects, more skills training, and more outreach in Kaduna State.”

Whetstone’s wife, Mrs. Jerri Whetstone, who accompanied him on her first trip to Nigeria, was deeply touched by the warmth of the people.

“This is my first time in Nigeria,” she said. “The kindness and hospitality of the Gbagyi people have been overwhelming. I am truly grateful for this experience.”

The celebration featured traditional Gbagyi drumming, cultural dances, and prayers, with residents and dignitaries paying tribute to the work HIM has done in transforming lives in the region.

Chieftaincy titles in Nigeria are deeply rooted in history and serve as a recognition of service and excellence, even extending to foreigners who have made lasting impacts in local communities.

With this honor, HIM officials say they plan to launch additional programs in Chikun and other parts of the state — including expanded vocational training centers, community health initiatives, and faith-based outreach.

“This title is not just a ceremony,” said Rev. Albert. “It is a call to greater responsibility.”