Evangelist John Igo Begha is a Nigerian gospel musician and traditional Tiv trumpeter from Mbagen, Mbaleva, Mbazomon in Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State. He is widely known for pioneering the integration of the Tiv traditional trumpet into Christian worship and for his long career spanning secular cultural performances and gospel evangelism. Over the years, he has become recognized both as a custodian of Tiv musical heritage and as a gospel evangelist who employs indigenous instruments in church ministry.
John Igo Begha was born in Mbagen, Mbazomon, Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State. Due to the absence of formal education and official birth records in his early years, his exact date of birth is unknown. He did not attend school and grew up within a traditional Tiv setting where cultural performances formed an important part of communal life.
He later married multiple wives in accordance with customary practice. Although he was at one time married to seven wives, four remain with him. He has numerous children.
Begha’s career as a trumpeter began during the political era of Joseph Sarwuan Tarka, when youth groups in Mbagen actively participated in cultural performances. His first encounter with the Tiv trumpet occurred when Orshio Adaaker, a local performer, lodged in his family home while accompanying the Gbanyi dance. Fascinated by the instrument, Begha later taught himself to play.
He initially performed with local drumming groups and constructed his own whitish trumpet. His first public performance at Abwa Market attracted attention and marked the beginning of his recognition as a skilled trumpeter. He later performed in Katsina-Ala alongside Sabon Shehu, which expanded his reputation.
Begha also interacted with renowned trumpeters in Gboko, including Orshio Adaaker, who reportedly mentored him in advanced techniques. He performed across various traditional settings, including Swange dance troupes, women’s groups, and local entertainment gatherings. His success in music enabled him to marry his first wife.
After years of secular performance, Begha converted to Christianity following an evangelistic visit by a pastor to his home. Prior to his conversion, he had reportedly avoided church activities. Upon embracing Christianity, he abandoned secular engagements and redirected his musical talent toward gospel ministry.
He introduced the Tiv trumpet into church worship, an uncommon practice at the time. Despite initial resistance from church members, he defended its use by citing biblical encouragement to praise God with various instruments. Over time, his trumpet ministry gained acceptance and popularity.
Begha later joined the gospel music troupe New Jerusalem, where he became its principal trumpeter. Through this platform, he toured extensively across Nigeria, ministering through music. He also mentored several younger trumpeters, including Akende Kur, Lanegh Begha, and Bobo of Logo Local Government Area.
Begha eventually lost his sight following an injury to his eye while working on his orchard. Medical examination at Mkar Christian Hospital reportedly revealed damage to his optical nerves. Despite complete vision loss, he continued performing with the assistance of fellow troupe members.
His blindness did not halt his ministry. He remained active in gospel performances and public evangelism, becoming a symbol of perseverance within his community.
Begha specializes in traditional Tiv trumpet forms, including laketa and gida, emphasizing technical mastery and cultural authenticity. He advocates for youth participation in cultural preservation and encourages the integration of positive cultural practices into Christian worship.
He has performed in several Nigerian cities including Lagos, Jos, Calabar, and Yola during both his secular and gospel phases.
Evangelist John Igo Begha is regarded within Tiv communities as both a cultural custodian and gospel innovator. His kinsmen and audiences have expressed appreciation for his contributions, particularly his resilience despite blindness.
Through mentorship, performances, and advocacy, he has contributed to sustaining Tiv trumpet traditions while redefining their role within contemporary Christian worship.
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