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Nigerian female Gospel act, Bouqui, recently had her song ‘Celebrate’ ranked among the top 30 Gospel songs in the world. In this exclusive chat with Connect Nigeria, she explains the feeling that comes with the honour of being internationally recognized.

CN: How do you feel to have your song among the Top 30 gospel songs in the world in 2013?

Bouqui: I gotta tell you it was like the best new year gift ever. It is rewarding to know that in a world where all is turning upside down, where all the rules and laws are reversed, there are still few people that take time out to recognise hard work and talent; especially as they are not Nigerians. I don’t even know them; but really most important of all is the GRACE FACTOR. I’m grateful to God.

CN: This means Nigerian gospel acts and songs are getting recognition internationally. How can the gospel acts sustain this recognition and consolidate on it?

Bouqui: I’ve been on tour for the past six months in the United States. I did 21 states; it was crazy. I’m still in the States, but the twist when it comes to me and what I do is this; it’s not a case of trying to be a Nigerian artist breaking into the international scene. It comes off like that but it is much more than recognition. It’s just as simple as you making yourself available to the person who sent you. So it’s not a game of fame or milestones. Those are perks. The crux is reaching out to a dying generation and making them see that they can be Christian and still cool. But you have to prove that to God. Intimacy, assignment and provision. When you get your vision in the place of intimacy with God, providence for the vision comes. Provision; you can’t sing successfully about a God you don’t know.

CN: As a gospel act, what are your plans for the year 2014 concerning music and your personal life?

Bouqui: Last year I released a double CD; ‘Marks of a General’ and ‘Eve of Independence’, but doors opened immediately so I couldn’t really promote it in Nigeria. So I’m coming home to that to shoot a couple of videos and watch it pan out. As for the rest of the plans, keep your ears to the ground.