The ancient and historic city of Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, will come alive on July 14 and 19 as the gospel music community, the broader Christian
The ancient and historic city of Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, will come alive on July 14 and 19 as the gospel music community, the broader Christian fold, and eminent personalities from across Nigeria and beyond gather to celebrate the revered gospel minister, Evangelist Dr. Bukola Rachael Akinade, popularly known as Senwele Jesu, as she marks her 50th birthday. The celebration also highlights her renewed commitment to taking gospel music to even greater heights post-jubilee.
According to a statement issued by the Golden Jubilee Celebration Event Coordinator, Mr. Seyi Sokoya, the two-in-one event is designed to honour both the remarkable life journey and ministerial exploits of Senwele Jesu, a household name in gospel music to the glory of God.
Evangelist Dr. Bukola Rachael Akinade
“Senwele Jesu is a respected gospel music brand. She has remained steadfast and consistent in her calling to populate the Kingdom with her God-given talent. Reaching this golden age is a testament to special grace, and she deserves to be celebrated in grand style,” said Sokoya, a renowned entertainment journalist.
The Golden Jubilee Celebration will kick off on July 14 with a music festival tagged “50th Jubilee Praise” at Christ Apostolic Church, Eagle’s Wings Assembly, Wakajaye Road, Iyana Church, Ibadan.
The celebration will feature electrifying performances from top gospel ministers including Tope Alabi, Bisi Alawiye, Laolu Gbenjo, Ife Odogiyon, and Dare Justified. The celebrant’s husband, Pastor Joseph Akinade, will serve as host.
The grand finale comes up on July 19, beginning with a Thanksgiving Service at the same church venue by 10:00 a.m., followed by a grand reception at Jogor Event Centre, Liberty Road, Ibadan.
One of Nigeria’s foremost female ministers and co-founder of Agape Christian Ministries, Bishop Funke Felix-Adejumo, will deliver the keynote message at the Thanksgiving Service.
“We are thankful for the grace upon Senwele Jesu’s life. Her music and ministry have touched lives across the globe. This celebration is not just a birthday; it is a recognition of her commitment, service, and enduring impact in the gospel music ministry over the past 25 years,” Sokoya concluded.
Evangelist Akinade shared her reflections: “I am not celebrating myself, but God’s faithfulness, my survival, and His grace upon my life. The beginning was very rough and tough because nobody believed in my vision – not even my family. They were skeptical about my future in music. My father, of blessed memory – my best friend – hated music with a passion. Some churches rejected me because my kind of music was different. But God will always have His way when His calling is truly upon your life.”
Evangelist Olubukola Rachael Akinade, known widely as Senwele Jesu, is a renowned Nigerian gospel musician celebrated for her significant contributions to the genre. Her unique blend of traditional and cultural influences has given her a distinct edge in the gospel music ministry.
She is known for her spiritual depth, disciplined lifestyle, and passionate advocacy for decency in society. Born in 1975, the “Queen of Gospel” turned 50 on July 14, 2025, and remains an elegant, vibrant, and highly sought-after gospel minister.
Her musical journey, which marked 20 years in 2020, has spanned over two decades. The ongoing celebration has drawn gospel music veterans, notable clerics, dignitaries, and fans from far and wide. She has released numerous albums and singles that have resonated with both Christian and non-Christian audiences globally. Her dedication and talent have earned her recognition as one of Nigeria’s top gospel artists.
Senwele Jesu is also the CEO of Bukola Akinade Music Ministry (BAMM) and the visionary behind the non-governmental organization, Women of Purpose Network (WOPNET). She also runs an interdenominational prayer programme for sisters and women titled “My Seed, My Future”, which has been transforming lives since its launch five years ago.
She is married to Pastor Akinlolu Akinade, Assembly Pastor at CAC Eagle’s Wings. Their marriage, which began in 2003, is blessed with three children. Notably, Pastor Akinlolu stepped back from his own music career to support his wife’s thriving ministry.
Senwele Jesu remains a regular feature at major gospel events, revivals, and church programmes. She is known for uplifting souls and spreading the gospel through music. She also hosts two major annual concerts: the mid-year “Fiyinfolu” and the end-of-year interdenominational “Praise Banquet”. Both events attract large audiences and are now landmark gatherings in Nigeria’s gospel scene.
“Kudos to Senwele Jesu, who has not only used her musical talents to propagate the gospel but has also remained a committed advocate against immorality, especially among the youth,” a guest noted.
Over the past two and a half decades in ministry, she has championed a bold campaign against indecent dressing in both the church and wider society – a cause that has significantly influenced norms and inspired a cultural shift within her circles.
As she reaches the milestone age of 50, Evangelist Bukola Akinade’s life and career stand as a powerful testament to her unwavering faith, resilience, and excellence in ministry.
Her story is one of grace, grit, and glory – a harmonious blend of personal dedication and professional brilliance, inspiring many within and beyond the gospel music community.
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