By Isaac Daniel
The ancient and historic city of Ibadan, Oyo State, capital, will come alive on July 14 and 19 as the gospel music community, the Christendom and eminent personalities from across Nigeria and beyond are gathering to celebrate the revered gospel minister, Evangelist Dr. Bukola Rachel Akinade, popularly known as Senwele Jesu, as she marks her 50th birthday and her novel plans to take gospel music to greater heights.
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 the ministerial exploits of Senwele Jesu, a household name in gospel music to the praise and glory of God.
“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,” Sokoya, a celebrated entertainment journalist stated.
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, Oyo State.
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 the host.
Grand finale
The grand finale comes up on July 19, starting 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 in the last 25 years,” Sokoya concluded
Evangelist Akinade
Evangelist Akinade stated that I am not celebrating myself, but God’s faithfulness, my survival and God’s grace upon my life. ” The beginning was very rough and tough, because nobody believed in my vision including my family. They were so skeptical about my future in music. My father, of blessed memory, who happens to be my best friend, hates music like hell. Some Churches rejected me, because my type of music was so different. But God will always have His way, if you have the calling is upon you”, she testified.
Evangelist Olubukola Rachael Akinade, popularly known as Senwele Jesu, is a renowned Nigerian gospel musician celebrated for her significant contributions to gospel music. Her unique blend of traditional and cultural influences has given her an edge in the gospel music ministry.
She has established herself as a spiritual singer with a high level of discipline. She is a passionate advocate for decency in society.
Born in 1975, the Queen of Gospel turned 50 on July 14, 2025, and remains an elegant and sought-after gospel minister.
Senwele Jesu’s musical journey spans over two decades, marking her 20th year in ministry in 2020. The celebration, drew veterans in the gospel ministry, notable clerics, prominent Nigerians, and her fans from far and near. Throughout her career, she has released numerous albums and singles that have resonated with many Christian and non-Christians across the world. Her dedication and talent have earned her recognition as one of the most sought-after gospel musicians in Nigeria.
Senwele Jesu has demonstrated over the years that she offers more than just music.
She is the Chief Executive Officer of the Bukola Akinade Music Ministry (BAMM) and also the driving force behind a non-governmental initiative called the Women of Purpose Network (WOPNET).
Additionally, she has officially established an interdenominational prayer programmme for sisters and women titled, “My Seed, My Future,” which has been positively impacting lives since its launch five years ago.
She is married to Pastor Akinlolu Akinade, the Assembly Pastor of Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Eagles’ Wings. This worship center has experienced remarkable growth through the power of God and divine support.
The Akinades’ union, which began in 2003, has been blessed with three children. Notably, Pastor Akinlolu made the significant decision to step back from his music career to support his wife’s thriving ministry.
Senwele Jesu is a prominent gospel minister known for her performances at major gospel events, revivals, and various church programmes.
She lifts souls and spreads the gospel through her music. This has contributed to her continued relevance and active participation in the gospel music scene.
In addition to her regular engagements, Senwele Jesu hosts two major gospel concerts each year: a mid-year concert, entitled, “Fiyinfolu” and an end-of-year interdenominational praise concert called, “Praise Banquet.”
Both of these praise events are recognized as significant gatherings that attract large crowds to exalt God in a unique way in Nigeria.
“Kudos to Senwele Jesu, who has not only used her musical talents to propagate the gospel but has also remained an ardent advocate against immorality in society, particularly among the youth”, noted.
In two and half decades in the music ministry, she launched a laudable campaign against inappropriate dressing in both society and the church, a vice that has become a significant issue today.
This campaign has truly become a game changer in both the church and society as a whole, as it has addressed the menace and positively impacted people’s lives.
As she attained the milestone age of 50, Evangelist Bukola Akinade’s life and career stand as a testament to her unwavering commitment to her faith and art.
Her journey reflects a harmonious blend of personal dedication and professional excellence, inspiring many within and beyond the gospel music community.