Gospel Star Big Bolaji Laid to Rest in Ibadan Amid Tributes…The city of Ibadan was filled with emotions as family, friends, colleagues, and fans came together to bid a final farewell to one of Nigeria’s most beloved gospel musicians, Bolaji Olarewaju, popularly known as Big Bolaji.
The 50-year-old singer and ordained minister was buried in Ibadan following his sudden death during the Easter weekend, after a brief illness.
His passing has left a deep void in the Nigerian gospel music scene and among those who had been touched by his life and ministry.
Big Bolaji, whose name became synonymous with energetic worship and joyful gospel music, had been a key figure in the genre for over two decades.
Known for his charismatic stage presence and powerful voice, he was more than just a singer — he was a minister who used music to uplift, heal, and inspire.
His signature phrase, “Turn it up,” became an anthem among youth and gospel music lovers across the country.
Through his ministry, he brought the message of hope, faith, and salvation to audiences far beyond church walls, performing at crusades, community events, and even in secular spaces where his sound and message found resonance.
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His journey into music began with the gospel group J’apha, after which he launched a successful solo career that earned him recognition across Nigeria and among the gospel community in Africa.
His influence was particularly strong in the Southwest, where he was based, and where he organized his annual worship event, “Turn It Up With Big Bolaji,” a highly anticipated gathering that brought together gospel artists and worshippers from all walks of life.
The event, held in Ibadan, served not just as a musical experience but as a spiritual revival, a time for reflection and praise.
Beyond music, Bolaji Olarewaju was a man of many parts. He was a trained Estate Surveyor by profession and also a respected broadcaster.
Every Sunday morning, his voice reached thousands through a popular inspirational radio show aired in Ibadan, where he shared messages of encouragement, devotion, and wisdom rooted in Christian values.
Many listeners described his voice as one of comfort, a steady presence that reminded them of God’s promises during difficult times.
Bolaji was also a devoted pastor with the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), where he served for over 19 years.
He was known within the church not only for his musical ministry but also for his leadership and mentorship.
Young gospel musicians and aspiring ministers looked up to him as a role model, someone who combined talent with integrity and faithfulness.
His sudden death came as a shock to many, especially as he had remained active in ministry up until the very end.
Tributes have poured in from across the gospel music community, church leaders, and fans who recall his kindness, his infectious joy, and his unwavering dedication to God’s work.
Many have described him as a vessel who poured himself into the service of others, often without seeking the spotlight for himself.
At the funeral service in Ibadan, emotions ran high as mourners recounted stories of how Big Bolaji had influenced their lives, whether through his songs, his sermons, or his personal encouragement.
Choirs sang his popular songs as a way to honor his memory, and messages of condolence from pastors, fellow artists, and church members highlighted his immense contributions to both music and ministry.
Though he is gone, Big Bolaji’s legacy remains. His music continues to inspire, and the lives he touched stand as a testament to the impact of a man who lived with purpose and passion.
As the final prayers were said at his burial, the crowd rose in one voice to sing his songs, a fitting tribute to a gospel icon whose voice may be silent, but whose message lives on.
