Nigeria’s gospel music community has lost several of its voices in 2026, with the deaths of established singers whose music reached audiences through church services, gospel concerts and film soundtracks. Each built a career in a different part of the industry, contributing to the sounds and songs that have shaped Nigerian gospel music over the years.
Here are five Nigerian gospel artistes who died in 2026.

1. Bunmi Akinnaanu-Adeoye (Omije Ojumi)

Bunmi Akinnaanu-Adeoye, popularly known as Omije Ojumi, died on 12 January 2026 at a hospital in Lagos. She was 46. The family announced her death through a statement shared by a colleague in the gospel music industry.
She became widely known for her song Omije Ojumi, which found an audience among Yoruba-speaking Christians. Her music often centred on faith, prayer and dependence on God. Beyond recording, Akinnaanu was an evangelist who ministered at church programmes and religious gatherings. Her death drew tributes from fans and fellow gospel artistes, many of whom remembered her for her music and commitment to ministry.

2. Taiwo Adegbodu

Taiwo Adegbodu, one half of the gospel music duo Adegbodu Twins, died on 1 March 2026. He performed alongside his twin brother, Kehinde, and the pair became familiar names in Yoruba gospel music following the release of their debut album, Faratimi (Lean on Me), in 1999.
The duo went on to record songs including Shower Your Blessing, Emi Mimo and Igbagbo Dun. Their music combined Christian messages with Yoruba musical traditions, earning them a following among gospel music audiences. Taiwo’s death was confirmed by fellow gospel singer Esther Igbekele and the duo’s official social media page. The cause of death was not disclosed in the initial reports.

3. Toun Soetan

Veteran gospel singer Toun Soetan died in March 2026 at the age of 73. Born Racheal Olatoun Soetan, she was one of the pioneering figures in Nigeria’s gospel music scene, with a career spanning more than four decades.
Her songs included Train Up Your Child and Darling Jesus, which reflected her emphasis on Christian teachings and worship. Before dedicating herself fully to music ministry, Soetan worked as a teacher for 16 years. She later continued her work in education alongside her musical activities. News of her death prompted tributes from fellow gospel artistes, including Woli Agba and Peter Olaniyi, who acknowledged her influence on the gospel music community.

4. Onos Brisibi

Onos Brisibi, a gospel singer and songwriter whose voice featured on several Nigerian film soundtracks, died on 23 March 2026 at the age of 55. Her death followed a prolonged illness, according to reports. Her cousin, actor Richard Mofe-Damijo, confirmed the news in a tribute.
Brisibi contributed vocals to soundtracks for films including Domitilla and Blood Money, productions that became familiar to Nigerian audiences during Nollywood’s early growth. She also worked with musicians such as Lagbaja, Daniel Wilson and the late Sammie Okposo. Although she maintained a relatively low public profile, her work connected gospel music with Nigerian film and popular music, leaving a contribution that extended beyond the church.

5. Olayemi Bayonile Bolaji (Toluwanisings)

Olayemi Bayonile Bolaji, known professionally as Toluwanisings, died in the early hours of 14 October 2026. His family announced his death on 15 October, describing him as a beloved husband, family member and gospel minister. He was 41.
Toluwanisings was known for energetic praise songs that blended contemporary gospel sounds with Yoruba influences. His recordings included Eleda, I’m Not Alone, A Very Big God and Unreserved Praise. His death prompted tributes from fans, colleagues and entertainers, including comedian Woli Agba and filmmaker Funke Akindele. The family did not disclose the cause of death and said funeral arrangements would be announced in due course.