Nigeria’s gospel music industry has lost several singers in 2026, including established artistes whose songs reached audiences through church services, gospel concerts and film soundtracks.
These musicians made distinct contributions to the industry through their recordings, performances and ministry.
Here are five Nigerian gospel artistes who died in 2026.
1. Taiwo Adegbodu
Taiwo Adegbodu, one half of the Nigerian gospel duo Adegbodu Twins, died on 1 March 2026. He performed alongside his twin brother, Kehinde Adegbodu, and the pair gained prominence in Yoruba gospel music after releasing their debut album, Faratimi (Lean on Me), in 1999.
The duo subsequently released several songs, including Shower Your Blessing, Emi Mimo and Igbagbo Dun. Their music combined Christian messages with Yoruba musical traditions, earning them a loyal following among gospel music enthusiasts.
His death was confirmed by fellow gospel singer Esther Igbekele and the duo’s official social media page. Initial reports did not disclose the cause of death.
Months later, Kehinde shared details of the circumstances surrounding his twin brother’s sudden death, prompting reactions on social media.
According to Kehinde, Taiwo had shown no signs of illness before the incident. He said his brother visited his room at about 11 pm, complaining of chest pain.
Kehinde explained that his wife offered to accompany them to the hospital, but Taiwo reportedly declined, assuring her that they would return shortly.
He said they conversed normally on their way to the hospital. Taiwo even told the estate’s security personnel not to close the gate because they would not be away for long.
Upon arrival, Taiwo reportedly walked into the hospital and sat at the reception while Kehinde parked the car.
According to Kehinde, his brother informed a doctor about the chest pain, and preparations were made to examine him. However, while seated, Taiwo suddenly leaned backwards, giving the impression that he had fallen asleep.
“I thought he had slept off, so I stepped aside to make a call. While I was still on the call, I heard the doctor shouting his name and hitting his chest. That was when I realised he had passed away,” Kehinde recounted.
2. Bunmi Akinnaanu-Adeoye (Omije Ojumi)
Bunmi Akinnaanu, popularly known as Omije Ojumi, died on 12 January 2026 at a hospital in Lagos. She was 46.
Her family announced her death in a statement shared by a colleague in the gospel music industry.
She became widely recognised for her song Omije Ojumi, which resonated with Yoruba-speaking Christians. Her music frequently centred on faith, prayer and dependence on God.
Beyond music, Akinnaanu was an evangelist who ministered at church programmes and religious gatherings.
Her death prompted tributes from fans and fellow gospel artistes, many of whom celebrated her music and commitment to ministry.
Lanre Alewilese, a close friend and colleague, later spoke about the singer’s health struggles in the weeks before her death. He said her condition had deteriorated significantly, leaving her unable to open her eyes or speak for weeks.
Speaking in Yoruba, Alewilese described the period as one of the most difficult experiences he had witnessed. He explained that he had kept her condition from the public because there were no positive updates and he did not want to cause unnecessary distress.
He said, “In the final weeks leading up to Omije Ojumi’s death, she was unable to open her eyes or speak for weeks. I intentionally kept her condition a secret from the public because there was no positive update. I didn’t want to worry anyone unnecessarily. She was struggling, and it was heartbreaking to see her like that.”
Separately, reports emerged of an incident during the late singer’s burial ceremony on a Monday, when a man claiming to be the biological father of her child reportedly appeared in an emotional phone call that left mourners shocked.
3. Toun Soetan
Veteran Nigerian gospel singer Toun Soetan died in March 2026 at the age of 73.
Born Racheal Olatoun Soetan, she was among the pioneers of Nigeria’s gospel music industry, with a career spanning more than four decades.
Some of her notable songs include Train Up Your Child and Darling Jesus, which reflected her commitment to Christian teachings and worship.
Before dedicating herself fully to music ministry, Soetan worked as a teacher for 16 years. She later continued her involvement in education alongside her musical career.
Following reports of her death, fellow gospel artistes, including Woli Agba and Peter Olaniyi, paid tribute to her, acknowledging her contributions and lasting influence on Nigeria’s gospel music community.
4. Onos Brisibi
Nigerian gospel singer and songwriter Onos Brisibi, whose voice featured on several film soundtracks, died on 23 March 2026 at the age of 55.
Her death reportedly followed a prolonged illness. Her cousin, actor Richard Mofe-Damijo, confirmed the news in a tribute.
Brisibi contributed vocals to the soundtracks of Nigerian films, including Domitilla and Blood Money, which became familiar to audiences during Nollywood’s early growth.
She also collaborated with musicians such as Lagbaja, Daniel Wilson and the late Sammie Okposo.
Although she maintained a relatively low public profile, Brisibi contributed to both gospel music and the Nigerian film industry. Her work spanned gospel, film soundtracks and popular music, extending her musical legacy beyond the church.
5. Toluwanisings
Olayemi Bayonile Bolaji, professionally known 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 his energetic praise songs, which 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 details of his funeral arrangements would be announced in due course.
Meanwhile, reports emerged about the circumstances surrounding his death. His personal assistant, Bolagbo, claimed that the singer suddenly slumped before they attempted to take him to hospital.
Speaking in an interview on the morning of Thursday, 15 October, Bolagbo said Toluwanisings had performed at an event the previous day before returning home.
According to the personal assistant, the singer appeared to be in good health on the morning of Wednesday, 14 October, with no obvious signs of illness before he suddenly slumped.
Bolagbo claimed they took the singer to between seven and eight hospitals but were unable to secure the medical attention they sought. He alleged that some facilities cited a doctors’ strike, while others reportedly declined to attend to the gospel minister.
The personal assistant said they had done everything possible to save Toluwanisings and had also prayed throughout the ordeal. He expressed sadness over the outcome, saying they had tried their best to help the singer.