The Nigerian gospel music community is in mourning following the death of veteran gospel singer and evangelist Toun Soetan, who passed away on March 13, 2026, at the age of 73.
Renowned for her powerful spiritual messages and enduring worship songs, Soetan devoted several decades to touching lives through music, evangelism, and ministry. Her songs have remained widely sung in churches across Nigeria and beyond.
Below are six quick facts about the late gospel icon:
- Toun Soetan was widely recognised as a gospel singer, songwriter, and evangelist whose ministry spanned many years. Through her music and teachings, she influenced generations of worshippers both in Nigeria and abroad.
- She was born in Lagos around June 18, 1953 or 1954, and grew up in the Beere area of Ibadan. Raised in a large Muslim household—her father reportedly had 28 children—she was originally named Alimat Sadia before embracing Christianity.
- In 1974, she converted from Islam to Christianity after attending a revival service at Oritamefa Baptist Church. The decision reportedly led to rejection from some family members but also marked the start of her lifelong Christian ministry.
- Before dedicating herself fully to ministry, Soetan worked as a trained teacher for about 16 years. She also received education at the University of Ibadan.
- She composed and popularised several well-known gospel songs, including “Darling Jesus,” written in 1987, as well as “Baba E Se,” “Thank You Jesus,” “I’m Born Again,” “Iye Ree,” “Gbe Jesus Ga,” and “Train Up Your Child.” These songs continue to be sung widely in churches.
- Soetan established Trinity World Evangelical Ministry, where she served as a minister and mentor. She was known for teaching about worship and spiritual warfare and strongly believed in free ministration, often emphasising that true evangelism should not be commercialised.
Her passing marks the end of an era for many gospel music lovers, but her songs and ministry legacy continue to inspire believers across generations.