He called giving his life to Christ as the best decision he had ever made.
Before he became widely known for his powerful worship ministrations and soul-lifting gospel songs, late Nigerian gospel singer Olayemi Bayonile Bolaji, popularly known as Toluwanisings, was born into a Muslim family and began his musical journey as a Fuji singer.
His journey from Islam to Christianity, how he encountered Jesus Christ, and the person he credited for bringing him into the limelight are among the remarkable aspects of his life story.
In a resurfaced interview with Nollywood actress Biola Adebayo on her show Talk to B, the late gospel minister opened up about his background, spiritual transformation and rise to fame.
According to him, he was born and raised as a Muslim and was named Sodiq. Like many Yoruba boys, his early exposure to music came through Fuji, a genre deeply rooted in Yoruba culture, through which he developed his vocal skills.
However, his life took a different direction after he encountered Jesus Christ. Toluwanisings described giving his life to Christ as the best decision he had ever made, explaining that the transition went beyond a change of religion to discovering purpose and a calling to use his voice for the gospel.
The late singer also acknowledged the support of his wife, whom he married in September 2021, describing her as a strong pillar in his life and musical journey. He said she stood by him and encouraged him to dedicate his talent fully to gospel music.
Toluwanisings’ breakthrough came in 2021 when popular gospel comedian and minister Woli Agba shared one of his worship videos on social media. The video went viral, bringing him into the spotlight and opening doors for ministrations across Nigeria and beyond.
He subsequently became known for songs such as Igbega, Lord of Lords, Eleda Mi and Iba, as well as his spirit-filled worship chants.
From a Fuji singer known as Sodiq to a gospel minister celebrated as Toluwanisings, his life story reflects a journey of spiritual transformation, faith and dedication to his calling.
Toluwanisings reportedly passed away in the early hours of Wednesday, October 14, 2026, after slumping, according to reports confirmed by his family.
