The Nigerian gospel music community was thrown into mourning following the passing away of beloved gospel singer and ordained minister Bolaji Olanrewaju, popularly known as Big Bolaji aka Big B, who passed away on Easter Saturday, 19th April 2025, at the age of 50, after a brief illness. He is renowned for his joyful praise, humour, and infectious spirit. 

His death was confirmed through an official statement released by his family, who described him as a “cherished father, husband, brother, and an esteemed figure in both the church and the music industry.” 

Early Life and Background 

Born in Gbongan, Osun State, Big Bolaji was raised in Ibadan, Oyo State, where his love for music began and was nurtured by his late mother, Reverend Mrs. Sola Olanrewaju, who was a choir coordinator and broadcaster. She played a significant role in shaping his musical journey.

Education

He began his primary school education at Subuola Nursery and Primary School in Ibadan. He then briefly attended Loyola College before moving to the United Kingdom, where he completed his secondary education at Archbishop Tenison’s High School, Oval, London.

Upon returning to Nigeria, he pursued Estate Management at Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin. At the time of his death, he was also pursuing a PhD, exemplifying his lifelong commitment to both spiritual and intellectual growth.

Spiritual Journey and Music Ministry

Big Bolaji was converted and raised in The Sword of the Spirit Ministries, under the spiritual leadership of Bishop Francis Wale Oke, before later being ordained as a minister with the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG). He spent over 19 years in ministry, preaching, mentoring, and spreading the gospel of Christ through music.

His musical style was a very vibrant one, filled with Yoruba-infused rhythms, humor, and engaging praise that captured the hearts of many. He stood out not just for his voice but for his heart — a man who turned every stage into a platform of joy, healing, and worship.

Although he never released a full album, Big Bolaji was known for his powerful live performances of classic praise and worship songs. He also released a single titled “Real to Me” in 2018.

Events, Contributions, and Legacy

He was the founder and host of “Turn It Up With Big Bolaji,” an annual praise concert usually held in Ibadan, which stemmed from his long-running gospel radio show of the same name. The concert became a major worship gathering, bringing together thousands of believers in praise.

In addition, he served as a board member of the Living Spring Music Festival, one of Nigeria’s longest-standing gospel music festivals. He was also a judge on the Gospel Icons Africa reality show, where he mentored upcoming gospel talents.

Beyond the pulpit and stage, Big Bolaji was also a certified estate surveyor and was able to balance his professional and ministry life with excellence.

Personal Life

Big Bolaji met his wife, Tolulope, during his academic journey years back. The two courted for over six years and got married in 2005. Their union was blessed with children, and he often spoke of his family with pride and affection.

A Lasting Impact

His 50th birthday celebration earlier in the year, 2025, was a major event, with friends, colleagues, and gospel artists joining to honour his legacy. Sadly, just months later, tributes now pour in to mourn the joyful minister.

From Muyiwa, his grieving brother who posted “My baby brother is gone…” to artists like Chioma Jesus, Woli Agba, Beejay Sax, Mike Abdul, Joe Praize, Peterson Okopi, and Nosa, the gospel community has been united in their grief and gratitude for Big Bolaji’s life.

As his family wrote in their statement: “We take solace in knowing that his absence with us is his presence with the Lord.”

FAQs About Big Bolaji

1. What caused Big Bolaji’s death?

 He passed away after a brief illness on Easter Saturday, April 19, 2025.

2. Was Big Bolaji signed to any record label?

No, he was an independent gospel minister who focused on live praise events and worship sessions rather than album releases.

3. Did Big Bolaji release any albums? 

He didn’t release a full album, but he released a single titled “Real to Me” in 2018 and was widely known for his powerful live ministrations.

4. Which church was Big Bolaji affiliated with?

He was an ordained minister with the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).

5. What is “Turn It Up With Big Bolaji”?

It’s an annual praise concert hosted in Ibadan by Big Bolaji, stemming from his popular gospel radio program.

6. Where was Big Bolaji from?

He hailed from Gbongan, Osun State, but grew up in Ibadan, Oyo State.

7. Was Big Bolaji married?

Yes, he was married to Tolulope Olanrewaju, and they had children together.

8. What was Big Bolaji’s professional background outside music?

He was a certified estate surveyor and was pursuing a PhD before his passing.

9. What was Big Bolaji’s music style known for?

Energetic worship, humour, and a fusion of Yoruba rhythms with contemporary gospel music.

10. How is Big Bolaji being remembered?

As a joyful vessel of praise, a dedicated minister, a mentor to young gospel artists, and a loving family man.