For many years, Anita Oyakhilome was a familiar name across Christian circles, celebrated as the wife of renowned preacher Pastor Chris Oyakhilome and co-founder of Christ Embassy. But in recent years, Anita has stepped away from the public spotlight, choosing instead a quieter life of ministry and personal growth. Beyond the headlines of divorce and media speculation, Anita’s story is one of resilience, faith, and rediscovery.

Anita Oyakhilome Early Life and Family Background

Anita Ebhodaghe (formerly Oyakhilome) was born into a distinguished family with both African and European roots. Her mother is of Swiss descent, while her father, John Ebhodaghe, once served as CEO of the Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC).

She is the eldest of five children, growing up in a Christian home where values of faith and discipline were deeply emphasized. Despite her later prominence, Anita has remained a private person, with limited details about her childhood made public.

Education and Meeting Pastor Chris

Anita studied English Language at Edo State University (now Ambrose Alli University) in Ekpoma. During her time on campus, she encountered a young Chris Oyakhilome, who at the time was actively leading the Believers’ Loveworld fellowship.

It was here that Anita had her born-again experience and also began her lifelong journey in ministry. Their shared passion for spreading the gospel soon blossomed into a partnership that extended beyond spirituality and eventually into marriage.

Marriage and Ministry Partnership

In 1991, Anita and Chris Oyakhilome were married in Lagos, Nigeria. Together, they founded Christ Embassy (Believers’ Loveworld Inc.), one of the largest Pentecostal ministries in Africa and beyond, which today boasts millions of members worldwide.

Anita was instrumental in the international expansion of the ministry. She served as the Director of the International Office and became a prominent voice in the UK branch of Christ Embassy. She was also a member of the church’s Central Executive Council, contributing to administrative, counseling, and teaching responsibilities.

Divorce and Public Fallout

The marriage, however, began to experience challenges, and in 2014, Anita filed for divorce in London. After a lengthy legal battle, the divorce was finalized on February 8, 2016.

Reports suggested that the split was due to irreconcilable differences, with allegations of infidelity and emotional strain surfacing in the media. Anita herself hinted at personal struggles within the marriage through writings on her personal blog, suggesting that respect and equality were recurring points of contention.

Despite the painful process, Anita maintained grace, keeping much of her personal life out of public drama while focusing on her daughters and her calling.

READ ALSO: Full Biography of Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

Life After Divorce: A New Beginning

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Following her divorce, Anita dropped the Oyakhilome surname and returned to her maiden name, Ebhodaghe. At one point, she signed off a blog post with the name Anita Ebhodaghe Schäfer, sparking rumors that she had remarried a European man. However, Anita later clarified that “Schäfer” was her mother’s maiden name, which she adopted as a way of honoring her parents.

Today, Anita continues to live in the United Kingdom, where she leads a quieter life but remains active in ministry through her blog and online teachings. She is no longer affiliated with Christ Embassy but still passionately spreads the gospel.

Anita Oyakhilome Children: Sharon and Charlene

Anita and Pastor Chris are blessed with two daughters:

• Carissa Sharon Oyakhilome (CSO) – Born in 1993, Sharon is a gospel singer and songwriter with LoveWorld Music and Arts Ministry (LMAM). In 2018, she married Ghanaian businessman Phillip Frimpong in a high-profile Lagos wedding officiated by Pastor Benny Hinn. The couple welcomed a daughter, Arielle Rachelle-Marise, in 2021, making Anita and Chris proud grandparents.

• Charlene Oyakhilome – Born in 1995, Charlene is known for her quiet lifestyle. Unlike her sister, she has chosen to live away from the limelight, residing in the UK with her mother.

Anita’s Motherhood and Influence

As a mother, Anita has instilled strong Christian values into her daughters. Despite the challenges of separation, both she and Pastor Chris share a deep pride in their children’s growth, achievements, and individuality.

For Anita, motherhood remains one of her greatest callings—nurturing her daughters spiritually and emotionally while also guiding them to embrace their unique paths.

Contributions to Christ Embassy

Even though Anita has since cut ties with Christ Embassy, her role in its early growth cannot be ignored. She was pivotal in:

• Strengthening the UK branch of the ministry.

• Offering dynamic teachings and counseling that inspired thousands.

• Advocating for women’s empowerment within faith-based communities.

Her legacy in the church remains as a woman who combined intelligence, grace, and spirituality to make a lasting impact.

Present Life

Today, Anita Ebhodaghe lives a peaceful and private life in London. She continues to write and minister through online platforms such as her official blog (pastoranita.org) and her Facebook page (facebook.com/pastoranita.org).

Unlike many public figures, Anita has chosen to stay away from the noise of social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter, preferring instead to maintain a life of quiet dignity, faith, and service.

Quick Facts: Anita Oyakhilome (Ebhodaghe)

• Full Name: Anita Ebhodaghe

• Former Name: Anita Oyakhilome

• Father: John Ebhodaghe

• Mother: Swiss descent (maiden name Schäfer)

• Education: Edo State University (now Ambrose Alli University), English Language

• Ex-Husband: Pastor Chris Oyakhilome (m. 1991 – div. 2016)

• Children: Carissa Sharon and Charlene

• Occupation: Pastor, Writer, Evangelist

• Current Residence: London, United Kingdom

Final Thoughts

The story of Anita Oyakhilome (now Ebhodaghe) is one of courage, transition, and faith. From her days as co-founder of one of Africa’s largest ministries to her present quiet pastoral life, Anita has proven to be more than just “the ex-wife of Pastor Chris.” She is a woman of influence, a devoted mother, and a voice of strength to many who have faced challenges in faith and marriage.

Her journey reminds us that while life may bring trials and unexpected changes, it also provides room for renewal, purpose, and grace.