Nigerian gospel music community came together in deep sorrow and celebration of life as renowned gospel singer, Bolaji Olanrewaju, popularly known as Big Bolaji, was finally laid to rest in Ibadan, Oyo State. His burial took place weeks after his unfortunate passing on April 19, 2025, at the age of 50, following a brief illness that shocked many fans and fellow ministers.
The burial rites commenced on Wednesday with a touching and well-attended funeral service and lying-in-state held at the prestigious Hall of Grace, Jogor Centre, in the heart of Ibadan. It was a moment of sober reflection, heartfelt tributes, and thanksgiving for a life well spent in the service of God and humanity.
Friends, colleagues, family members, and gospel music lovers gathered in their numbers to honour the legacy of Big Bolaji. His contribution to gospel music and ministry in Nigeria spanned over two decades, and his unique voice and powerful ministrations had a lasting impact on audiences across the country and beyond.
The event was graced by notable figures in the gospel music and Christian entertainment industry, including popular gospel artistes such as Tosin Bee, Mike Abdul, Bidemi Olaoba, Yetunde Are, and beloved comedian and gospel figure Woli Agba. Each of them took turns to pay emotional tributes, recalling personal encounters, ministerial experiences, and the indelible mark Big Bolaji left in their lives and the gospel music landscape.
During the ceremony, a moving tribute video was played, chronicling major highlights of Big Bolaji’s music journey and moments of spiritual impact through his ministry. The video featured clips from live performances, interviews, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into his work and devotion. It drew tears, applause, and a standing ovation from many attendees who were visibly moved by his life story.
In deeply emotional scenes, social media clips and eyewitness accounts showed pallbearers gently carrying his white casket, beautifully adorned with white flowers, into the venue while a reverent silence swept across the hall. The atmosphere was filled with solemnity, love, and an outpouring of gratitude for a life that had blessed many.
Following the funeral service, the body of the late gospel music icon was transported to All Souls Private Cemetery in Ido, Ibadan, where he was finally laid to rest. Friends, spiritual sons and daughters, and family stood around the gravesite, singing hymns, praying, and saying their final goodbyes with tears and heartfelt declarations.
His wife, siblings, and close family stood in unwavering faith and grace as they witnessed the final moments of his earthly journey. Many offered words of comfort and encouragement, acknowledging that Big Bolaji's impact will live on through his music, ministry, and the lives he transformed.
The passing of Big Bolaji marks the end of an era in Nigerian gospel music, but his memory continues to inspire. May his soul rest in perfect peace.
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