Nigeria lost a beloved spiritual leader on August 7, 2023, when Pastor Taiwo Odukoya, a prominent figure in the world of Pentecostalism, passed away at the age of 67. His unexpected demise sent shockwaves through his followers, leaving many in grief. In this article, we’ll delve into the life and family of Pastor Taiwo Odukoya, shedding light on his sons – Jimmy, Timilehin, and Jomiloju Odukoya.
Early Life and Ministry
Pastor Taiwo Odukoya was born on June 15, 1956, in Kaduna, Nigeria. He was the co-founder of The Fountain of Life Church, established in 1992 alongside Bimbo Odukoya. Their mission was to impart wisdom about successful relationships and leadership principles. Taiwo’s educational journey began at Baptist Primary School in Kaduna, followed by St. Paul’s College. Later, in 1976, he pursued a degree in petroleum engineering at the University of Ibadan.
Career and Service
After completing his studies, Taiwo Odukoya commenced his career at the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) in April 1982, as part of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). In January 1994, he voluntarily retired from NNPC. Throughout his life, he made significant contributions not only in the spiritual realm but also in the professional arena.
Meet Jimmy Odukoya
One of the burning questions on people’s minds since Pastor Taiwo Odukoya’s passing is about his children. First, let’s get acquainted with Jimmy Odukoya, his eldest son. Jimmy, born on April 27, 1993, is a Nigerian actor renowned for his role in the movie “The Woman King.” At 30 years old, he’s carving his own path in the world of entertainment, following in the footsteps of his accomplished father.
A Tragic Loss and Second Marriage
Jimmy Odukoya is the product of Pastor Taiwo’s first marriage to the late Pastor Bimbo. They exchanged vows in 1984, having met at the University of Ibadan. Tragically, Pastor Bimbo, along with 102 others, lost her life in a plane crash involving Sosoliso Airlines Flight 1145. The heartbreaking incident left a void in their family.
The Sons from the Second Union
After Pastor Taiwo Odukoya’s painful loss, life took another turn when he married Nomthi Odukoya, also known as Rosemary Simagele Zulu, on January 5, 2010. From this marriage came two more sons, Timilehin and Jomiloju Odukoya. Unfortunately, in 2021, the family faced another heart-wrenching moment as Nomthi passed away due to cancer.
A Private Life
While Jimmy Odukoya has ventured into the public eye with his acting career, Timilehin and Jomiloju have chosen a more private existence, staying away from the prying eyes of the media. Details about these two young men remain undisclosed, allowing them to grieve their mother’s loss and navigate life outside the spotlight.
Conclusion
Pastor Taiwo Odukoya’s legacy lives on through his sons, each forging their own path in life. Jimmy Odukoya continues to shine in the entertainment industry, carrying forward the values instilled by his father. Timilehin and Jomiloju, while maintaining their privacy, no doubt carry the wisdom and love of their late parents in their hearts. As Nigeria mourns the loss of a spiritual leader, the Odukoya family remains in the thoughts and prayers of many.
