The Nigerian gospel music community has been thrown into mourning following the passing of veteran gospel singer and evangelist, Toun Soetan, who died on March 13, 2026, at the age of 73.

Known for her deep spiritual messages and timeless worship songs, Soetan spent decades impacting lives through music, evangelism, and ministry. Her songs have remained staples in churches across Nigeria and beyond.

Below are six quick facts about the late gospel icon:

1. Toun Soetan was widely respected as a gospel singer, songwriter, and evangelist whose ministry spanned several decades. Her music and teachings influenced generations of worshippers within and outside Nigeria.
2. Born in Lagos around June 18, 1953 or 1954, she grew up in the Beere area of Ibadan. She was raised in a large Muslim family—her father reportedly had 28 children—and was originally named Alimat Sadia before converting to Christianity.
3. In 1974, she converted from Islam to Christianity after attending a revival service at Oritamefa Baptist Church. The decision reportedly led to rejection from some family members but marked the beginning of her lifelong Christian ministry.
4. Before committing fully to ministry, Soetan was a trained teacher who spent about 16 years in the teaching profession. She also studied at the University of Ibadan.
5. She wrote and popularised several enduring gospel songs, including “Darling Jesus,” composed in 1987, as well as “Baba E Se,” “Thank You Jesus,” “I’m Born Again,” “Iye Ree,” “Gbe Jesus Ga,” and “Train Up Your Child.” These songs continue to be widely sung in churches.
6. Soetan founded Trinity World Evangelical Ministry, where she served as a minister and mentor. She was known for teaching worship and spiritual warfare and was committed to free ministration, often stressing that true evangelism should not be commercialised.

Her death marks the end of an era for many gospel music lovers, but her songs and ministry legacy continue to inspire believers across generations. (TRIBUNE)