The Olubadan of Ibadan land, Oba (Dr) Olalekan Mohood Balogun, Alli Okunmade II has described Ibadan based gospel singer Evangelist (Dr) Bola Are as one of the most consistent and respected gospel music singer in Nigeria and the world at large.
Olubadan made the submission on Thursday at his Alarere Palace during the courtesy visit of the singer whose fifty years on stage anniversary will hold at Jogor Center on Thursday, 14 December 2023 by 12 noon pm prompt.
The Olubadan who spoke through Senator Kola Balogun described Evangelist Bola Are as a model and very courageous woman whose gospel music has had remarkable impacts in the lives of many people all over the world.
The monarch also recalled and acknowledge the great impacts which Dr. Bola Are’s songs has had in successive administrations, adding that her impact will remain indelible in their memory.
“I congratulate you Dr. Bola Are on the celebration of fifty years anniversary of your positive contributions to mankind through your wonderful and soul inspiring gospel songs. You have indeed proved your mettle as a chosen vessel of honor in the work of the Kingdom. The Lord God who called into His light and service will continue to bless, honour and expand your coast, he added.
“You are a rare gift unto people, your songs have ministered salvation and healing to many people. Through her songs, many have been healed and saved. The records are obvious.Your obedience, humanity and commitment has been rewarded, hence the great celebration.
The monarch has approved Evangelist Bola Are as gospel minister to sing during end of the year and new year prayer programme of the palace. She will minister at the January 2024 prayer programme coming up at the Alarere Palace of the Olubadan.
Responding, the vibrant Singer, Evangelist Bola Are thanked the Olubadan for the warm receptions, saying Ibadan has been her home since 1970.
“Ibadan has been my home since 1970 and I have been so blessed in the ancient city. I really thank God Almighty and you Kabiyesi for your gestures and warm receptions.
Evangelist Bola said her visit to the Monarch was aimed at identifying with the Olubadan and to officially inform him of her 50 years anniversary coming up on Thursday December 14, 2023 at Jogor Center, Ibadan.
Giving a brief background of her sojourn in the singing ministry, the Apostle of gospel music said the story of her stardom began in the June 26, 1973, when she had an encounter with God on her way to work.
“The scenario occured when I was working at Tewogbade and Sons around Challenge area in Ibadan.
On June 26, 1973, I left my house around Agbokojo at exactly 6;30am for work at Tewogbade and Sons around Challenge area in Ibadan. As I was rushing to the office, I suddenly had a divine encounter and fell into a trance, I was held on by the Spirit of God and caught into the heavenly realm. My physical senses were suspended, though, functional.
“I leaned on a wall and passers by who knew me greeted me but I could not respond. In that encounter, the host of heaven began to sing with melodious tune to worship the Almighty God. It was such a glorious experience that I desired to stay there for as long as it could take me.”
Also speaking, the chairman of the Planning Committee of the 50 years anniversary of Evangelist Bola Are on stage, Pastor Oyebola Oyediran said reason for the visit was aimed at identifying with the quality leadership of the Olubadan and inform him about the programme.
Pastor Oyediran who is the presiding Pastor, En-Hakkore Church, Aladura, Felele Express. end, Ibadan, said Dr Bola Are has done a lot in the ministry, hence, we, her spiritual children decided to celebrate the grace of God in her.
The clergy thanked the monarch for the warm reception and honour done to Evangelist Bola Are.
