Biography of Evangelist Dr. Bola Are

Early Life and Background

Evangelist Dr. Bola Are was born on October 1, 1954, in Erio, a town in Ekiti-West Local Government Area of Ekiti State, southwestern Nigeria. She was born into the family of Elder Babayomi and Mrs. T. A. Babayomi, both natives of Erio. Her upbringing was deeply rooted in the Christian faith, and she was mentored by four prominent prophets of the Christ Apostolic Church: Apostle Ayodele Babalola, Prophet Babajide, Prophet Akande, and Prophet T.O. Obadare. These spiritual leaders significantly influenced her early life and spiritual development.

Education

Bola Are pursued her education diligently. She obtained her Doctorate degree in Music in July 1985 from St. John’s University in Missouri, USA. Her academic achievements laid a strong foundation for her illustrious career in gospel music.

Music Career

Bola Are’s musical journey began at a young age, nurtured by her deep spiritual background. In July 1973, she founded the “Spiritual Covenant Gospel Singers” at Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Olugbode, Odo-Ona, Ibadan. This group marked the inception of her ministry, which later evolved into the Bola Are Gospel Music Ministries International.

In 1979, she established the Okiki Jesu Record Label Company, one of the pioneering gospel music labels in Nigeria. Her dedication to gospel music has resulted in the release of numerous albums; as of December 2019, she had released a total of 87 albums.

Beyond her music career, Bola Are served as the President of the Gospel Musicians Association of Nigeria. During her tenure, the association achieved significant milestones, including registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission and the establishment of new chapters across Nigeria.

Personal Life

In 1977, Bola Are married the late Pastor J.O. Are. Their union was blessed with children who have followed in their mother’s footsteps, becoming singers and musicians themselves.

Philanthropy and Legacy

In 1995, she founded the Bola Are Gospel Foundation International, aimed at catering to the needs of the less privileged in Nigeria. Additionally, on July 7, 1990, she established the School of Gospel Music International to mentor and guide aspiring gospel musicians.

Evangelist Dr. Bola Are’s life and career have been marked by unwavering dedication to gospel music and spiritual mentorship, leaving an indelible impact on Nigeria’s gospel music landscape.​