By Victory Emmanuel
Reverend John Adelaja Aina has been remembered as a compassionate Christian leader, gifted music mentor and influential teacher whose contribution to church music continues to resonate among musicians and ministers in Nigeria and beyond.
The tribute, titled “The Tribute of Reverend John Adelaja Aina – A Memorial to Behold,” was held at Tolu Olugbemi Hall, University of Lagos, bringing together pastors, music ministers, academics, choristers and beneficiaries of his ministry.
The memorial programme, which commenced at 12 noon, featured hymns, musical presentations, testimonies, an interview session and tributes celebrating the life and enduring influence of Reverend Aina.
An opening hymn was presented by Mr Barnabas Inumidun Akindele, while a Lead Pastor led the opening prayers. Another pastor subsequently delivered remarks highlighting Reverend Aina’s contribution to Christian ministry and music.
Musicians Pay Tribute to a Life of Service
The first phase of the programme featured musical presentations by pastors and ministers from Nigeria and overseas.
Among those who participated were Mrs Abiodun Gorge, Tope Johnson, Taiwo Babatunde, Seyi Oduyade, Adekunle Mofolayo, Moladun Adebayo and Teniola Adenuga. Adura Lare Ojumu, Yanmi Ojumu and Hope Dantoye also joined the tribute virtually.
The musical presentations included “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring,” “Forever with My God,” “Nearer to God” and “Dwelling in Canaan Land.”
Elisha Ogunade also made a presentation and spoke warmly about Reverend Aina’s ministry.
According to Ogunade, Reverend Aina demonstrated through his life how Christians could faithfully dedicate themselves to the work of God.
Former Students Recall His Influence
The second phase featured an interview session with Tolu Afolabi and Lana Alofe, anchored by Prince Tony Ademuyiwa.
The participants reflected on their experiences with Reverend Aina and the influence his mentorship had on their musical and spiritual development.
Lana Alofe described Reverend Aina as a father figure who encouraged young people to participate actively in music ministry.
He recalled that his entire musical training took place in the church and that Reverend Aina played a significant role in shaping his career.
“He was like a father to me. I thank God I was able to grow under him,” Alofe said.
He also recalled Reverend Aina’s emphasis on combining musical excellence with commitment to God’s Word.
According to him, the late music mentor taught him important aspects of music and gave him training that has continued to benefit him professionally.
“He imparted me,” Alofe recalled, adding that Reverend Aina taught him how to draw music with such precision that it could appear as though it had been printed.
From Church Training to Professional Excellence
Tolu Afolabi also recalled his early encounter with Reverend Aina, explaining that he was tested with the flute before joining the orchestra band in 1984.
He said Reverend Aina encouraged him throughout his musical development.
The discussion further highlighted the role of the Apostolic Faith Church in nurturing musicians and the contribution of Reverend Aina to the development of young music ministers.
Prince Tony Ademuyiwa said his background in the Apostolic Faith contributed significantly to his growth in music. He also recalled Reverend Aina’s initiative in establishing a youth choir.
According to Ademuyiwa, several music leaders outside Nigeria also benefited from Reverend Aina’s training and mentorship.
The testimonies underscored a recurring theme of the memorial: Reverend Aina’s influence extended beyond musical performance into character, discipline, spirituality and leadership.
University Don and Music Scholars Honour His Legacy
Professor Albert Oikelome, Head of the Department of Music and Sound Production at the University of Lagos, also paid tribute to Reverend Aina.
Oikelome performed “How Beautiful Heaven Must Be” and presented a speech on behalf of Dr D.K. Olukoya.
He described Reverend Aina as a compassionate man who loved both God and people. He also recalled being fascinated by Reverend Aina’s exceptional mastery of the organ.
According to Oikelome, Reverend Aina’s legacy remains alive through the musicians and music ministers he trained.
“He was a father, a brother and a friend,” he said, noting that music continues through those who benefited from Reverend Aina’s mentorship.
Professor Olusanji Olu-Ibukun Stephen, Dean of the Faculty of Creative Arts, also acknowledged Reverend Aina’s influence, recalling that he encouraged him to study music.
He described Reverend Aina as a man whose life was characterised by significant impact.
Musical Performances Mark Memorial Celebration
The memorial also featured performances by several choirs and musical groups connected to Reverend Aina’s legacy.
The Chamber Orchestra, described as products of his mentorship, performed alongside the Chamber Choir led by Dr Seun Oluade.
Beulah Cartel MFM also ministered, while Emmanuel Odun Lijofi presented a flute rendition of “Then My Living Shall Not Be in Vain.”
Lisa Morgan performed a resurrection medley, while the MFM Headquarters Choir ministered with “To God Be the Glory” and “When the Roll Is Called Up Yonder.”
The Asaph Choir from MFM also ministered with “The Name of Jesus” and “All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name.”
Reverend Professor Dele Fakorede commended the musical presentations and reflected on Reverend Aina’s contribution to music ministry.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Jerry Aina, Reverend Aina’s son, while Festus Oyeniyi led the closing prayers.
‘His Impact Was Worldwide’
Speaking in an interview, Professor Dele Fakorede said Reverend Aina’s influence was not limited to the Apostolic Faith Church.
He noted that Reverend Aina’s impact extended to other Christian denominations, including the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries and the Christ Apostolic Church.
Fakorede also said music leaders in Europe, America and South Africa were among those who had benefited from Reverend Aina’s influence.
“Reverend John did not just make an impact in Apostolic Faith; he went to other churches,” Fakorede said, stressing that his legacy had become international.
He subsequently challenged young music ministers not to become discouraged but to remain committed to their calling and continue developing their skills.
According to him, young music ministers must also learn to love people and should not restrict their ministry to a single denomination.
Why Reverend John Adelaja Aina’s Legacy Matters
The tributes at the memorial demonstrated that Reverend Aina’s contribution went beyond playing instruments or training choristers.
His legacy was presented as one built around mentorship, discipline, Christian character, musical excellence and service to God.
For the musicians and ministers who passed through his tutelage, his influence continues to shape their professional careers and spiritual lives.
The memorial therefore served not only as a remembrance of a respected music minister but also as a celebration of the generations of musicians whose lives were influenced by his commitment to music and Christian ministry.
As Professor Fakorede’s remarks suggested, the continuing presence of Reverend Aina’s students and protégés in churches, universities and music communities in Nigeria and abroad remains one of the strongest testimonies to the enduring nature of his work.
Conclusion
The memorial tribute to Reverend John Adelaja Aina brought together music, faith and personal testimonies to celebrate a man remembered for investing deeply in the lives of others.
From the Apostolic Faith Church to other denominations and from Nigeria to international music communities, speakers at the event portrayed Reverend Aina as a mentor whose lessons extended far beyond the notes of music.
His story, as remembered by his students and colleagues, is ultimately one of influence: a life that helped others discover their gifts, develop their abilities and use them in service to God and humanity.
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