Nigeria’s Christian landscape shines brightly because of its veteran pastors, whose unwavering commitment to ministry embodies the biblical truth that “no one who puts his hand to the plough and looks back is fit for the Kingdom.”
These spiritual giants, who see ministry as a lifelong calling with no retirement, have dedicated decades to spreading the gospel, leading churches, and transforming lives.
Even in their advanced years, many in their 70s, 80s, and 90s, they remain active, preaching with fervor, overseeing global ministries, and inspiring generations.
The passing of Uma Ukpai on October 6, 2025, serves as a reminder of this enduring service until the end.
Below are the ten oldest living Nigerian pastors who continue to labor tirelessly in God’s vineyard as of October 2025, listed in order of age based on verified records on Google.
1. Apostle O. N. Godwin, at 96, stands as Nigeria’s oldest active pastor. Born on May 11, 1929, in Isiogbo Nara, Enugu State, he founded Christ Ascension Church Nigeria, one of the country’s earliest indigenous Pentecostal movements. Saved as a child and baptised in 1951, Godwin has spent over seven decades in ministry, still leading services and evangelism efforts in Enugu with remarkable vigor.
2. Pastor Elijah Oludele Abina, 90, has been a pillar of The Gospel Faith Mission International (GOFAMINT) since taking over as General Overseer in 1988. Born on June 16, 1935, he left secular work in 1962 to dedicate himself to ministry, marking over 63 years of service. A founding father of Nigeria’s Pentecostal movement, Abina continues to guide GOFAMINT’s global outreach and remains influential in interdenominational bodies like the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria.
3. At 84, Pastor William Folorunsho Kumuyi, born June 6, 1941, leads Deeper Life Bible Church, which he founded in 1973 as a small Bible study group in Lagos. Now a global holiness movement, his ministry spans over 52 years. Kumuyi, a former mathematics lecturer, remains active in 2025, conducting crusades, Bible studies, and youth conferences worldwide.
4. Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, 83, born March 2, 1942, has served as General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) since 1981. A former university lecturer, he was ordained in 1977 and has led RCCG for 44 years, growing it into a global network of over 190 countries. In 2025, Adeboye continues to preach at RCCG’s Holy Ghost Congress and various events, supported by his wife, Pastor Folu Adeboye.
5. Archbishop Margaret Benson-Idahosa, 82, born July 29, 1943, is a trailblazer as Africa’s first female Pentecostal Archbishop. Leading the Church of God Mission International (CGMI) since her husband’s passing, she has been in ministry for over 42 years. As Chancellor of Benson Idahosa University, she remains active in 2025, leading crusades and mentoring believers globally.
6. Bishop Mike Okonkwo, 80, born September 6, 1945, founded The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM) in 1981 after his ordination in 1971. With over 54 years in ministry, he continues to lead weekly services, mentor leaders, and inspire through his teachings in 2025, alongside his wife, Dr. Peace Okonkwo.
7. Evangelist Isaac Omolehin, 74, born February 24, 1951, leads Word Assembly Ministries in Ilorin, Kwara State. For over five decades, his ministry has focused on soul-winning and discipleship. In 2025, Omolehin remained a passionate evangelist, preaching and teaching across Nigeria and beyond.
8. Pastor Lazarus Muoka, 73, reportedly born in 1952, founded The Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Revival Movement in December 2002 after divine encounters. His years in ministry have made his church a cornerstone of Nigeria’s evangelical revival scene. Muoka continues to lead vibrant services and crusades in 2025, drawing thousands with his fiery preaching.
9. Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo, also 73, born March 17, 1952, established Kingsway International Christian Centre (KICC) in the UK in September 1992. With roots in Nigeria’s 1970s Christian movement, his over 50 years of service include preaching and global outreach in 2025, alongside his wife, Pastor Yemisi Ashimolowo.
10. Bishop David Oyedepo, 71, born September 27, 1954, rounds out the list as the founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide (Winners’ Chapel). Since his divine call in 1981, he has led the ministry for 44 years, overseeing the massive Faith Tabernacle in Ota and global branches. In 2025, Oyedepo remains active, hosting the annual Shiloh gatherings and guiding educational institutions, supported by his wife, Pastor Faith Abiola Oyedepo.
These pastors, through their enduring service, exemplify a relentless commitment to their divine calling, proving that true ministry knows no retirement.
Their lives continue to inspire millions, carrying the fire of revival across Nigeria and the world.
