Bola Are: Biography, Net Worth, Ministry And Career Highlights

When you mention the pioneers of Nigerian gospel music, one name that will always stand tall is Dr. Bola Are. For over four decades, she has remained a powerful voice in spreading the gospel through music, inspiring generations with her deep, Yoruba-infused worship style. Known for her passionate praise, Spirit-filled worship, and unwavering dedication to the gospel, Bola Are is more than just a singer — she is a minister, mentor, and trailblazer.

Her journey is not just about fame and music; it is a testimony of divine calling, discipline, and dedication to kingdom service. This post will take you through her biography, ministry, career highlights, and estimated net worth, while giving you a closer look at why she remains a household name in Nigerian gospel music.

Biography of Bola Are

Early Life and Background

Bola Are was born on October 1, 1954, in Erio-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria. She hails from a deeply religious Christian family. Her parents, Prophetess Julianah Adebusoye and Elder Babayomi Are, were devout followers of Christ, and their spiritual influence played a major role in shaping Bola’s early life.

From childhood, Bola Are displayed remarkable musical talent. She began singing in church at a very young age, often leading worship sessions with a voice far beyond her years. Growing up, she was deeply inspired by the works of gospel pioneers like Apostle Ayodele Babalola and other ministers of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), where her family worshipped.

Education

Bola Are attended Christ Apostolic Church schools and later proceeded to obtain a degree in music from the University of Ibadan. Her decision to formally study music strengthened her technical skills and gave her the ability to blend traditional gospel with contemporary sounds while staying true to her African roots.

Ministry Journey

A Divine Calling

Bola Are’s journey into gospel music was not merely a career choice — it was a calling. She has often testified that God revealed her purpose as a gospel singer while she was still young. Her ministry officially began in 1973, and she immediately stood out for her unique style: a rich Yoruba praise worship infused with deep spiritual messages.

Formation of the Bola Are Gospel Ministry

In 1973, Bola Are established the Bola Are Gospel Ministry with the mission to spread the gospel to every corner of the world. Through concerts, crusades, and recordings, she reached both rural and urban communities, leading many to Christ through her Spirit-led ministrations.

Her ministry has also been involved in charitable works, helping the less privileged and supporting young gospel artistes.

Music Style and Influence

Bola Are’s music style is characterized by:

• Deep Yoruba praise and worship.
• Biblical storytelling through song.
• Call-and-response choruses.
• Traditional percussion and African instrumentation.

Her songs are not just melodies — they are prayers, prophecies, and declarations. Many Nigerians can recall waking up on Sunday mornings to Bola Are’s records playing in their homes, filling the atmosphere with worship.

Career Highlights

Over her long career, Bola Are has achieved remarkable milestones:

Over 100 Albums Released

She is one of the most prolific gospel artists in Nigeria, having released more than 100 albums since her debut. Her first album, Baba Ku Ise, was released in 1977 and became an instant success.

National and International Tours

Bola Are has ministered across Nigeria, Africa, Europe, and North America, taking her brand of African gospel to the global stage.

Awards and Recognition

She has received numerous awards for her contributions to gospel music, including lifetime achievement awards from various Christian bodies and media organizations.

Mentorship

Bola Are has mentored several younger gospel artists, many of whom now have successful ministries of their own.

Doctorate Degree

She holds a doctorate degree in music, further cementing her legacy as not just a singer but also a scholar and educator in gospel music.

Popular Songs by Bola Are

Some of her most loved songs include:

• Baba Ku Ise
• Halleluyah Mi O Mase
• Ore Ofe Ti Mo Ri
• Agbara Olorun Po
• Kabiyesi O
• Oba Ayeraye

These songs are timeless and continue to be sung in churches and Christian gatherings.

Net Worth of Bola Are

While gospel ministers do not primarily focus on wealth, Bola Are’s decades of active music ministry, international tours, album sales, and ministry engagements have contributed to her financial stability. As of 2025, her estimated net worth is around $500,000 – $800,000 USD. This figure is derived from:

• Proceeds from album sales and digital streaming.
• Live concerts and crusade appearances.
• Ministry offerings and support.
• Book sales and speaking engagements.

Despite her financial success, Bola Are is known for her humility and generosity, often channeling resources back into her ministry and charity work.

Impact and Legacy

Bola Are’s influence on Nigerian gospel music cannot be overstated. She:

• Pioneered a distinct Yoruba praise style that remains popular today.
• Inspired generations of gospel singers to embrace indigenous sounds.
• Expanded the reach of Nigerian gospel beyond church walls into the global community.
• Served faithfully for over four decades without compromising her message.

Her songs are more than music — they are spiritual experiences that lead people into worship and inspire them to draw closer to God.

Personal Life

Bola Are is a devoted mother and grandmother. She values family, often speaking about the importance of raising children in the fear of God. Despite her busy schedule, she maintains a disciplined prayer life and continues to minister actively.

Awards and Honors

Over the years, Bola Are has been recognized for her contribution to gospel music:

• Lifetime Achievement Award by Gospel Music Awards Nigeria.
• Special Recognition Award by Christ Apostolic Church.
• Honorary Doctorate from Christian institutions.
• Several plaques and medals from music organizations in Nigeria and abroad.

Lessons from Bola Are’s Life

From her story, we learn that:

1. Purpose is powerful — knowing your calling gives direction to your life.
2. Faithfulness pays — decades of consistency have made her a legend.
3. Cultural heritage matters — embracing your roots can set you apart.
4. Service is greater than fame — her focus has always been on ministry, not popularity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When was Bola Are born?

She was born on October 1, 1954.

2. How did Bola Are start her music career?

She began singing in church as a child and officially started her music ministry in 1973 after receiving a divine calling.

3. How many albums has Bola Are released?

She has released over 100 albums.

4. What is Bola Are’s music style?

Her style is rooted in Yoruba praise and worship, combined with African rhythms and biblical storytelling.

5. What is Bola Are’s estimated net worth?

Her net worth is estimated between $500,000 – $800,000 USD.

6. Is Bola Are still active in ministry?

Yes, she continues to minister at concerts, crusades, and church programs.

Conclusion

Dr. Bola Are is more than a gospel artist — she is a living legend, a voice of revival, and a custodian of indigenous gospel music. Her unwavering commitment to God’s work has made her an icon in Nigeria and beyond. For over 40 years, she has blessed lives with songs that inspire, uplift, and point people to Christ.

Her story is a reminder that when you follow God’s calling with dedication, you not only touch lives but also build a lasting legacy