Prophet T.B. Joshua Biography, Net Worth, And Ministry Highlights

Few names in Nigerian Christianity have attracted as much attention, controversy, and global influence as Prophet Temitope Balogun Joshua, popularly known as T.B. Joshua. For decades, he was one of the most popular religious figures in Africa, founder of The Synagogue, Church of All Nations (SCOAN), and a televangelist whose messages and miracles reached millions across the world through his channel, Emmanuel TV.

Loved by many and criticized by some, Prophet T.B. Joshua was a man whose life story—from humble beginnings in a small Nigerian village to becoming one of the most recognized Christian leaders in the world—is nothing short of remarkable. His ministry attracted world leaders, celebrities, and multitudes of ordinary people seeking healing, deliverance, and spiritual direction.

In this article, we’ll explore his biography, net worth, and ministry highlights, alongside his enduring impact on Nigerian and global Christianity.

Early Life and Background

Temitope Balogun Joshua was born on June 12, 1963, in Arigidi Akoko, Ondo State, Nigeria. His early years were marked by hardship and poverty. He often described himself as a “child of destiny,” having survived many unusual experiences growing up.

According to his testimony, he spent 15 months in his mother’s womb before birth, which his family believed marked him out as special. At school, he was nicknamed “small pastor” because of his unusual interest in the things of God.

T.B. Joshua attended St. Stephen’s Anglican Primary School in Arigidi Akoko but was unable to further his education beyond secondary level due to financial constraints. Despite this, he was determined to fulfill his divine calling.

Call to Ministry

In 1987, after a series of visions and revelations, T.B. Joshua felt called by God to start his ministry. With little more than faith, he founded The Synagogue, Church of All Nations (SCOAN), a Christian ministry that would later grow into a megachurch attracting thousands weekly.

He started in a small, makeshift building in Lagos with only a handful of members. Over time, through what many described as “miracles, healings, and prophetic messages,” the church grew massively. Today, SCOAN is recognized as one of the largest congregations in Nigeria, with an international reputation.

The Synagogue, Church of All Nations (SCOAN)

SCOAN became more than just a local church—it was an international spiritual hub. Every week, thousands of worshippers from across Nigeria and abroad flocked to the church’s headquarters in Ikotun-Egbe, Lagos.

Highlights of SCOAN’s ministry included:

Healing services: Where people testified of miraculous recovery from sicknesses.

Deliverance sessions: Addressing spiritual bondage and oppression.

Prophetic declarations: T.B. Joshua was widely known for specific prophecies about individuals, nations, and global events.

Charity and humanitarian works: SCOAN ran food distribution programs, scholarships, disaster relief, and medical assistance to the poor.

Through Emmanuel TV, SCOAN’s ministry reached millions of homes globally, broadcasting services, miracles, and teachings. This made T.B. Joshua a household name not only in Nigeria but also in Latin America, Asia, and Europe.

Teachings and Ministry Style

T.B. Joshua’s messages focused on faith, holiness, and dependence on God. He emphasized practical Christianity—where love, charity, and forgiveness were central.

His ministry style was unique:

He was hands-on in prayers for healing and deliverance.

He often demonstrated “word of knowledge,” revealing specific details about people’s lives.

He placed a strong emphasis on “faith in action”—believing that true Christianity must be seen in how believers live and help others.

This style attracted both admiration and criticism. While millions believed in his calling, others (including some Christian leaders) questioned his methods and authenticity. Despite this, his influence continued to grow.

Global Recognition and Influence

T.B. Joshua was not just a Nigerian pastor; he was a global figure.

World Leaders and Celebrities: Presidents, politicians, and celebrities visited SCOAN for prayers. Notable figures included the late John Atta Mills (former President of Ghana) and others across Africa.

International Crusades: He held massive gospel crusades in countries like Ghana, South Africa, Indonesia, and Colombia, where stadiums filled up with people eager to hear him.

Media Influence: Emmanuel TV became one of the most-watched Christian channels worldwide, extending his reach to millions.

In 2008, The BBC described SCOAN as Nigeria’s biggest tourist attraction, second only to the oil industry, due to the sheer number of foreign visitors coming for spiritual purposes.

Philanthropy and Humanitarian Works

One of the strongest aspects of T.B. Joshua’s life was his commitment to charity. Through his ministry, he invested heavily in humanitarian works, which earned him love and respect across the world.

His efforts included:

Scholarships for underprivileged children.

Healthcare support, including paying for surgeries and hospital bills.

Food distribution programs to widows, orphans, and the needy.

Disaster relief efforts, including sending aid to victims of earthquakes, floods, and other crises globally.

Community empowerment projects such as vocational training and financial support for small businesses.

For T.B. Joshua, ministry wasn’t just about preaching but about showing God’s love through action.

Books and Writings

While T.B. Joshua was not a prolific author compared to some Nigerian pastors, his teachings were documented through Emmanuel TV broadcasts and SCOAN publications. He also published devotionals and messages that were circulated among his followers. His sermons remain widely available online and continue to inspire many.

Net Worth

Like many Nigerian megachurch pastors, T.B. Joshua’s wealth was often a topic of speculation. Different sources have placed his net worth between $10 million to $25 million (₦15 billion – ₦38 billion) as of the time of his passing in 2021.

His wealth came primarily from:

Offerings and tithes from his large congregation.

Emmanuel TV broadcasts and media.

International crusades and ministry partnerships.

Despite his wealth, he was known for his modesty and generosity. Unlike some flamboyant pastors, T.B. Joshua lived a relatively simple lifestyle and reinvested much of his wealth into charity.

Death and Funeral

On June 5, 2021, Prophet T.B. Joshua passed away at the age of 57, just a week before his 58th birthday. His death shocked millions of followers worldwide.

His funeral, held in Lagos, was attended by dignitaries, world leaders, and thousands of mourners from across the globe. Even in death, his legacy sparked global conversations about faith, miracles, and the impact of Nigerian Christianity.

Ministry Highlights

Founder of SCOAN: Built one of the largest and most influential churches in Africa.

Emmanuel TV: Reached millions globally with the gospel message.

Healing and Deliverance Ministry: Famous for testimonies of miraculous healings.

Prophetic Ministry: Known for bold prophecies about nations and events.

Global Crusades: Drew stadium-sized crowds in various countries.

Charitable Works: Invested heavily in education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation.

Tourism Impact: Attracted international visitors to Nigeria, boosting the local economy.

Impact on Nigerian Christianity

Prophet T.B. Joshua left an indelible mark on Nigerian and African Christianity. He showed that ministry could transcend borders, drawing people from diverse cultures. His work also highlighted the power of media in spreading the gospel.

While he faced criticism from some Christian leaders, his unwavering focus on love, charity, and faith-in-action won him millions of loyal followers. Today, his legacy continues through SCOAN, Emmanuel TV, and the countless lives transformed by his ministry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who was Prophet T.B. Joshua?

He was a Nigerian pastor, founder of The Synagogue, Church of All Nations (SCOAN), and a global televangelist.

2. What was T.B. Joshua’s net worth?

Estimates ranged from $10 million to $25 million at the time of his death.

3. How did T.B. Joshua die?

He passed away on June 5, 2021, in Lagos, shortly after a church service.

4. What is Emmanuel TV?

It is the television network founded by T.B. Joshua, used to broadcast his sermons and miracles worldwide.

5. What was his greatest legacy?

His combination of healing ministry, prophecy, charity, and global evangelism.

Conclusion

Prophet T.B. Joshua was a man who rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most recognized Christian leaders in the world. Through his ministry at SCOAN and Emmanuel TV, he impacted millions of lives with his messages of faith, healing, and love.

Though controversial at times, his heart for the poor, his commitment to humanitarian work, and his bold prophetic ministry ensured that his name would never be forgotten. More than his net worth, his true wealth lies in the millions of lives touched and transformed.

His life is a powerful reminder that God can use anyone—no matter their background or limitations—to bring light to the world.