Her Eminence, Apostle (Dr.) Esther Badejoko Oluwagbamilowoiya, was the esteemed founder of the Salvation of Christ Mission Assembly (SCMA) Worldwide. A revered prophetess, general evangelist, and astute teacher of the Word, she devoted her life to advancing the kingdom of God.
Early Life
Born in 1931 to Late Pa Ajayi Falodun Agbereokodele and Princess Adekunmola Falodun (née Odundun) of Akure, Ondo State, Mama Bade’s entrance into the world was steeped in divine mystery. Her father, a devout attendee of the renowned Oke Oye Revival of 1930, sought divine intervention for his unborn child. Little did he know that this child, born into a family of egungun (masquerade) worshippers, would become a vessel of God’s transformative power.
At the tender age of ten, Mama experienced an extraordinary vision: seven angels dressed in radiant white garments descended upon her family home in Akure. Her candid recounting of the vision caused uproar, as it coincided with the mysterious death of a child in the family. Many accused her of being an agent of evil, misinterpreting her divine encounter. Her community and spiritual leaders interrogated her, but Mama stood firm in her conviction. This defining moment, though challenging, marked the beginning of her spiritual journey.
Nicknamed “Bade Alasofunfun” (Bade, the white-clothed one), she faced stigmatization and was sent to live with her uncle, Chief Obaloja, where she learned the trade of farming. Despite her lack of formal education, she developed a deep love for Christ while attending Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Oke-Igan in Akure, a pivotal step in her spiritual growth.
Divine Training and Ministry Preparation
Mama Bade’s ministry was a product of divine tutelage. For 13 years, she was taught by the Holy Spirit through dreams, learning to read and write the Bible and gospel hymn books in Yoruba. This heavenly education culminated in her “graduation” in March 1954, as she described it, and prepared her for her spiritual baptism in 1959.
Family and Personal Challenges
In 1957, Mama Bade married Rev. Joseph Olaniyan, a son of Oke-Igbo in Ondo State, who later became a pivotal supporter of her ministry after her first marriage did not produce a child after the demise of her first child at infant. Despite her personal struggles, Mama remained steadfast, interceding for barren women, many of whom were blessed with children even as her own prayers for motherhood remained unanswered.
Eventually, God blessed her with three children, Aanuoluwapo, Oluwafoyekemi, and Oluwagbade who have since followed in her footsteps in ministry.
The Establishment of SCMA
On November 16, 1971, following a divine directive, Mama Bade founded the Salvation of Christ Mission Assembly (SCMA). The ministry began humbly in a room on Ayetoro Street, Akure, where children from the neighborhood made up the initial congregation. Under God’s guidance, the church expanded, relocating to its headquarters at SCMA Oke Anu Hqrs in Ore-Ofe Street, Oke-Ijebu, Akure, and establishing several branches in Nigeria and abroad, including the House of Deliverance in Baltimore, USA.
Mama was known for her unwavering commitment to prayer. For a decade (1968–1978), she ascended the mountain known as Oke Orungajuaye to intercede for Akure, Ondo State, and Nigeria, transforming it into a sacred site now recognized as the Oluwagbamilowoiya International Prayer Ground.
Ministerial Impact and Legacy
Mama’s prophetic gift earned her the nickname “Kekere Emi” (The Eye of the Lord), as her visions and prophecies often came to pass. Known for her fervent fasting and prayer, she was affectionately called “Bade gb’awe, gb’adura” (Bade fasts and prays). She received spiritual impartation from notable servants of God, including Apostle Ayodele Babalola of the Christ Apostolic Church, and became a beacon of hope and restoration for many.
Her contributions extended beyond spiritual matters to community development. She personally financed road grading in Ore-Ofe Street, supported widows, and provided for nursing mothers through the church’s maternity center. Her philanthropic efforts left a lasting mark on her community.
Passion for Akure and Ondo State
Mama Bade’s love for Akure and Ondo State was unparalleled. She organized over 150 intercessory groups to pray for the land’s development and spiritual revival. Her relentless intercession earned her recognition as a spiritual pillar for the region.
Final Years and Transition
Fully aware of her imminent departure, Mama Bade announced her readiness for “homegoing” at the Church National Conference in May 2016. On April 17, 2019, Mama Bade transitioned to glory, leaving a legacy of faith, perseverance, and unwavering devotion to God. She was survived by her three children and numerous grandchildren, who continue to uphold her vision and mission.
A Life Well Lived
Apostle Esther Badejoko Oluwagbamilowoiya’s life was a testament to God’s grace and faithfulness. Her legacy lives on through the Salvation of Christ Mission Assembly, her intercessory work, and her philanthropic contributions. She remains a shining example of a life dedicated to God and humanity.