Timothy Oluwole Obadare, born in April 1930 in Ilesa, Osun State, Nigeria, was the son of David Obadare, a pastor, and Felicia Obadare, a petty trader. He grew up in a deeply religious household that exposed him early to Christian teachings. His formative years were profoundly affected by a smallpox epidemic that caused him to lose his sight, forcing him to discontinue formal schooling after primary education at the Apostolic Church Primary School, Ise-Ilesa. Despite this challenge, his spiritual upbringing and exposure to church life nurtured in him a passion for Christian ministry and evangelism.
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Call to Ministry and Early Evangelistic Work
In 1949, Obadare experienced what he described as baptism in the Holy Spirit, a defining moment that directed him towards lifelong evangelism. He commenced formal ministry work in 1953 with The Apostolic Church, serving as an evangelist until 1957. During this period, he also attended the Apostolic Church Theological Seminary, receiving essential training in theology and ministerial practice, which laid the foundation for his future preaching and leadership.
In 1957, he joined the Christ Apostolic Church, encouraged by Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola, a leading figure in Nigerian Pentecostalism. Within the CAC, Obadare gained recognition for his passionate sermons focused on salvation, holiness, prayer, and the power of the Holy Spirit, attracting large congregations across Nigeria. His preaching style and unwavering faith quickly made him one of the most respected evangelists in the church.
Formation of WOSEM and National Influence
Obadare’s vision for evangelism extended beyond the CAC. In 1974, following a period of spiritual reflection and fasting, he founded the World Soul-Winning Evangelistic Ministry, WOSEM, officially launching it on 1 August 1974 in Akure, Ondo State. WOSEM became a vehicle for national and international evangelistic outreach, establishing centres across Nigeria and in countries such as Ghana, Liberia, Togo, Benin, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada.
His leadership within WOSEM and his role as General Evangelist of the CAC positioned him as a unifying figure within Nigerian Christianity. He also served as President of the Interdenominational Ministers’ Association of Nigeria, mentoring numerous pastors and Christian leaders and fostering collaboration across denominations.
Theological Focus and Evangelistic Approach
Obadare’s ministry emphasised personal salvation, prayer, holiness, and the work of the Holy Spirit, aligning with Pentecostal theology that had been gaining momentum in Nigeria since the mid-twentieth century. He leveraged mass media, including radio and television broadcasts, to expand the reach of his messages, making him a pioneer among Nigerian televangelists.
His sermons were known for their clarity, spiritual intensity, and relevance to contemporary societal challenges, resonating deeply with Nigerians seeking guidance and hope amidst rapid social and economic changes. While anecdotal accounts attribute miraculous events to his ministry, documented history focuses on his organisational leadership, preaching impact, and role in advancing Pentecostal Christianity.
Honours and Recognition
In recognition of his contribution to Christian ministry, Obadare received several honorary degrees, including an Honorary Doctor of Ministry degree from St John’s University, Missouri, and an Honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from Trinity College of Ministerial Arts, Aba, Nigeria. These honours reflected the national and international recognition of his influence and the respect he commanded within Christian communities.
Later Life and Death
Obadare continued active ministry until his later years, maintaining a schedule of preaching, mentoring, and leading evangelistic campaigns. He passed away on 21 March 2013 at the age of 83 in Akure, Ondo State. His funeral drew widespread attendance from clergy, congregants, and state officials, a testament to the national respect he had earned. He was survived by his wife, Evangelist Elizabeth E. A. Obadare, and several children, leaving behind a family committed to continuing his ministry.
Legacy and Impact
Timothy Oluwole Obadare’s ministry profoundly shaped Pentecostal Christianity in Nigeria. Through the Christ Apostolic Church and WOSEM, he influenced countless Christians and church leaders. His approach to evangelism, combining personal mentorship, large-scale crusades, and media outreach, set a standard for modern evangelists in Nigeria and internationally.
WOSEM continues to operate, sustaining Obadare’s vision for soul-winning and spiritual growth. His preaching and leadership inspired a culture of holiness, disciplined prayer, and evangelistic commitment, leaving an enduring impact on the Christian landscape in Nigeria.
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Author’s Note
Timothy Oluwole Obadare’s life embodies resilience, faith, and visionary leadership. From overcoming blindness in childhood to leading a national and international evangelistic movement, he demonstrated that dedication and spiritual calling can transcend physical limitations. His legacy continues through WOSEM, the Christ Apostolic Church, and the countless leaders he mentored, making him a seminal figure in Nigerian religious history and a model for contemporary evangelism.
References
- Dictionary of African Christian Biography
- Christ Apostolic Church WOSEM Official Records
- Nigerian Evangelical History Archives
