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Pastor Jimmy Odukoya Introduces New Wife to Lagos Congregation

Fountain of Life Church senior pastor Jimmy Odukoya presented his new wife, Pastor Mo Odukoya, to his congregation during a Sunday service, a move that has drawn wide reactions online.

Pastor Jimmy Odukoya Introduces New Wife to Lagos Congregation
Ethan Doyle White — commons.wikimedia.org · CC BY-SA 4.0

Pastor Jimmy Odukoya, senior pastor of Fountain of Life Church in Lagos and a former Nollywood actor, has introduced his new wife, Pastor Mo Odukoya, to his congregation. He brought her to the altar during the Sunday service on November 1, 2026, and the introduction has prompted strong reactions on social media across Nigeria.

The introduction followed a day after Odukoya posted a photo of two hands wearing rings online. The image sparked speculation about his relationship status. Addressing the congregation, he answered the questions directly. “I was looking and searching, and I found,” he said. Referring to those who had wondered whether the photo was staged, he added: “Some people said is it artwork, no it’s my wife.” He then presented her as “Pastor Mrs. Odukoya, a new first lady, my wife. Pastor Mo Odukoya.” The title of first lady signals her new role within the church, a position traditionally held by the wife of a senior pastor.

Reports say the marriage took place in the United States and was blessed by Pastor Tunde Bakare, General Overseer of The Citadel Global Community Church. Bakare reportedly said the new wife is the daughter of Reverend Theophilus and Bolaji Daniel. Some outlets have referred to her as Pastor Mo Jasmine, a variation in naming that has added to the public discussion. Neither Odukoya nor Fountain of Life Church has released further details about the wedding ceremony, including its date or guest list.

Odukoya’s personal history is part of the wider conversation. He was previously married to Oluwakemi Sade Banjoko, popularly known as Kemi Odukoya. The couple wed in London in March 2013, had two children together and later separated. Odukoya later took over as senior pastor of Fountain of Life Church after the death of his father, Pastor Taiwo Odukoya, so his leadership of the congregation is tied to a family succession as well as his own ministry.

The news has divided Nigerians online. Many congratulated the couple, while others commented on the new wife’s appearance and on the question of divorce among church leaders. The exchange reflects the attention that personal lives of prominent religious figures attract in Nigeria, where pastors often hold a visible role both in their communities and in social media debate. The church itself has not publicly responded to the online commentary, and no further statements from the couple have been reported.

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Julian Lindner

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Editorial Writer

Julian Lindner covers public affairs, politics, business, culture and daily news for Hochland. The role focuses on verification, context, and clear explanations for readers.