Elijah Abina
Elijah Oludele Abina | |
|---|---|
| Born | June 16, 1935 Aradagun, Badagry, Lagos State, Nigeria |
| Other names | Baba Abina |
| Occupation | Clergyman |
| Years active | 1962–present |
| Known for | General Overseer of The Gospel Faith Mission International (GOFAMINT), founding figure of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) |
Elijah Oludele Abina (born 16 June 1935) is a prominent Nigerian clergyman who serves as the General Overseer of The Gospel Faith Mission International (GOFAMINT) and is also one of the founding figures of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN).
Early life
Elijah was born in Aradagun, Badagry, Lagos State, Nigeria, to Pa Abraham Akowanu Abina and Madam Omoloto Abina. He altered his middle name to Oludele as a deliberate rejection of associations with idol worship. As a pioneer member, he played a key role in establishing GOFAMINT.
In October 1962, Abina transitioned to full-time ministry within GOFAMINT after resigning from his position at Arbico Limited, Apapa, Lagos. His pastoral assignments included leading GOFAMINT’s Iwaya Church in 1963 and Mushin Church in 1966, before advancing to the role of District Overseer. He was appointed deputy General Overseer by Reuben George and served in this capacity until George’s passing in 1987. Following this, by unanimous decision of the Executive Council, Abina was elevated to General Overseer and officially installed on 8 January 1988 at the GOFAMINT International Gospel Centre located in Ojoo, Ibadan, Oyo State. Commonly referred to as Baba Abina, he is widely respected for delivering uncompromised biblical teachings.
Personal life
On 30 March 1961, Abina married Felicia Abina (née Akinremi), with whom he had six children. Felicia passed away in June 2014.