Funeral Arrangements for a Choral Legend

The family of the late Rev. John Adelaja Aina, a distinguished musicologist, composer, conductor, and preacher, has announced a three-day funeral programme to commemorate his life and legacy. The ceremonies are scheduled to take place from September 8 to 11, 2026, in Lagos, marking the final rites for a man who died on May 1, 2026, at the age of 87.

Aina was a respected music minister whose contributions to the Apostolic Faith Church in Africa, choral music, Christian worship, and music education spanned nearly five decades. The funeral programme will commence with a Musical Tribute on Tuesday, September 8, at Tolu Odugbemi Hall, University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos, starting at noon. This tribute is expected to bring together family, colleagues, music professionals, and students to celebrate his enduring influence on church music and choral excellence.

Decades of Musical and Spiritual Leadership

For approximately fifty years, Aina provided leadership to the Apostolic Faith Church Choir and Orchestra, distinguishing himself through his dexterity on the organ and his mastery of musical arrangement. He was widely respected for his creative originality and his extensive knowledge of classical, indigenous, and contemporary music, often combining technical excellence with spiritual depth.

As a conductor, Aina was known for his discipline, precision, and effective interpretation of complex compositions. His leadership helped nurture generations of musicians, choristers, and instrumentalists who benefited from his commitment to musical excellence. Beyond his musical achievements, he was a preacher whose life was characterised by humility, discipline, and dedication to his faith.

Final Services and Commemoration

The final stages of the funeral will include a Service of Songs on Thursday, September 10, at the Apostolic Faith Church, Campground Road, Anthony Village, Lagos, at 4 p.m. The official Funeral Service will follow on Friday, September 11, at 10 a.m. at the same venue’s auditorium. His body will lie in state from 8 a.m. that morning at the Multi-Purpose Hall for well-wishers to pay their final respects.

The family has invited clergy, music scholars, and the general public to join in celebrating a life of remarkable service. They expressed deep appreciation for the support received since the passing of a man they described as a beloved husband, father, and servant of God, viewing the transition through a lens of spiritual hope.

It’s ‘Goodnight’ and not ‘Farewell’.

— The Family, Bereaved Relatives, Rev. John Adelaja Aina Funeral Committee