A Life Dedicated to Sacred Music

After more than five decades of shaping church music and mentoring generations of musicians, Rev. John Adelaja Olugbenga Aina, renowned organist, arranger, conductor, and former Music Director of the Apostolic Faith Church, was laid to rest in Lagos yesterday. Aina, who died on May 1, 2026, at the age of 87, was buried after a funeral service held at the Apostolic Faith Church, Campground Road, Anthony Village.

The service brought together family members, church leaders, musicians, and well-wishers in a ceremony marked by hymns, musical renditions, and testimonies. For the Apostolic Faith Church, the event served as a celebration of an enduring musical legacy that stretched across generations and beyond the borders of Nigeria. His sister, Elizabeth Aina-Scott, captured the essence of his journey during the service.

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.

— Elizabeth Aina-Scott, Sister, Apostolic Faith Church

Building a Continental Musical Heritage

Aina began his service as the official organist of the Apostolic Faith Church in 1959, eventually rising to the positions of Music Director and later Africa Music Director. Under his leadership, the Apostolic Faith Choir and Orchestra underwent a massive transformation, expanding from just eight founding members to an ensemble that currently boasts more than 3,000 members.

While he was best known for his mastery of the organ and his skill as a conductor, Aina’s service to the church was multi-faceted. He served at various times as a Sunday School teacher, preacher, and evangelist. Although he left the stage in October 2005, he officially retired in 2012 after 53 years of dedicated service at the organ.

A Musical Send-off in Anthony Village

The funeral service reflected the deep musical heritage Aina spent his life building. The ceremony opened with the processional hymn, “Who Are These Like Stars,” performed by the congregation and Orchestra. This was followed by a series of technical performances, including a Concertino for Trumpet and Strings and an organ and piano duet titled “Heavenly Tunes.”

The Choir and Ensemble performed “Victory Hooked-On,” one of Aina’s own arrangements, while the Male Choir rendered “The Beautiful Land.” Before the scripture readings and sermon, the Choir and Orchestra delivered a rousing rendition of the “Hallelujah Chorus.” This followed a musical tribute the previous evening, where the Choir and Orchestra held a wake-keeping service featuring various hymnal tributes.

Mentorship and Personal Legacy

During the testimony session, members of the church and the wider musical community shared memories of Aina’s impact. The Elementary Department presented a skit depicting the patriarch, highlighting his love for young people and his commitment to nurturing talent. Those close to him described a man who combined warmth with discipline, insisting on excellence while ensuring those around him felt valued.

Aina was predeceased by his wife, Joan Aina, who died in 2020. He is survived by his children, Jossy Olufunso Aina-Adenuga and Jerry Aina, as well as his grandchildren. The Superintendent General of the Apostolic Faith Church worldwide, Rev. Prof. Sola Adesope, sent a tribute from the Headquarters Church in Portland, Oregon, underscoring the international reach of Aina's service.

In a tribute booklet prepared for the funeral, the family and church community expressed their final sentiments regarding his transition. The outpouring of support from the public was described by the family as a fitting tribute to a life devoted to serving God and humanity.

It is Goodnight, and not Farewell.

— Tribute Booklet, Funeral Committee, Apostolic Faith Church