Stephen Oluwole Akinola

Stephen Oluwole Akinola (4 March 1953 – 6 June 2021) was a Ghanaian-born Nigerian Pentecostal preacher. He was the founder and General Overseer of Redemption Ministries Worldwide.

Akinola received recognition for his contributions to spiritual growth and community development. He was acknowledged for his "commitment to faith and spirituality".

Early life Stephen Oluwole Akinola was born on March 4, 1953, in Tamale, Northern Ghana, to Samuel and Marian Otunde. His early education began at age 4 in Damagos, Ghana. He later attended Government Secondary School, Tamale, before returning to Nigeria in 1971. Upon his return to Nigeria, he became a teacher at the Baptist Primary School, Igboho, Oyo State – his place of origin. In 1973, he pursued further studies at Yaba College of Technology, Lagos.

Ministry Akinola described experiencing a profound religious awakening in 1974: – one of the fastest growing churches in Africa.

In 1977, Akinola played a role in establishing the Deeper Christian Life Ministry in Rivers State. Additionally, the Divine Daughters of Destiny International programme focuses on women’s empowerment and often hosts Reverend Dr. Uma Ukpai as a guest speaker.

Rev Uma and his wife at a Divine Daughters of Destiny International Programme, Omega Beach.

Another initiative is the annual Kabash programme, catering to the spiritual needs of the church’s youth.

Personal life Akinola was married to Matilda Ayebatonye Akinola.

Death Akinola died on June 6, 2021, at a hospital in Abuja. His death was confirmed by his church and other prominent figures, including the former chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Rivers State, Apostle Eugene Ogu. He was interred within the premises of his church. During his funeral, Nyesom Wike of Rivers State, represented by his deputy, Ipalibo Harry Banigo, expressed the state's appreciation for Akinola's impact, highlighting his contributions to spiritual growth and initiatives like the Wind and Fire Conference and Suya Night.

Following his death, Cletus Desmond was ordained as the succeeding General Overseer of Redemption Ministries Worldwide.