Tributes have continued to pour in for veteran Nigerian gospel musician Toun Soetan following news of her passing at the age of 73, with fellow gospel minister Tope Alabi describing her as a spiritual mother and an influential figure in the gospel music community.
Alabi shared an emotional tribute on Instagram, where she reflected on Soetan’s life, faith, and lasting impact on gospel music ministry. According to her, the late singer’s life embodied Christian values and devotion to spreading the gospel through music.
“She was a true spiritual mother and a matriarch in gospel music,” Alabi wrote. “Her life was a reflection of Christ, and her impact in the gospel music ministry will never be forgotten. She lived for Christ and preached Him through her life and music.”
The gospel singer added that while Soetan’s death is deeply felt, believers take comfort in the conviction that she has gone to be with the Lord.
“Though we will miss her, we are comforted knowing she has gone to be with the Lord. Rest well, Mama. Your legacy lives on,” she added.
News of Soetan’s passing was earlier confirmed by gospel comedian Woli Agba in a social media post on Friday.
During her lifetime, Soetan built a reputation as one of the respected voices in Nigerian gospel music. She was widely known for inspirational songs such as “Train Up Your Child” and “Darling Jesus,” which resonated with audiences and ministries across the country.
Over the course of more than four decades, the singer dedicated her life to gospel music, using her platform to spread Christian teachings and encourage faith through song.
Born in Lagos, Soetan was raised in a Muslim household before converting to Christianity in 1974. Her conversion marked a turning point that eventually led her into gospel music ministry, where she became a prominent and influential figure.
The late singer is survived by her husband, family members, and a large community of gospel ministers and admirers whose lives were impacted by her music and ministry.