The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, has paid a glowing tribute to his wife, Pastor Folu Adeboye, popularly known as Mummy G.O., as she marked her 78th birthday.
In a heartfelt birthday message titled “To My Lover, Foluke,” Pastor Adeboye reflected on nearly six decades of marriage, describing his wife as his closest companion, trusted friend and unwavering partner in ministry. Blueprint reports
The revered cleric said celebrating his wife’s birthday was a personal privilege, noting that after spending 58 years honouring and appreciating her, he was delighted that the rest of the world could now join him in celebrating her remarkable life and contributions.
“Great has been the journey of walking side by side with you. And so today, on your 78th birthday, is a gift to me, to have the world join me in doing what I have spent 58 years doing: celebrating you,” he wrote.
‘You made the burden of ministry lighter’
Pastor Adeboye acknowledged the critical role his wife has played in his ministerial journey, saying her unwavering support had made the enormous responsibilities of leading one of the world’s largest Pentecostal churches much easier to bear.
According to him, their shared commitment to God’s calling has enabled them to walk together in unity, faith and purpose for several decades.
He described their marriage as one directed by God, adding that every stage of their journey together has been illuminated by divine grace.
“With you, the weight of the assignment has always been a lighter cross to carry. Our two have agreed, and so our walking together has been of divine stride, a race continuously illuminated, step after step, decade after decade. My path shines brighter because I walk it with you,” he stated.
Beyond ‘Mummy G.O.’
While millions of Christians around the world know Pastor Folu Adeboye as Mummy G.O., Pastor Adeboye said he has the unique privilege of knowing her beyond the public image.
He described her as not only his wife but also his closest friend, dependable counsellor and steadfast companion who has remained beside him through seasons of triumph and adversity.
The RCCG leader praised her resilience, saying he had watched her strengthen others even during moments when she herself needed encouragement.
He also commended her compassion, wisdom, humility and unwavering faith in God, qualities he said have consistently inspired him throughout their marriage.
“Many people know you as Mummy G.O. I have the privilege of knowing you simply as my wife, my friend, and the person who has stood with me through every challenge, every victory, and every assignment God has given us.
“I have watched you give strength to others even when you were tired yourself. I have seen your quiet sacrifices, your compassion, your wisdom, and your unwavering trust in God. Those are the things that make me thank God for you every day,” he said.
Tribute to a devoted mother and mentor
Pastor Adeboye also paid tribute to his wife’s role as a mother and spiritual mentor, saying her love and dedication have greatly impacted not only their family but also countless Christian homes across Nigeria and beyond.
He noted that their children have enjoyed the blessings of her unconditional love and guidance, while members of the Redeemed Christian Church of God and the wider Christian community have continued to benefit from her devotion to God’s work.
According to him, her willingness to answer God’s call wholeheartedly has strengthened many families and inspired generations of believers.
“Our children have been blessed because of your love. The family of God has been blessed because of your devotion. Countless homes have been strengthened because you answered God’s call with all your heart,” he wrote.
Reflecting on 58 years of marriage
Looking back on their journey together, Pastor Adeboye expressed gratitude to God for blessing him with a wife who has remained faithful through nearly six decades of marriage.
He described her as a source of wise counsel and dependable support, adding that after 58 years together, he continues to discover new reasons to appreciate her.
“Seventy-eight years of your life, fifty-eight years of them beside me, and still I find new reasons to thank God for you. You have been wife, counsel, and companion in every sense the word was ever meant to hold,” he added.
Prayers for greater years ahead
The respected cleric concluded his tribute with heartfelt prayers, asking God to continue strengthening, preserving and blessing his wife in the years ahead.
He prayed that God would grant her renewed strength, lasting peace, abundant joy and continued fruitfulness as she advances in age.
Pastor Adeboye also prayed that she would continue to witness God’s mighty works in her life and remain a blessing to generations to come.
“As you celebrate today, my prayer is simple. May the God whom you have served so faithfully continue to uphold you. May He surround you with His peace, fill your days with fresh joy, strengthen your body, renew your strength, and continue to satisfy you with His goodness.
“May the years ahead be even more fruitful than those behind, and may you continue to see the mighty hand of God at work in your life.
“Thank you for walking hand in hand with me. Happy 78th birthday, my love.”
An enduring partnership in ministry
Pastor Enoch and Pastor Folu Adeboye have been married since 1968 and have served together throughout the remarkable growth of the Redeemed Christian Church of God from a relatively small congregation into one of the world’s largest Pentecostal denominations, with parishes in over 190 countries.
Over the years, Pastor Folu Adeboye has become one of Nigeria’s most respected female Christian leaders, renowned for her mentorship, humanitarian work, advocacy for women and children, and support for missions and Christian family values.
Her 78th birthday has attracted an outpouring of goodwill messages from church members, political leaders, religious organisations and admirers across Nigeria and around the world, many of whom have celebrated her enduring impact on the Christian faith and society.