Toun Soetan: Nigerian Gospel Music Industry Thrown Into Mourning Again As Singer Passes Away At 73

Veteran Nigerian gospel singer Toun Soetan has passed away at the age of 73, leaving the African gospel music community in deep mourning. Her death was confirmed on March 13, 2026, by colleagues and members of the Christian music industry, sparking a wave of tributes from fans, ministers, and fellow gospel musicians who described her as a pioneer of indigenous gospel worship.

Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Toun Soetan popularly known as Evangelist Shouet devoted more than four decades of her life to gospel music ministry. Her journey in music was deeply rooted in Christian faith, and her songs became widely recognized for their spiritual depth, scriptural inspiration, and ability to inspire congregational worship across Nigeria and beyond.

One of her most enduring contributions to gospel music is the beloved Christian chorus “Darling Jesus,” a song that has been sung in churches around the world for decades. The simple yet powerful worship song became a staple in Christian gatherings, revival meetings, and prayer sessions, cementing Soetan’s legacy as one of the composers who shaped modern African gospel worship.

Beyond “Darling Jesus,” the veteran gospel minister also released several influential worship songs including “Ke Pe Jesu” and “Cast Your Burdens.” These songs gained popularity particularly in the early 1990s, when her music began to resonate strongly with Christian communities seeking spiritually uplifting indigenous worship expressions.

Aside from her musical accomplishments, Toun Soetan was also a respected evangelist and mentor. She served as the Minister in Charge of Trinity World Evangelical Ministry, where she dedicated her life to preaching, teaching, and nurturing younger gospel ministers. She also established a music college where she trained many gospel singers and instrumentalists who have gone on to become notable figures in the gospel music ministry.

Her passing has been described as a huge loss to the Nigerian gospel industry. Tributes continue to pour in from across the Christian community, with many remembering her as a humble servant of God whose music and teachings impacted generations of believers.

Though she is gone, the legacy of Evangelist Toun Soetan lives on through the timeless worship songs she left behind. Her voice, ministry, and influence will remain a lasting testimony of a life devoted to spreading the gospel through music.