Bakare Boluwatife Oluwatobi, popularly known as BBO, has steadily grown into one of the most sought-after gospel artistes in Nigeria, with his sound of worship, deep lyrics and strong spiritual impact.
BBO who is from Ijebu in Ogun State was raised in a Christian home where worship and prayer were part of everyday life. Though he initially explored interests in MCing and acting, music and worship later took center stage in his life.
His defining moment came during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Faced with financial pressure and personal challenges, BBO turned fully to God, retreating to a prayer mountain in Ibadan for a three-day intensive prayer session. That encounter marked a turning point, as his passion for worship was renewed and his sense of calling became clearer.
Quietly, BBO began leading worship in church gatherings, largely unnoticed by the public. However, his grandmother, a strong spiritual influence in his life, constantly reminded him that God often refines His servants in secret before bringing them to the open. That season of preparation would later speak loudly.
In 2023, BBO received a life-changing call from popular Christian comedian and revivalist, Woli Arole, inviting him to join a worship session. Though initially hesitant, BBO accepted the invitation. During that session, he led a heartfelt chant, “Igbatoba Tewalorun”, a simple but powerful declaration of God’s supremacy. A short video of the worship moment was later shared online and soon went viral across TikTok, Instagram and YouTube, drawing testimonies from people around the world.
As his influence expanded, BBO began collaborating with other well-known gospel artistes in Nigeria. He has worked with Emma Oh My God, Peterson Okopi, P Daniel, Yinka Alaseyori, Bidemi Olaoba, Pelumi Deborah and many others, collaborations that have further strengthened his visibility and credibility in the gospel music space. These collaborations, often centered around deep worship and revival, have made him a favorite choice for major gospel events, church programs and special praise gatherings.
BBO’s growing acceptance has also taken him beyond Nigeria’s borders. In April 2024, he travelled to the United Kingdom for the first time, and later ministered at the UK edition of “Praise The Almighty”, hosted by gospel icon Evangelist Tope Alabi, with many other global ministrations after that. His ministration reportedly leaves a great impact on members of the Nigerian diaspora, many of whom described the moment as spiritually refreshing.
What continues to set BBO apart is his belief that worship is more than music. To him, worship is spiritual warfare and a tool for deliverance. This conviction reflects clearly in his songs and live ministrations, drawing people not just to enjoy the music but to experience God.
Promise Babatunde
