Mrs. Victoria Olugbemisola Sobowale

Apostolic Mother-in-Israel Victoria Olugbemisola Kaulatu Abeni Sobowale (JP)

7 May 1938 – 27 January 2026

Apostolic Mother-in-Israel Victoria Olugbemisola Kaulatu Abeni Sobowale (JP) was born on 7th May 1938 in Latawa Quarters, Sagamu, Remo, Ogun State, into the distinguished family of Alhaji Hamzat Akinwunmi Paseda and Madam Kaletu Akinwunmi of blessed memory. Her late father was the Olori Omo Oba of the Akarigbo Koyelu Ruling House and Obasegun of Remo Land. She was the first and only daughter in a family of seven children.

She began her education at St. Paul’s Anglican School, Sagamu, and later attended Ijero Baptist School, Apapa Road, Lagos, where she completed her Standard Six education. Driven by compassion and a desire to serve, she proceeded to the General Hospital, Ijebu Ode, where she obtained her Midwifery Certificate.

In 1959, she was traditionally married in Sagamu to her beloved husband of blessed memory, Otunba Francis Olajide Ayoola Sobowale. Shortly after their marriage, the couple relocated to the United Kingdom. While in the UK, she furthered her education in Psychiatric Nursing, demonstrating her lifelong commitment to professional growth and excellence.

In 1970, she returned to Nigeria with her family and began her career at the Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Yaba, Lagos, where she worked diligently from 1971 until 1989. She voluntarily retired due to challenges with her eyesight. Not one to remain idle, she ventured into wholesale trading, establishing Vicky Enterprises, which grew into a notable and successful business.

Faith and Service

Mama was deeply rooted in her Christian faith and remained steadfast in her service to God throughout her life. She was a devoted member of the Christian Social Circle at St. Peter Anglican Church, Isara Remo, Ogun State, and also belonged to the Ladies Christian Workers Union at Holy Trinity Church, Ikate, Lagos.

She was a committed member of Oke Igbala Ayo Spiritual Church of Christ (C&S), where she was honoured as an Apostolic Mother-in-Israel and served as the Otun Iyalode of the Church. She was also a member of the Band of Christian Fellowship and the Band of Holy Mary, serving as Matron to many Bands within the Church. In 2010, she undertook a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, a deeply fulfilling spiritual milestone in her journey of faith.

Family, Leadership and Legacy

Affectionately called “Mummy” and “Grandma,” she was a pillar of strength within the Sobowale, Akinwunmi, and extended families. Among neighbours and community members, she was respected for her wisdom, generosity, and readiness to help. Following her husband’s passing, she courageously stepped into a leadership role within the family, becoming a guiding light and a model of resilience.

She was a trainer per excellence — a mentor who raised not only her six biological children but many others who passed under her tutelage. Her home was a place of nurture, discipline, laughter, and godly counsel. Even in her later years, she continued to pray, fast, counsel, and encourage others.

She had a vibrant personality — diligent, principled, cheerful, and impeccably stylish. She detested dishonesty and remained unwaveringly committed to whatever she set her hands to do. Her life was marked by grace under pressure, generosity in service, and unwavering faith in God.

Despite life’s challenges, she carried herself with dignity and strength. She maintained strong ties with the Koyelu dynasty of the Akarigbo of Remo Land and never failed to call children and grandchildren on their birthdays — a simple but powerful expression of her love and attentiveness.

Spiritual Legacy

Her spiritual will is one of faith, prayer, discipline, and love. God remained the centre of her life until her last days. She embodied the Joy of the Lord, and her presence radiated warmth and peace. To be around her was to encounter encouragement, wisdom, and unwavering belief in God’s faithfulness.

After 87 impactful years, Mama transitioned to glory, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, motherhood, leadership, and integrity. Her life was a testament to God’s grace and faithfulness.

Though she is no longer physically with us, her prayers, teachings, strength of character, and example continue to live on in her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all whose lives she touched.

We celebrate a life well lived.

We honour a matriarch of rare grace.

We give thanks to God for the gift of Apostolic Mother-in-Israel Victoria Olugbemisola Kaulatu Abeni Sobowale (JP).

May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.