Rev. Esther Abimbola Ajayi was born on April 3, 1958, in the Mushin area of Lagos State, Nigeria. Her formative years were spent in Lagos, where she was raised in a devout Christian home.
Her spiritual journey began at a young age through the influence of her grandfather, who introduced her to the Methodist Church. This early exposure laid the groundwork for a life deeply connected to religion.
Education and Spiritual Development
She attended St. Michael’s Catholic School, located in Mushin, where she was baptized. Esther later advanced to Ikeja Senior Grammar School in Bolade-Oshodi in 1974.
Her theological path became clearer when she enrolled at Faith Bible College in Sango-Otta, Ogun State. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biblical Theology from the institution.
Ministry Beginnings and Entrepreneurship
Before devoting her life to ministry, Esther worked in a furniture company and succeeded as an entrepreneur. She built her first house at the age of 25 and supported her parents financially from the age of 20.
Her early business success included a significant transaction with NEPA, which reportedly owed her over 4.2 million Naira. A prophetic message later revealed that the debt would be repaid within seven days, which became a turning point in her life.
Financial Struggles and Divine Calling
Despite her early financial achievements, her business experienced downturns that affected her family. She faced challenges in paying back a bank loan, resulting in monthly interest charges as high as 180,000 Naira.
These financial troubles coincided with repeated spiritual messages urging her to begin preaching. Her resistance reportedly contributed to the obstacles she faced during that period.
Founding the Love of Christ Generation Church
Her ministry officially began on the streets of Lagos following a divine revelation. Another vision pointed her to start preaching in the United Kingdom.
Relocating was a financial challenge, but a royal client in her furniture business helped make the move possible. She and her family relocated to the UK with just 2,000 pounds after selling their Mercedes Benz.
In the UK, she launched the Love of Christ Generation Cherubim and Seraphim Church from her home in Edmonton. The congregation began with 19 members and steadily expanded over time.
By 2017, she returned to Nigeria and continued her ministry, which grew across various regions. She gained recognition for ministering to influential Nigerians like Olusegun Obasanjo and Atiku Abubakar.
Esther Ajayi Net Worth and Wealth Sources
Esther Ajayi’s net worth is estimated between $20 million and $50 million, which is over 9 billion Naira. She acknowledged in an interview that denying her billionaire status would be dishonest.
Her sources of income include ministry-related donations, tithes, and offerings. She is often associated with wealthy political and religious figures, further strengthening this assertion.
Donations, Tithes, and Philanthropy
As is common with many church leaders, part of her wealth comes from donations and tithes. While details of individual contributors are scarce, her affiliations suggest support from high-profile donors.
She is equally committed to giving back and reportedly donates millions every week. Her philanthropy supports market traders, women, and vulnerable individuals, especially in the UK.
Rev. Esther Ajayi derives joy from helping others, a trait that led her to establish the Esther Ajayi Foundation. The foundation is involved in several community upliftment initiatives.
Rumors About Private Jet Ownership
In 2021, speculation arose that Esther Ajayi owned a Challenger 10 or 12-seater private jet. This was fueled by an Instagram post of her entering a private jet with a caption about soaring like an eagle.
She addressed the rumor in a YouTube interview with Celestial Television, clarifying that she charters jets when needed. She emphasized that while a private jet is practical for ministry, she prefers to allocate funds toward social causes.
Personal Life and Family
Esther Ajayi married Rev. Dr. Ademuyiwa Ajayi in 1984. Her husband is a theology lecturer at Faith Bible College, the same school she attended.
Their marriage has lasted over four decades and is blessed with four children and an adopted daughter. Her family has remained integral to her journey both personally and spiritually.
Spiritual Encounters and Miraculous Events
From a young age, she displayed strong spiritual sensitivity. She recalled praying for her critically ill mother, who began to recover the next day.
She also shared a story of helping a pregnant woman overdue for delivery, who gave birth after her prayers. These events affirmed her spiritual calling early in life.
Social Media Presence
Rev. Esther Ajayi maintains an active online presence across multiple platforms. Her Instagram handle is @love_of_christ_generation, while on Twitter she uses @RevEstherAjayi.
She also engages with followers on Facebook under the name Esther Ajayi. Through these platforms, she shares her sermons, philanthropic activities, and religious messages.
Recognition in the White Garment Church
She leads the Love of Christ Generation Church, a recognized Cherubim and Seraphim institution. Her prominence also extends to the Celestial Church of Christ.
Rev. Ajayi is associated with major figures in Nigeria’s religious scene, including Pastor E.A. Adeboye and Bishop David Oyedepo. These associations further elevate her stature within Christian circles.
Return to Nigeria and Cathedral Dedication
After years in the UK, Esther received spiritual direction to return home to Nigeria. This led to the dedication of a new cathedral in Lagos, attracting public attention.
The new place of worship has drawn interest and increased awareness about her ministry.
Article updated 3 months ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
