Pastor Tunde Bakare Biography: Real Story, Family, Church, Net Worth and Political Journey

You don’t really hear the name Pastor Tunde Bakare and stay neutral. Whether it’s from the pulpit or the political space, one thing is clear, this is someone who has never stayed quiet when it matters. From growing up with almost nothing to standing among Nigeria’s most influential voices, his journey is not one of noise, but of consistent impact backed by strong convictions.

Early Life, Age and Background

Pastor Babatunde Gbolahan Bakare was born on November 11, 1954, in Abeokuta, Ogun State. He grew up in a strict Muslim home where discipline was not negotiable. Life was not comfortable at all, in fact, it was tough to the point where survival itself was something to think about daily.

His mother, Abigail Asabi Bakare, played a major role in shaping his life. She raised him with structure, teaching him how to manage money early and live with integrity. That foundation later showed clearly in how he handles both ministry and public life.

During his school years, he was deeply involved in Islamic activities and even served as an Imam while in secondary school. At that stage, nothing pointed to him becoming a Christian pastor.

Conversion Story That Changed Everything

Everything shifted in 1974.

While working as a photographer in a church, he had a personal encounter that led to him becoming born again. This decision didn’t come easy. It caused serious tension at home, and at some point, he was sent out, leaving him temporarily without a place to stay.

That phase of his life is one of the strongest parts of his story. From rejection and uncertainty, he began building a new path that would later define his purpose.

Education and Legal Career

Pastor Tunde Bakare studied Law at the University of Lagos and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1981. He didn’t just study law, he practiced it actively and made a name for himself early.

He worked with top legal chambers including Gani Fawehinmi’s chambers, where he gained real experience in constitutional law. Not long after, he started his own law firm, known as Tunde Bakare & Co.

Ministry Journey and Church Growth

Before starting his own church, he was deeply involved in ministry work across different Christian circles. He served as a legal adviser in one of the major churches at the time and later became part of a fast-growing church movement where he helped build one of its strongest branches.

In 1989, he officially started The Latter Rain Assembly with just a small group of people. That beginning was very humble, nothing flashy, just pure conviction.

Over time, the church grew and later rebranded to The Citadel Global Community Church. Today, it has become a global platform with a strong focus on teaching, leadership, and national transformation.

His message is not built around trends. It is centered on righteousness, accountability, and nation-building.

Wife, Children and Family Life

Pastor Tunde Bakare is married to Pastor Olayide Bakare, often called Mama B. Their marriage has lasted over four decades, and it’s one built on structure, understanding, and shared purpose.

His wife played a major role in holding the family together, especially during the early years when things were not stable. She stepped back from her career to focus on raising their children and supporting the ministry.

They have five children, and all of them were raised with strong discipline and spiritual guidance. Today, they are adults doing well in their various paths, with some actively involved in ministry and leadership.

Family is something he takes seriously, and it shows in how he speaks about responsibility and legacy.

Political Career and National Influence

Pastor Tunde Bakare is not just a preacher, he is also deeply involved in national matters.

In 2011, he ran as the vice-presidential candidate alongside Muhammadu Buhari. That move placed him directly in Nigeria’s political space.

Over the years, he has continued to speak on governance, leadership, and national direction. He founded movements focused on rebuilding Nigeria and has consistently used his platform to challenge leaders.

One of his known visions is what he calls Project 16, where he openly stated his intention to become Nigeria’s president. Whether people agree with him or not, he has remained consistent in that belief.

Controversies and Public Criticism

You cannot be as outspoken as Pastor Tunde Bakare and not face criticism.

Over the years, he has been involved in several controversial moments. From strong sermons against government leaders to statements that sparked debates across religious and political spaces.

At some point, he criticized certain leaders and later worked closely with them politically, which raised questions. There have also been reactions to some of his comments on national issues.

Despite all that, he has never backed down from speaking his mind. That boldness is what keeps him relevant.

Recent Developments and Why He Still Trends

In recent times, Pastor Tunde Bakare has remained active both in church and national conversations.

He has held high-level meetings with top political figures and continues to address issues affecting the country, especially security and governance.

His broadcasts and public messages still gain attention because of how direct and fearless they are.

Final Thoughts

Pastor Tunde Bakare’s life is not built on noise. It is built on discipline, structure, and strong beliefs.

From growing up in a struggling home to becoming a national voice, his journey shows what consistency and conviction can produce. He is not trying to fit into expectations, he is simply doing what he believes is right, whether people accept it or not.

Love him or question him, one thing is certain — he is not someone you ignore.

Quick FAQs

Where is Pastor Tunde Bakare from?
He is from Abeokuta in Ogun State, Nigeria.

How old is Pastor Tunde Bakare?
He was born on November 11, 1954.

Who is Pastor Tunde Bakare’s wife?
He is married to Pastor Olayide Bakare.

How many children does he have?
He has five children.

What is his church called?
The Citadel Global Community Church, formerly known as Latter Rain Assembly.

Is Pastor Tunde Bakare wealthy?
He is financially stable with business interests, but there is no confirmed public net worth.

Has he been involved in politics?
Yes, he ran as a vice-presidential candidate and remains active in national discussions.

What is Project 16?
It is his vision and declaration about becoming Nigeria’s president.