The saying “what a man can do, a woman can do even better” may not fully apply when it comes to church leadership and administration. Despite the belief that women possess qualities such as spiritual depth, relational skills, integrative thinking, courage, and emotional intelligence—key traits for success, particularly in church ministry—challenges remain. In Nigeria, a country with a rich Christian heritage, women have historically played a significant role in the faith’s growth.
In recent years, more Nigerian women have assumed leadership roles in churches, either by founding their own or inheriting them from their late husbands. Across the country, many women have taken on the role of church overseers after their spouses’ deaths. However, fitting into the shoes left behind by these prominent male founders has proven to be a difficult task. Some have struggled to maintain the large followings their husbands attracted, while others have faced significant challenges in preserving the church’s influence.
### Challenges Faced by Widows in Church Leadership
One common issue is the lack of charisma. Many widows do not possess the same leadership qualities or presence as their late husbands, making it difficult for them to inspire the same level of loyalty from congregations. Additionally, many of these women were not involved in the daily management of the church prior to their husband’s death, leaving them with little experience to guide large congregations.
Succession issues are also prevalent, particularly in patriarchal societies like Nigeria, where some believe women should not lead churches. When prominent pastors die, uncertainty often surrounds leadership transitions, with some members resisting the widow’s authority. These power struggles and leadership challenges have led to declines in church attendance and support in some cases. Moreover, theological differences between the widows and their late husbands can cause dissatisfaction among congregants, making it difficult to maintain unity.
In addition to leading the church, these women also bear the burden of caring for their families and managing church finances. The pressure to uphold their late husband’s legacy while carving out their own path has overwhelmed some, resulting in varying degrees of success.
Prominent Women Church Leaders
1. Margaret Idahosa
Margaret Idahosa, widow of Archbishop Benson Idahosa, took over the Church of God Mission International in 1998, becoming Africa’s first female archbishop. Despite early resistance, Margaret has maintained the church’s growth, overseeing investments in education and healthcare. Although some members challenged her leadership, Margaret’s open approach and dedication to her husband’s legacy have helped her build a lasting ministry.
2. Nkechi Anayo-Iloputaife
After her husband, Bishop Harford Iloputaife, was tragically killed in 1995, Nkechi took over Victory Christian Church. Known for her compassionate leadership, she has supported orphans and provided scholarships to children. However, she has faced challenges maintaining the church’s membership and financial stability, compounded by allegations of nepotism.
3. Evelyn Joshua
Evelyn Joshua assumed leadership of the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN) after the death of her husband, Prophet TB Joshua, in 2021. Though initially viewed as too soft-spoken compared to her charismatic husband, Evelyn has managed to stabilize the church. However, SCOAN has struggled to retain its international standing, with diminished TV viewership and reduced attendance affecting its global influence.
4. Sarah Omakwu
Sarah Omakwu succeeded her husband, Inalegwu Omakwu, at Family Worship Center in Abuja after his death in 2003. Known for her compassionate and charismatic leadership, she has earned the loyalty of her congregation. However, she has faced challenges in expanding the church’s reach beyond its existing members.
5. Mercy Ezekiel
Rev. Mercy Ezekiel became General Overseer of the Christian Pentecostal Mission in 2021 following the death of her husband, Bishop Obiora Ezekiel. She had long been involved in managing the church and founded several outreach programs, including vocational training and a faith clinic. Though she retains a strong following, her leadership has faced resistance and accusations of nepotism.
While some of these women have managed to uphold their late husbands’ legacies, others have struggled to maintain the same level of influence and growth in their ministries. Each story highlights the unique challenges they face in leadership, balancing tradition with the need to create their own legacy.
