"Praising God—because it’s a gift from Him and the Holy Spirit fuels it" - Adedapo Ibukunoluwa

In our interview today, we have the opportunity to have Ministrel Adedapo Ibukunoluwa as our guest and she shares with us her music ministry journey as a Gospel minister. 

INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND

Can we meet you? (Please, introduce yourself by sharing your name, date of birth - year is optional -, hometown, educational background, marital status, and anything else you'd like us to know about you)

Guest: I am Adedapo Ibukunoluwa Gloria, an indigene of Ibadan, Oyo state. I was born on the 23rd of February, and I am a graduate of Ladoke Akintola University. Obviously, I am not married. 

That 'obviously part though.' So, tell us more about what you do. 

Guest: I am a music minister, a hairstylist, and I also run an online fashion accessories business.

Wow. That's fantastic. Running an online fashion accessories business and being a music minister at the same time. Wow. 

Let's talk about Journey in the Ministry. 

Many started their music journey by joining the choir in their church back home. As a music minister, how did you start your journey and when did it start? 

Guest: My music journey started when I was in the children's choir. I received a prophecy back then, acted on it, and by God’s grace, took it to another level.

What sparked your interest to do music for God? Why not something else?

Guest: As a believer, I know that walking in God's plan is the only way I can truly feel fulfilled. Honestly, I sometimes wish I could do something else aside from music—I just want to live freely and enjoy life. But who am I to say no to my Maker?

Wow. So, He called and you answered. How long have you been in the music ministry? 

Guest: As I mentioned earlier, I’ve been involved since childhood, but I officially started the ministry properly about four years ago.

Do you remember your first official ministration? Can you share it with us?

Guest: Sure! It was hilarious. I followed a music minister to a program, and they promised to include my name among those who would minister. When I was called, the unexpected happened—as it does for many during their first ministration—but God helped me navigate through it. And here we are now.

Glory to God! First ministrations are always different. Do you have a band or you do the ministry with trusted friends and colleagues?

Guest: My music ministry is properly structured because our God loves order. So yes, I have a band.

Interesting. Let's talk about challenges.

Have you ever faced criticism since you started? 

Guest: Yes, I’ve faced criticism in our choir department, which I think is normal. Some were constructive, others were not. I always take the constructive ones as advice given in love and try to improve. I discard the others. Criticism helps you do better, so it’s actually a good thing.

I agree with your last point. What did you learn from the experience? 

Guest: I learned to be more patient and to move closer to my Maker. I always take the constructive ones as advice given in love and try to improve, while discarding the destructive ones. "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God" (Matthew 5:9).

Have you ever felt out of place for being a Gospel music Minister? Was there a time you were criticized for choosing Gospel?

Guest: No, I’ve never felt that way because I believe I’m walking in God’s plan for my life.

So, how do you balance the desire for excellence in your work with God's expectation and people's expectations?

Guest: There’s a prayer I always pray: I don’t want to operate in the flesh, but according to His will. And God has been helping me. My focus is on edifying and blessing the brethren—not entertaining them. I am a minister of God through songs.

As a music Minister that focuses on edifying and blessing the brethren, you will be in many places. How do you balance that with other aspects of your life without any part suffering?

Guest: God has been my help, and He is still helping me. With the help of my team, multitasking has been easier. I thank God every day for the gift of my band.

That's really beautiful. God will continue to help you, ma. Let's talk about MENTORSHIP AND LEADERSHIP.

How do you cope with organizing your music ministration?

Guest: That? God has been helping.

Hallelujah! Well, with such a ministry, I believe there must be a mentor. 

Guest: Definitely. I have a mentor who has gone ahead of me and helps me navigate the challenging parts of ministry.

So, how do you discern whether a creative project or opportunity aligns with your values and calling as a music Minister?

Guest: I still remember the things God told me when I was about to start, so anything that doesn’t align with that is a no for me. I also check if it aligns with scripture, and I pray for divine direction.

Hmmm. The word of the Lord is the standard. Let's talk about Training and discipline.

What are the spiritual training and practices you do to enhance your gift?

Guest: I study the Word, pray, fast, and seek God’s guidance to continually grow and develop my gifts for His glory.

What about physical trainings and practices that you do to enhance your gift? Any seminar or conference?

Guest: I hold frequent rehearsals with my band. I also attend seminars and conferences.

Are there any upcoming projects or initiatives you'd like to share with our audience?

Guest: Well, I had my annual concert titled POWER IN PRAISE (PIP’25). It started three years ago after a powerful encounter with God. By God’s special grace, the 2025 edition was held in Ogbomoso.

Oh this is beautiful. If you're to do one thing over and over again without hesitation, what would it be?

Guest: Praising God—because it’s a gift from Him and the Holy Spirit fuels it. I do it effortlessly with God’s help. So yes, I would say singing to the Lord.

Oh, let every thing that breathes praise the Lord! Please, give a word of advise or prayer to those who are also on this path and to those hoping to take this path too someday

Guest: Music ministry is different from music as a career. As a music minister, your goal is to edify the brethren through songs—not to entertain. Focus on blessing lives, not just putting on a show. You may seem old-fashioned, but you can never go wrong with God’s plan. Keep your eyes on the goal and stay in tune with the Holy Spirit. I pray you’ll see God’s hand in all you do, in Jesus’ name, and receive all the help you need.

Please, Kindly share the link of your trainings or work for publicity purpose. 

Guest: My music ministry handle is @dapogloria on Instagram. My jewelry business page is “Goldie Empire” on TikTok. I’m sure we can connect on either platform, depending on your preference and the topic you want to discuss.

Thank you so much for your time, ma. 

Thank you so much for coming, ma