Prophet TB Joshua Biography: Legacy, Family, and SCOAN in 2026
In the history of global Christianity, few figures have commanded as much attention, devotion, and controversy as Temitope Balogun Joshua, popularly known as Prophet TB Joshua. As the founder of The Synagogue, Church of All Nations (SCOAN) and Emmanuel TV, he transformed a small gathering in a Lagos swamp into a global pilgrimage destination. Even in 2026, years after his passing in June 2021, his influence remains a dominant force in the religious landscape of Africa and beyond.
Key Takeaways: TB Joshua at a Glance
- Born: June 12, 1963, in Arigidi Akoko, Ondo State, Nigeria.
- Transitioned: June 5, 2021 (aged 57).
- Leadership in 2026: SCOAN is currently led by his widow, Pastor Evelyn Joshua, as the General Overseer.
- Global Footprint: Emmanuel TV remains one of the most-watched Christian networks globally.
- Humanitarian Work: Spent billions of Naira on disaster relief, scholarships, and poverty alleviation.
- Net Worth (Historical): Estimated at $150 Million at the time of his passing, primarily invested in ministry infrastructure and charity.
Early Life: The 15-Month Miracle
The biography of TB Joshua begins with a narrative of divine mystery. Born on June 12, 1963, in the village of Arigidi Akoko, Joshua’s birth was reportedly accompanied by supernatural signs. His mother, Folawe, claimed she carried him in her womb for 15 months, a story that many followers view as the first sign of his prophetic calling.
Growing up in extreme poverty, Joshua attended St. Stephen’s Anglican Primary School but was unable to complete more than one year of secondary education due to financial hardship. In his youth, he was known as the “small pastor” because of his intense love for the Bible. Before founding his ministry, he worked on a poultry farm and even attempted to join the Nigerian military, an effort that was thwarted by a divine “train breakdown” that he later claimed was God’s way of redirecting his path.
The Founding of SCOAN: From Humble Beginnings
In 1987, TB Joshua founded The Synagogue, Church of All Nations (SCOAN) with only eight members. The early years were marked by struggle; the first “church” was a simple structure located in a marshy area of Ikotun-Egbe, Lagos.
Despite the physical challenges, Joshua’s reputation for “miraculous healings” and “prophetic accuracy” spread like wildfire. By the early 2000s, SCOAN had become a hub for international visitors. According to the Nigerian Immigration Service, at its peak, six out of every ten international travelers arriving in Nigeria were bound for The Synagogue.
The Global Impact of Emmanuel TV
The launch of Emmanuel TV in 2006 was the catalyst that made TB Joshua a global household name. With the motto “Distance is not a barrier,” the channel broadcasted live deliverance sessions, prophetic words, and humanitarian missions.
Joshua’s reach extended far into Latin America, Southeast Asia, and Europe. He held massive crusades in countries like Mexico, Colombia, and South Korea, often filling Olympic-sized stadiums. His “Anointing Water” and “Anointing Stickers” became symbols of faith for millions, believed to carry the same healing power as his physical touch.
Humanitarian Work and Philanthropy
One of the most defining aspects of TB Joshua’s career was his “obsession” with charity. He famously said, “The beauty of life is not how happy you are but how happy others can be because of you.”
His philanthropic achievements included:
- Disaster Relief: Sending planes loaded with aid to earthquake victims in Haiti and Ecuador.
- Education: Establishing the InnerCity Mission and providing thousands of scholarships for underprivileged students to attend universities worldwide.
- Sports: Founding My People FC, a football club that helped launch the careers of international stars like Ogenyi Onazi and Sani Emmanuel.
Family Life: The Support of Evelyn Joshua
TB Joshua was married to Evelyn Joshua for over 30 years. Their marriage was largely kept out of the tabloid spotlight, with Evelyn serving as a quiet but powerful pillar behind the scenes. Together, they had three children. Their eldest daughter, Sarah Joshua, is a London-trained lawyer, while the younger children have also pursued excellence in their respective academic fields.
Following his death in 2021, a period of leadership transition occurred. In 2026, Pastor Evelyn Joshua has firmly established her role as the leader of the ministry. Under her guidance, SCOAN has continued its weekly services, maintaining the core traditions of deliverance and charity established by her late husband.
2026 Legacy: “The Prophet Lives On”
In 2026, the legacy of TB Joshua is more than just a memory; it is an active institution. While the ministry faced immense scrutiny following documentaries and investigations in 2024, the “Synagogue faithful” remain undeterred. The church’s 2026 theme, “Year of Overflowing Joy,” reflects a focus on moving forward while honoring the foundational teachings of “Let Love Lead.”
Controversies and Triumphs
Like all major historical figures, Joshua’s biography is not without debate. From the 2014 building collapse to criticisms of his miracle claims, he was a polarizing figure. However, for his millions of followers, he remains the “Man in the Synagogue”—a symbol of hope for the hopeless.
Quick Facts Table: Prophet TB Joshua
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Temitope Balogun Joshua |
| Birth Date | June 12, 1963 |
| Hometown | Arigidi Akoko, Nigeria |
| Spouse | Evelyn Joshua |
| Organization | SCOAN / Emmanuel TV |
| Transition Date | June 5, 2021 |
| 2026 Leader | Pastor Evelyn Joshua |
