By Adeoye Ado

For Nigerian gospel singer, Ayomide Akande, widely known as God’s Elect, music is not just a career, it is a divine assignment inspired by spiritual encounters and rooted in dreams.
In a chat with Friday Extravaganza, the vibrant singer explained that her journey into gospel music was never fuelled by a thirst for fame or accolades but by the need to obey a higher calling.
“My inspiration comes from my best friend, the Holy Spirit,” she said with conviction. “As a composer, I receive songs through dreams as well. They’re not just melodies, they are divine messages meant to uplift and heal.”
Akande, who describes herself as a vessel rather than an entertainer, stressed that true gospel songs are those that come from a deep place of spiritual connection.
“It is not about record-breaking,” We are called to touch lives, transform souls and revive broken hearts. That’s the true mission, he emphasised.”
The singer admitted she has drawn influence from veteran gospel artistes such as Shola Allyson and her mother, but insisted the Holy Spirit remains her only guide.
“I don’t have an earthly mentor. My direction comes directly from the Holy Spirit. My mum played a huge part in building my spiritual foundation and I’m forever grateful to her for that,” she stated.
Recounting the struggles she faced at the early stage of her ministry, Akande said discouragement came often but could not deter her from her path.
“There were times I doubted my calling,” she recalled. “But I held onto the word of God. The Bible says we must not despise the days of little beginnings. That has kept me going. Anyone who wants to be great must have a scar and a testimony.”
Calling on her colleagues in the gospel music scene, the singer cautioned against chasing clout and advised artistes to remain focused on their spiritual mandate.
“This is not a platform for self-glorification Gospel music is a ministry, not mere entertainment. We carry a mantle and we must reflect God’s heart to the people, she warned.”
Akande concluded with a call for a return to spiritual roots: “We must go back to the source, Jesus Christ. Anything done outside Him is empty.”