Nigeria Mourns Ruth Elton, Oldest Serving Missionary, Who Passed Away At 91.
Ruth Elton, revered as Nigeria’s longest-serving missionary, passed away at the age of 91 on Saturday, 30 August 2025, at the Sharon compound in Alafia Bamin Quarters, Ilesa, Osun State. Her death marks the end of an extraordinary life dedicated to spreading the gospel and uplifting communities across Nigeria, leaving behind a legacy that has touched countless lives.
Born on 7 September 1933 in Britain, Ruth was the only child of Sydney Granville Elton, fondly known as Pa Elton, a pioneer of Pentecostal Christianity in Nigeria. She arrived in Nigeria in 1937 at the age of three, accompanying her parents as they answered a divine call to settle in Ilesa. Ruth grew up immersed in missionary work, serving alongside her father, who was an Area Superintendent of The Apostolic Church of Nigeria under Joseph Ayo Babalola. After her father’s death in 1987, she continued his evangelistic mission, choosing to remain in Nigeria for the rest of her life.
Ruth Elton’s contributions spanned Kogi, Ondo, Oyo, and Osun States, where she served in communities such as Egbe, Okene, and Koton Karfe. Renouncing her British citizenship in the 1970s to become a Nigerian citizen, she demonstrated her deep commitment to the country. Fluent in Yoruba and Ebira, she connected profoundly with local communities, earning the affectionate title “Mama Elton.” Her work extended beyond evangelism, with notable efforts in reducing infant mortality in Okene, Kogi State, through grassroots health initiatives.
Choosing a life of celibacy, Ruth dedicated herself entirely to her mission, forgoing marriage and personal comforts to serve rural communities. Her passion for spreading the Christian faith was inspired by her father’s prophecy that Nigeria, despite its challenges, would one day be known globally for righteousness and prosperity. Even in her later years, as her health declined, she remained steadfast, often repeating, “The King is coming, the Kingdom is coming,” during visits from admirers.
The news of her passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from Christian leaders and communities across Nigeria. Many recall her tireless work in establishing churches, mentoring young Christians, and supporting campus fellowships that shaped prominent figures like Benson Idahosa and David Oyedepo. Her home in Ilesa became a pilgrimage site for those inspired by her selflessness, with events like her 80th birthday in 2014 drawing crowds from across the nation to celebrate her enduring impact.
Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State expressed condolences, describing Ruth as a “beacon of faith and service” whose life exemplified sacrifice and love for Nigeria. The Apostolic Church of Nigeria, in a statement, hailed her as a “worthy successor” to Pa Elton, noting her role in sustaining the Pentecostal revival movement. Her remains have been deposited in a local mortuary as preparations for her funeral are underway.
Ruth Elton’s death closes a remarkable chapter in Nigeria’s Christian history. Her lifelong devotion to faith, community development, and cultural integration leaves an indelible mark, inspiring future generations to continue her work. As Nigeria reflects on her legacy, her father’s vision of a nation transformed by righteousness remains a guiding light for many.