Born into the humble family of Chief and Mrs. Victoria Alasala Itadare of Ido Ajinare; now Ido Ile in Ekiti State; Evangelist Margaret Abiola Awe’s journey is one woven with faith, perseverance, and grace. Though there was early confusion about her birth year, between 1961 and 1965, she eventually accepted October 10th, 1965, as the most likely date. Her story, however, transcends time and numbers; it is one of divine direction and resilience from the farmlands of Ekiti to the classrooms and altars of Lagos.
Growing up, her father was a renowned farmer and hunter, blessed with livestock and rich fields. Their meals were mostly pounded yam, a delicacy they once mistook for hardship, not realizing they were being nourished with wholesome, natural food. He was a man of discipline, a father to nineteen children from six wives, yet a peacemaker who raised his family in harmony and love. “There was no enmity among his wives and children,” she often recalls. Her father taught them respect, unity, and prayer; values that would later define her character.
Every morning, before sunrise, he gathered the family for devotion. The rosary was recited faithfully at 5 a.m., and each child had a Bible. Those early seeds of faith, though quietly planted, would blossom years later into a deep spiritual calling.
Early Steps of Purpose
Evangelist Awe’s academic journey began at St. Andrew’s Primary School in Oropa Ido Ayegunle, Ondo State, before completing her elementary education at Odogbo. Her secondary education took her to Erijiyan Ikogosi High School. Afterward, she studied typing and shorthand in Ado Ekiti — a skill that would later open unexpected doors.
Marriage brought her to Lagos, where she would discover her path to education and ministry. While supporting her mother-in-law’s family during weekends; cooking and helping with chores; she unknowingly caught the attention of her mother-in-law’s husband, the late Baba Fatoki, a headteacher. He saw diligence and humility in her, and one day asked what she was doing for a living. When she mentioned her petty trade in Badagry, he advised her to consider working in a school.
The following Monday, she resumed at Ewutuntun Primary School as a non-teaching staff. But destiny had greater plans. When the school was organizing its first merit award, she volunteered to type her boss’s retirement letter. Her neat work caught everyone’s attention. Soon after, she became the school’s typist, thanks to Mr. Fasuyi and Mr. Ariyo, who both recognized her potential. Her career gradually evolved, from typist to teacher; and eventually she obtained her NCE qualification, fulfilling a lifelong dream she never imagined possible as a young village girl.
Faith and Divine Calling
Evangelist Awe’s teaching and faith journeys are deeply intertwined. Her personal encounter with Christ came through dreams. Once fond of jewelry, she noticed strange occurrences — missing earrings, sudden fevers; after her father’s passing. These experiences, though mysterious, led her to spiritual reflection and surrender.
At the time, she attended Foursquare Gospel Church under the late Pastor Kehinde Aina, who prophetically told her she would one day serve God in ministry. She initially brushed it aside, believing her role was limited to caring for ministers and cooking for them. Yet, destiny had its own timeline. Her commitment to the children’s department at church, combined with her passion for education, made her a vessel for nurturing both intellect and spirit.
“Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates,” says Proverbs 31:31 — a verse that now mirrors her life’s testimony.
Challenges, Marriage, and Ministry
As a girl child, she faced no serious hardship, being her father’s beloved. But marriage, as she admits, came with its lessons. “It is by prayer and patience,” she reflects. Her father had advised her to endure and stay calm in all situations; wisdom that preserved her home.
She credits her mentors and supportive in-laws for helping her weather difficult moments. “There were times I felt like giving up,” she says, “but when you have good mentors, the journey becomes easier.”
Over the years, she served faithfully as a wife, mother, and minister. Her life reflects the quiet strength of women who balance duty with faith, shaping homes, hearts, and futures through perseverance and prayer.
Life in the Classroom
For Evangelist Awe, teaching was never just a profession; it was a ministry. She believed in discipline, but always with love. In her early years at Hope Primary School, she became known for motivating children with kind words, small gifts, and prayers. “I love children. I correct them with love and reward effort with biscuits or coins,” she recalls warmly.
Many of her former students have grown to become successful professionals; one she proudly encountered years later working at Polaris Bank. “Each time I stepped into my class, I prayed for every child,” she says, a smile often following the memory.
Her Christian values also shaped her lessons. Through subjects like Bible Knowledge, she used education as a medium to point children to God. “It’s the best thing a teacher can do,” she insists, “to talk to them about godliness, especially in a world that’s drifting away.”
Reflections on Teaching and Faith
Evangelist Awe believes that faith and teaching must coexist. Her years in public education taught her that the classroom is one of the most powerful platforms for shaping character. She laments the decline of missionary schools, recalling how churches once supported and encouraged teachers. “We used to enjoy a sense of family from the church-run schools,” she says. “Now, there’s little or no connection.”
Her call to government is clear: prioritize teachers’ welfare and invest in the future of the young. “Many children have lost interest in education,” she says, “and until we motivate them, we can’t rebuild the system.”
Retirement and Gratitude
After decades of service, Evangelist Awe retired from Ireakari Estate Model School, Ishagatedo, Isolo, Lagos; closing one chapter but opening another in her journey with God.
“My plan is to serve God for the rest of my life,” she affirms. Though she has considered going into business, she feels restrained by divine leading. “The work of God continues, and by His grace, those around me will not be left behind.”
In her reflective note, she expresses gratitude to all who have walked with her through life’s seasons; colleagues, family, church members, and community. “No one succeeds alone,” she says softly. “I am grateful for every person God used to shape me.”
Her humility is striking, her words seasoned with quiet wisdom. “To young ladies,” she advises, “be content with what your parents can provide and give your life to Christ.” To married women: “Be patient, be submissive, and never be idle.” To elders: “Share your experiences with the younger ones; it helps them grow.”
A Legacy of Light
Evangelist Awe believes Christian teachers must remain the “salt and light” in their schools. “It must show that we are believers,” she emphasizes. Her entire career bears that mark — of consistency, compassion, and conviction.
She remains a proud advocate for public schools, urging parents not to underestimate their value. “We have quality teachers there,” she insists, “and by God’s grace, the children are doing well.”
From a little girl on her father’s farm in Ekiti to an evangelist shaping lives in Lagos, her story is proof that purpose is never hidden; it only awaits obedience.
As the Bible reminds us, the works of the virtuous shall praise her in the gates. Evangelist Mary Abiola Awe’s life continues to do just that; speaking volumes long after the classroom bell has rung its final tone.
Reported by ABNews
