13/05/2025
Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo: A Former Muslim Who Became a Global Christian Leader
Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo (born 17 March 1952) is a renowned Nigerian-born clergyman and the founder of Kingsway International Christian Centre (KICC), one of the most influential Pentecostal churches in the United Kingdom.
Originally born into a Muslim family, Ashimolowo converted to Christianity at the age of 20 following the death of his father. This pivotal moment led him to enroll in Bible school, setting the foundation for his remarkable journey in Christian ministry.
In 1992, Ashimolowo founded KICC in London, which rapidly grew into a megachurch with a strong media presence. The church's success is intertwined with Ashimolowo’s influential television and radio programme, Winning Ways, which airs daily on Premier Radio (London), Spirit FM (Amsterdam), and various TV stations across Africa and Europe, including TBN, FaithAfrica (DSTV 341), The God Channel, and the Inspirational Network. Through these media platforms, he has built a global following, becoming a prominent voice within the prosperity gospel movement.
Ashimolowo is married to Yemisi Ashimolowo, and they have children, including his first son, whom he appointed as the resident pastor of KICC London in January 2022, signaling his potential plans for retirement while ensuring the continuity of his ministry.