When discussing gospel music in Nigeria, especially when mentioning the ‘OGs’, one name that often comes up is Monique—a talented singer, worship leader, and minister whose music has been inspiring and blessing lives for over a decade.

Who Is Monique?

Monique’s full name is Temitope Monique Lawal, and she’s widely known in gospel circles simply as Monique or Monique Naija. Monique was born and raised in Ishaga, Lagos State as the youngest of nine children in the family of Mr. and Mrs. Simeon Adebisi Fabiyi. Her father was an engineer and also held traditional leadership as the Osi Oba of Ishagaland, and her mother ran a business. From an early age, she was surrounded by Christian discipline and strong family values.

Monique’s Music Career

Monique initially enrolled at Lagos State University, but the demands of her emerging music career made it difficult to balance academics and ministry. She eventually withdrew to pursue music full-time. Driven by a desire to complete her education, she later enrolled at Yaba College of Technology, where she earned a degree in Business Administration. At one point Monique worked at Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB), but her musical call continued to pull her back into ministry as concert invitations and church events became frequent.

Monique’s first major national breakthrough came in 1999, when she won the “Circle of Stars” competition organized by Gold-Myne International. This victory helped launch her professional music career and opened doors for widespread recognition in Nigeria.

Monique’s music is known for its heartfelt praise and worship, and over the years she has released a number of albums and singles.

Some of her albums include:

New Story (2009)

Atobiju (2011)

OBA Gbogbo Aye (2012)

PowerFlow (2014)

Working for Me (2019)

Timeless (2022)

Arise (2024)

In 2024, she released her fifth studio album, Arise, an 8-track collection of worship and praise songs designed to uplift, encourage, and draw listeners closer to God’s presence.

Read: The Evolution of Gospel Highlife Music In Nigeria

Ministry and Leadership

Beyond the stage, Monique’s influence extends into ministry. She is not only a recording artist but also a minister of the gospel, recently ordained in pastoral service. Her role now combines singing, preaching, and spiritual guidance.

Live Performances and Recognition

Monique’s music has brought her onto big stages and collaborative platforms, both in Nigeria and internationally. She has shared the stage with well-known gospel artists and cultural groups, performing in major concerts.

Personal Life

Monique met her husband through her music journey. They married in 2005, and they are blessed with two children. Her husband has been a supportive partner in her music ministry, often working with her in the studio and on creative projects

Final Thoughts

Monique’s story reminds us that gospel music is more than melodies and lyrics. She represents a generation of gospel artists who connect deeply with their audience not just through beautiful sound, but through authentic worship and ministry.