Nigerian soul singer Sola Allyson has opened up about her spiritual journey and the story behind her transition from Islam to Christianity.
The award-winning artiste, known for hits like Eji Owuro, shared her personal experiences during an interview on Oyinmomo TV, revealing how her upbringing shaped her understanding of religion.
Allyson explained that she was born into a Muslim family and named Rasheedat, a name she still cherishes for its meaning — “someone who is wise.” Due to her parents’ separation, she spent her early childhood with her maternal grandmother in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, where she fully practised the Islamic faith, including observing the five daily prayers.
Her spiritual direction changed when she later moved to Ikorodu, Lagos, to live with her paternal grandparents.
There, she reconnected with an old friend who frequently took her to church, introducing her to Christianity. Allyson said her environment played a significant role in exposing her to different belief systems.
“When I moved to Ikorodu to live with my father’s parent, I met one of my old friends there. I used to follow her to her church. You know I was born a Muslim. My father was a Muslim. I was named Rasheedat,” she said.
She added that her exposure to diverse religions, including Buddhism and other spiritual literature, helped shape her understanding of faith beyond labels.
“I read a lot. I have studied Buddhism. I read grey literature. I lived among both Christians and Muslims where my parents were not present.
When I was in Ijebu-Ode, we had to observe all five times of Islamic prayers. And later, when I lived with some Christians, it was expedient that I practise their religion,” she noted.
Allyson emphasized that she values knowing God’s will more than rigidly following any particular religion. She also said she naturally flows with people of different faiths because of her diverse upbringing.
The singer went on to reveal that her professional music journey officially began on January 17, 1997, after she attended a music training session at a Celestial Church of Christ. This turning point set the foundation for her successful career.
Her story has sparked conversations online, especially among fans who admire her reflective and deeply spiritual approach to life and music.