Osinachi Kalu Okoro Egbu, professionally known as Sinach, stands as one of Nigeria’s most celebrated gospel artists and a global phenomenon in contemporary Christian music. This award-winning singer-songwriter has transformed the landscape of gospel music with her powerful anthems, most notably “Way Maker,” which has touched the hearts of millions worldwide and earned her international recognition as a trailblazing artist.
Biography
Born on 30th March 1972 in Ebonyi State, Nigeria, Sinach emerged from humble beginnings to become a household name across the globe. She is the second of seven children born to Mr and Mrs FK Okoro, growing up in a devout Christian household that laid the foundation for her spiritual journey.
Her father worked as an accomplished civil servant, while her mother served as an educator before her retirement. This Christian and educational background provided Sinach with strong values that would later influence her music ministry and global outreach efforts.
Sinach completed her primary and secondary education in Ebonyi State with excellent results. She subsequently pursued higher education at the University of Port Harcourt, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) in Physics in 1993. Despite her academic achievements in the sciences, her heart remained drawn to music and ministry.
Career
Sinach’s musical journey began in 1989 when she started singing for family and friends as a hobby. Her formal introduction to ministry came through her involvement at Christ Embassy, where she served under Pastor Chris Oyakhilome’s leadership. Initially working as administrative staff whilst participating in the church choir, she discovered her calling as a worship leader and songwriter.
Although she harboured childhood dreams of performing before large audiences, Sinach didn’t initially pursue music as a professional career. Instead, she focused on her church responsibilities, gradually developing her songwriting skills and spiritual gift.
Her breakthrough came in 2008 with the release of her debut album, “Chapter One.” The album featured “This Is Your Season,” which earned her the Song of the Year award that same year, establishing her credentials in the gospel music industry.
The significance of her stage name reflects her personal journey: “I chose that from my name Osinachi because it is easy to pronounce and catchy,” she explained, demonstrating her thoughtful approach to connecting with diverse audiences worldwide.
Sinach made history in 2020 by becoming the first African artist to top the Billboard Christian Songwriter chart, maintaining this position for an unprecedented 12 consecutive weeks. This remarkable feat included having four versions of her songs in the top 20 and two in the top 10, cementing her status as a global gospel powerhouse.
Released in 2015, “Way Maker” became Sinach’s most iconic composition, garnering over 300 million views across official and licensed YouTube channels. The song’s impact transcended musical boundaries, becoming an anthem of hope during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The track has been covered by over 60 renowned Christian artists, including Michael W. Smith, Hillsong, Leeland, and Bethel Music. Its universal message of faith has led to translations in more than 60 languages, making it one of the most translated and widely sung gospel songs in recent history.
International Recognition and Awards
Sinach’s exceptional contributions to gospel music have earned her numerous prestigious awards:
- 2008: Song of the Year for “This Is Your Season”
- 2016: LIMA Songwriter of the Decade Award
- 2016: Groove Awards Western Africa Artist of the Year (second consecutive win)
- 2016: African Achievers’ Award for Global Excellence
- 2019: LIMA Song of the Year
- 2020: GMA Dove Awards Song of the Year for “Way Maker” (first Nigerian recipient)
- 2021: BMI Gospel Song of the Year
- 2022: ABGMA International Artist of the Decade and Song of the Decade Awards
Global Recognition
In 2021, the US Congress recognised Sinach’s impact during her American tour, stating that her “tireless efforts are completely deserving of the respect, admiration, and commendation of the United States Congress.” She was also inducted into the Bethlehem Hall of Fame in 2017 and appointed as a global ambassador for Dominica in 2023.
Sinach has performed in over 56 countries across six continents, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, India, Brazil, Australia, New Zealand, Jamaica, the Bahamas, Kenya, South Africa, and numerous Caribbean islands. Her “Way Maker” world tour spanned 89 cities in three years, drawing thousands of worshippers at each location.
Her digital presence reflects her global impact, with over 1.8 million YouTube subscribers, 3 million Facebook followers, and 1.5 million Instagram followers. Her YouTube channel has accumulated over 640 million views, making her the most-streamed gospel artist from Africa.
Personal Life and Family
In June 2014, Sinach married Joseph Egbu in a beautiful ceremony at Christ Embassy. Their union has been blessed with a daughter, Rhoda, born on 17th November 2019. Pastor Chris Oyakhilome announced the joyful news of Rhoda’s birth, celebrating this milestone in Sinach’s personal journey.
Her husband, Joseph Egbu, serves as the CEO of GOSGEM and Chairman of SLIC Inspire, partnering with Sinach in various ministry initiatives and business ventures.
The couple established the Joseph and Sinach Foundation, demonstrating their commitment to giving back to society. Their charitable work includes:
- Medical outreach programmes providing free healthcare to over 700 individuals
- Educational scholarships for more than 100 children
- Supporting widows and women in rural communities with business opportunities
- Assistance to elderly care homes and prisons during global tours
Net Worth
Sinach’s financial success stems from multiple revenue sources:
- YouTube earnings: £6,000-£8,000 monthly from ad revenue
- Album sales and streaming royalties: Consistent income from her extensive catalogue
- Live performances: International concerts and ministry events
- Merchandise sales: Music-related products and branded items
- Brand partnerships: Collaborations with organisations aligned with her values
Sinach’s net worth is estimated at approximately £2.4 million (roughly $3 million), reflecting her successful music career, international tours, and diverse business ventures. Her financial success demonstrates the global appeal and commercial viability of contemporary gospel music.
Beyond her musical achievements, Sinach actively mentors young creatives through various programmes. She partnered with GOSGEM to launch mentorship initiatives, providing platforms for emerging artists and students to develop their talents in gospel music and ministry.
As an ambassador for Dominica and a recognised figure in international Christian circles, Sinach represents the excellence and creativity of African gospel music on the world stage. Her success has opened doors for other African artists and elevated the profile of contemporary Christian music from the continent.
Sinach’s journey—from a church choir member to a global gospel icon—proves that faith and talent can move mountains. With “Way Maker” still resonating worldwide, her legacy is unstoppable.
What’s your favorite Sinach song? Let us know in the comments!