Amaka Okwuoha (née Ebizie; born 12 February 1972), known professionally as Chioma Jesus, is a Nigerian gospel singer, songwriter, and worship leader. She rose to prominence with the release of her 2003 song "Chioma," from which her stage name is derived. She is recognized for her contributions to the popularization of indigenous gospel music, particularly songs performed in the Igbo language.
Early life and background Chioma Jesus was born Amaka Ebizie on 12 February 1972, in Aba, Abia State, Nigeria, to Nze Euzebius Chukwumaeze Ebizie and Lolo Dorathy Ebizie. She is of Igbo heritage and was raised in a Christian household. Originally from Imo State, she was the eldest of seven children. Following the death of her parents during her childhood, she assumed the responsibility of supporting her younger siblings under difficult conditions.
Before transitioning to a full-time music career, she worked as a trader in the food industry. Her musical journey began at the age of nine when she joined her local church choir in Imo State. She later became a soloist and chorus leader with the Scripture Union Fellowship, developing her vocal skills through participation in church programs and evangelistic crusades.
Career Chioma Jesus gained recognition after releasing her debut single "Chioma" in 2003. She described the song as being divinely inspired and said it led to the adoption of her stage name. Her music is primarily performed in the Igbo language, with occasional lyrics in English and Yoruba. Chioma Jesus' music features a fusion of traditional Igbo rhythms and contemporary gospel styles. Her rise continued with a nomination for the Delta Yadah Award in 2010, which she subsequently won in 2011 and 2012. In 2011, she released the popular single "Praise," which peaked atop the Nigerian gospel music charts.
Among her notable songs are "Okemmuo" (featuring Mercy Chinwo, 2020), "Na God I Dey Praise" (2021), and "Bulldozer" (2020). As of 2023, "Okemmuo" had received over 13 million views on YouTube. Chioma Jesus has collaborated with prominent gospel artists, including Mercy Chinwo, Sinach, and Nathaniel Bassey, and has performed alongside Don Moen, Cece Winans, Tim Godfrey and Ron Kenoly. She has co-headlined The Experience from 2013 to 2019 at the Tafawa Balewa Square.
Personal life Chioma Jesus is married to evangelist Callistus Okwuoha and has three children. During a church revival, she became a born again on 28 August 1986. Chioma Jesus is the founder of the Inheritance of Mercy Foundation, a charitable organization based in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Discography
Studio albums +List of studio albumsTitleAlbum detailsYear releasedMy Testimony Number of Tracks: 8 Formats: Streaming, digital download2019Prophetic Praise Number of Tracks: 10 Formats: Streaming, digital download2020Miracle God Number of Tracks: 10 CJ ENTERTAINMENT Formats: Streaming, digital download2020Divine Level Praise Number of Tracks: 10 CJ ENTERTAINMENT Formats: Streaming, 2020Chiomalized Number of Tracks: 10 Formats: 2020Next Level Number of Tracks: 10 CJ ENTERTAINMENT Formats: 2021
Live albums +List of live albumsTitleMusic DetailsYear releasedChioma Jesus Miracle God Vol. 1 Number of Tracks: 2 Formats: 2012Chioma Jesus, Vol. 2 (Miracle God) Number of Tracks: 2 Formats: 2014Nkwa Chioma Jesus Live, Vol. 1 Number of Tracks: 2 Formats: 2016
Extended plays +List of EPsTitleMusic DetailsYear releasedHoly Ghost Number of Tracks: 6 Formats: Streaming, digital download2024
Awards and nominations YearEventCategoryResultRef2018City People Entertainment AwardsGospel Artist of the Year2019Africa Gospel Awards Africa Gospel Praise Artist of the Year2020Galaxy Music AwardsGospel Artiste of the year2022CLIMA Africa AwardsAfrica Gospel Song Of The YearAfrica Female Gospel Artist Of The Year Africa Gospel Song Of The Year Africa Gospel Album Of The Year 2023Eagle Awards AfricaGospel Music IconKingdom Achievers awardsHerself
References