Emmanuel Aniefiok Iren, born on December 18, 1989, better known as Emmanuel Iren, is a Nigerian pastor and gospel music songwriter.
He is the founder of Celebration Church International (CCI), based in Lagos, Nigeria. In 2018, he launched his debut album, “Kerygma,” and followed it up in 2022 with his second album, “Apostolos: Voice of Transition.”
REAL FACTS EMMANUEL IREN
FULL NAME: Emmanuel Aniefiok Iren
DATE OF BIRTH: December 18, 1989
STATE OF ORIGIN: Akwa Ibom State
NATIONALITY: Nigeria
OCCUPATIONs: Preacher and Gospel Songwriter
WIFE: Laju Iren
EARLY LIFE AND EDUCATION
Emmanuel Iren was born on December 18, 1989, in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.
He completed his primary education at Saint Bernadette’s Nursery and Primary School in Ipaja, Lagos, before moving on to Queen’s Choice Nursery and Primary School in Ikotun, Lagos.
He later attended Doregos Private Academy for his secondary education.
In 2011, he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Building Technology from Covenant University in Ota, Nigeria.
He also holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Lagos.
CAREER
While studying at Covenant University in 2008, Emmanuel Iren founded a Christian campus fellowship called Triumphal Youth Fellowship.
This initiative quickly expanded beyond the university and evolved into a full-time ministry.
On November 11, 2012, the Triumphal Church was established in Lagos. Two years later, in 2014, it was renamed Celebration Church International (CCI).
Today, Celebration Church International boasts over 7,000 members globally, with 21 branches: 14 in Nigeria, 4 in the United Kingdom (located in London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Glasgow), 2 in Canada (Toronto and Ottawa), and one in Dallas, USA.
Emmanuel Iren released his debut album, Kerygma, in 2017 under the Outburst Music Group. In 2021, he collaborated with Nigerian gospel artist Odunayo Adebayo on the popular song “Zoe.”
In August 2022, he announced the launch of his first album, Apostolos: Voice of Transition, which includes 13 tracks such as “Overcome,” “In Your Name,” “Holy Ghost,” and “Glory.”
The album features contributions from other gospel artists like Sinach, Nosa, and Judikay. Shortly after its release, it reached the top 10 on Apple Music.
PERSONAL LIFE
At the age of 24, Emmanuel Iren tied the knot with Laju Iren in November 2014. Together, they have three daughters and one son.
