Pa Sidney Granville Elton, fondly remembered as Pa Elton, is a name synonymous with the rise of Pentecostalism and revival movements in Nigeria. A British missionary who arrived in the country in 1937, Elton spent five decades in Nigeria, mentoring some of the most prominent figures in the Nigerian church, including Archbishop Benson Idahosa, Joseph Ayo Babalola and W.F. Kumuyi.
Pa Elton’s ministry was characterized by his prophetic insights and bold preaching, often warning of God’s judgment and advocating for spiritual revival in Nigeria. His teachings and prophetic declarations have had a lasting impact on the Nigerian Christian landscape, and he is remembered as one of the key figures in establishing Nigeria as a hub of Pentecostal Christianity. Elton’s influence shaped the course of Nigerian Christianity, transforming it into one of the most vibrant centers of global Pentecostalism today.
A Call to Nigeria: Arrival and Early Years
Pa Elton’s journey to Nigeria began when he arrived with his wife, Hannah, and their only child, Ruth, in 1937. They settled in Ilesha, Osun State, where they would remain for the rest of their lives. Although Elton came from a small town in England, his vision extended far beyond his homeland. He had a deep conviction that Nigeria was on the verge of a great spiritual revival, and he believed his mission was to guide, mentor, and prophesy into that movement.
Elton’s early years in Nigeria were spent teaching the scriptures, mentoring young Christians, and developing close relationships with Nigerian pastors and leaders. He had a unique blend of humility, wisdom, and prophetic insight, qualities that would later attract numerous church leaders seeking spiritual direction.
A Prophetic Mentor to Generations of Nigerian Leaders
One of the most significant relationships in Pa Elton’s ministry was his mentorship of the late Archbishop Benson Idahosa, one of Nigeria’s most influential Pentecostal leaders. Pa Elton first met Idahosa in the early years of his ministry, recognizing in him a great potential for leadership. Idahosa often referred to Elton as a spiritual father, crediting him for helping shape his theology and his approach to ministry. Under Elton’s guidance, Idahosa would go on to establish the Church of God Mission International and became a leading figure in the Pentecostal movement, with global recognition.
Elton’s prophetic ministry extended far beyond just personal mentorship. He was a man deeply attuned to the spiritual needs of Nigeria, often speaking out about the country’s future. Many regarded him as a true prophet—one who spoke the words of God with accuracy and boldness. He was known for foretelling key events in Nigeria’s religious and political landscape, including prophecies of revival and warnings about spiritual complacency.
The Impact of His Relationship with Joseph Ayo Babalola
Pa Elton also had a significant relationship with Joseph Ayo Babalola, the founder of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) and one of the most prominent figures in Nigeria’s indigenous Pentecostal revival. Babalola, known for his healing ministry and his role in Nigeria’s 1930 revival, worked closely with Pa Elton, who provided him with theological and prophetic guidance. Together, they shaped the direction of indigenous Pentecostalism, integrating the power of revivalist movements with strong theological foundations.
Babalola’s revival meetings, marked by miraculous healings and mass conversions, were deeply influenced by Elton’s mentoring. Elton encouraged Babalola to lean into the spiritual gifts of healing and prophecy while maintaining a firm grounding in biblical teachings. The collaboration between Elton and Babalola contributed to one of the most significant spiritual awakenings in Nigeria’s history.
Pa Elton’s Prophetic Role in Nigerian Revival Movements
Pa Elton’s prophetic role extended far beyond individual mentorship. Throughout his time in Nigeria, he was deeply involved in the broader revival movements sweeping through the country. His prophetic voice was instrumental in encouraging young Nigerian leaders to embrace the gifts of the Spirit, particularly prophecy, healing, and miracles. His teachings laid the foundation for the Pentecostal emphasis on the power of the Holy Spirit, which is now a hallmark of Nigerian Christianity.
Elton frequently spoke of Nigeria as a nation destined for spiritual greatness. His prophetic words often centered on the idea that Nigeria would become a beacon of Christian revival, not just within Africa but across the globe. He urged the leaders he mentored to prepare for this coming revival by grounding themselves in prayer, fasting, and unwavering faith in God.
The Prophetic Voice Behind Nigeria’s Pentecostal Revival
Elton’s prophecies were not just abstract or spiritual; he spoke directly to the social and political climate of Nigeria as well. His messages often warned of spiritual and moral decay, urging the church to remain steadfast in the face of corruption, both within the church and in society. These messages, while sometimes controversial, were seen as bold and necessary, and they earned him the respect of many Nigerian leaders.
The End of a Life of Service: Pa Elton’s Legacy
Pa Elton passed away in 1987, but his legacy continues to shape Nigerian Christianity to this day. He was buried in Ilesha, the town where he had spent much of his life, and his gravesite remains a place of pilgrimage for many Christians who revere him as a spiritual father. His daughter, Ruth Elton, continued his work in Nigeria, further solidifying the Elton family’s deep connection to the country.
Elton’s legacy lives on not only through the ministries he mentored but also through the countless lives he touched with his prophetic messages and his life of humility and service. His influence is still felt in churches across Nigeria, particularly in the Pentecostal and charismatic movements. Many of the church leaders who were mentored by him have gone on to establish some of the largest and most influential ministries in the country, continuing the work he began.
A Man Ahead of His Time
Pa Sidney Elton was not just a missionary; he was a prophet, a mentor, and a visionary. His contributions to the Nigerian church were far-reaching and transformative. He saw the potential for spiritual revival in Nigeria long before it came to fruition, and he dedicated his life to nurturing that vision. From his close relationships with figures like Benson Idahosa and Joseph Babalola to his prophetic warnings and encouragements, Elton was a man ahead of his time, shaping the course of Nigerian Christianity for generations to come.
Today, as Nigerian Pentecostalism continues to thrive and spread globally, Pa Elton’s name remains synonymous with the prophetic foundations of this movement. His life serves as a reminder of the power of one individual’s obedience to God and the lasting impact that a life of service can have on a nation.
