Dr. Daniel Kolawole Olukoya

Dr. Daniel Kolawole Olukoya, often referred to as DKO, was born in Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria. He is the son of Mr. Olukoya, a police officer, and Mrs. Olukoya, a trader. While attending St. John’s CAC Primary School in Akure, his intelligence stood out, consistently topping his classes. When his family relocated to Lagos, he was enrolled at St. Jude’s Primary School in Ebute Metta, graduating with outstanding results.

Subsequently, DKO attended Methodist Boys’ High School (MBHS) on Broad Street, Lagos, which was founded in 1878. It was during his time at MBHS that he became a born-again Christian. At this school, an Indian teacher once advised the class, “Boys, if you want to escape poverty, READ YOUR BOOK!” DKO took these words to heart, dedicating his nights to study, often from 9 pm to 3 am. By the time he graduated from MBHS, he was the top student of his cohort.

In 1976, DKO began his studies in Microbiology at the University of Lagos (Unilag). He graduated in 1980, securing a first-class degree. Notably, he was the first student to achieve this distinction in the course at Unilag. His GPA remains the highest recorded in that program as of February 2010.

Following his undergraduate studies, DKO received a scholarship to pursue a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Molecular Genetics at the University of Reading, United Kingdom. Despite the program’s challenges, he completed his PhD in just three years before returning to Nigeria.

Back in his home country, DKO joined the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) in Yaba. Here, he solidified his reputation as a preeminent geneticist of African descent. He published over 70 scientific papers in a brief period and became an authority in the study of genetics. DKO also lectured on Genetics and served as an external examiner at several universities. Furthermore, he has presented papers at scientific conferences worldwide.

Today, DKO’s contributions to the fields of genetics and biotechnology continue through the Daniel & Fola Biotechnology Foundation, an NGO dedicated to equipping Nigerians with modern laboratory skills in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology.

Raised in a Christian household, DKO’s father, in addition to his police duties, served as a pastor at the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC). Throughout his academic journey, DKO remained devoted to the service of Lord Jesus Christ. His fervor deepened during his PhD studies in the UK, and his ministry draws significant inspiration from the late Apostle Joseph Ayodele Babalola, the founder of the CAC church. In the dedications of his books, “Prayer Rain” and “Prayer Passport,” DKO acknowledges Apostle Babalola’s profound influence and pioneering efforts in aggressive evangelism in Nigeria.

Dr. Daniel Olukoya’s prolific writings are published by the Battle Cry Christian Ministries. As of July 2015, these include over 250 transformative Christian books, audio tapes, CDs, video discs, and more.