Anita Oyakhilome, now known as Anita Schafer, divorced Pastor Chris Oyakhilome in 2016 after 25 years of marriage. The former First Lady of Christ Embassy, who was married to the founder of Believer's Loveworld since 1991, has since rebuilt her life as a counsellor and integrated life solution therapist in the United Kingdom. She currently focuses on helping individuals cope with stress, abuse, grief, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.
Early Life and Background
Born on 26 February 1969, Anita Oyakhilome grew up in Nigeria as the eldest of five children. Her father, John Ebhodaghe, served as the chief executive of the Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation, according to biographical reports. Her mother, of Swiss descent, is rarely discussed publicly, and Anita has largely kept that side of her family out of the media.
She studied English at Edo State University in Ekpoma, now known as Ambrose Alli University. Her career later moved into ministry, counselling, and personal development. Before her divorce, Anita was a prominent figure within Christ Embassy, serving as the director of the church's International Office and as a member of its Central Executive Council.
Marriage to Pastor Chris Oyakhilome
Anita met Chris Oyakhilome while they were students at the university. At the time, Chris was already involved in Christian ministry and led a campus fellowship. Their relationship developed into marriage, and they wed in Lagos in 1991. The couple became one of Nigeria's best-known Christian couples. Chris went on to establish Christ Embassy, also known as LoveWorld, while Anita became an important figure within the ministry, known publicly as Pastor Anita.
Their marriage lasted more than two decades, but problems eventually emerged. Pastor Chris stated that a divergence in their visions for the church became a deal-breaker. Speculation also arose about the impact of geographical distance: Anita resided in the United Kingdom for most of the year, while Chris spent most of his time in Nigeria. The couple officially divorced in 2016.
Children and Family
Anita and Chris have two daughters: Carissa Sharon Oyakhilome, born on 11 August 1993, and Charlene Oyakhilome, born two years later. Carissa, also known as CSO, became involved in Christ Embassy's music ministry as a gospel singer and performer. She married Ghanaian-Dutch businessman Phillip Frimpong in Lagos in October 2018, with Pastor Benny Hinn officiating. They later welcomed a daughter, Arielle Rachelle-Marise, making Chris Oyakhilome a grandfather. Charlene has generally maintained a lower public profile. As of 2026, Carissa is 33 years old and an ardent participant in Christ Embassy's LoveWorld Music and Arts Ministry.
Life After Divorce
Neither Anita nor Chris has remarried. Anita, who reverted to her maiden name Ebhodaghe and later added "Schafer," has kept her personal life private. There is no credible evidence that she has remarried, and the surname Schafer sparked unconfirmed speculation about a new husband.
Currently residing in the United Kingdom, Anita works as a counsellor and integrated life solution therapist. In her practice, she combines multiple types of therapy, drawing on over 20 years of experience in supportive roles for communities, families, and individuals in both paid and voluntary capacities. She firmly believes that having a life solution coach can provide the support needed to establish a profound connection with oneself, recognize personal strengths, and create transformative change.
Current Work and Publications
Anita runs a blog where she shares her counselling and coaching services. She has authored two books: Thrive: Poems to Inspire and Empower You and Prayer and Healing Journal. She also offers an e-book titled 100 Ways To Cherish Yourself and Get Back On Your Feet. On her Instagram page, she posts motivational quotes and scriptures. She enjoys photography and travelling.
Fast Facts and FAQs
Anita Oyakhilome's marital status as of 2026 remains unconfirmed. She is known as Anita Ebhodaghe Schafer, but no verified information identifies a current husband. Her exact wedding date with Chris has not been publicly confirmed. She is the first and former wife of Pastor Chris Oyakhilome after their marriage from 1991 to 2016.
Pastor Chris Oyakhilome has not remarried and remains committed to his service in Christ Embassy. Anita, now dedicated to counselling, extends support and inspires hope to those facing vulnerable situations or specific life challenges.
