A pastor in Lagos has gained widespread attention after announcing the suspension of offering collections in his church. Citing the current economic hardship in Nigeria, the announcement, made in both English and Yoruba, has gone viral.
Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, has been grappling with severe economic challenges in recent years. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated existing problems, leading to a significant decline in oil prices—Nigeria’s primary export. This decline has severely impacted government revenues and the broader economy. Additionally, inflation has surged, leading to skyrocketing prices for essential goods and services.
According to the National Bureau of Statistics, Nigeria’s inflation rate reached its highest level in four years in April 2021, 18.12%. Due to this, the price of food and other essentials has significantly increased, placing a great deal of strain on households. The World Bank has also issued a warning, stating that increased unemployment and inflation may force more Nigerians into poverty.
The pastor clarified that this choice was made in light of the challenging circumstances facing the nation. He made it clear that pastors would not go hungry if the offering collection was discontinued, saying that if God had called them, they would be able to support themselves.
He encouraged pastors across the nation to think about doing the same, to the jubilant cheers of his audience.
“Don’t collect offerings today due to the situation in the country. For now, we are suspending offerings,” he announced. “All pastors should note that, given the current circumstances, we should stop collecting offerings. A church member might spend ₦1000 on transportation to attend church, give an offering, and then have to walk back home.”
The pastor continued, “Am I making sense? Not giving an offering doesn’t mean the pastor will starve if he is truly called. But for now, until fuel prices drop, we will not collect offerings in our church.”
He urged the congregation to focus on serving God and then go home. “Until the price of petrol comes down, it is not easy. You will work tomorrow and don’t know if the transport fare to Mushin will be ₦500 or ₦700.”
In conclusion, he reiterated his message to all pastors: ” Stop collecting offerings for now.”