EXPOSED: Out of 10 richest pastors in the world, 5 of them are Nigerians, how they made their money

Rev. Isaac Omolehin, a prominent clergyman from Kwara State, has raised significant concerns regarding the current state of the Nigerian church, particularly in relation to the alarming financial disparities observed within it.

During a recent gathering with fellow pastors, he referenced a striking report published by the World Council of Churches, which sheds light on the unsettling contrast between the considerable personal wealth amassed by some pastors and the often struggling financial situations of their congregations.

In his address, Rev. Omolehin pointed out that out of the ten wealthiest pastors globally, an astonishing five hail from Nigeria. This statistic not only reflects the lucrative nature of religious leadership in the country but also raises poignant questions about the priorities and responsibilities of these pastors towards their flocks. He urged his fellow clergy to reflect on this issue, emphasizing the importance of aligning their wealth with the needs and welfare of their congregations, many of whom face economic hardships. The call for accountability and transparency in church finances echoed throughout the meeting, highlighting the urgent need for a more equitable distribution of resources within the church community.

“Is it not scary that the World Council of Churches released papers about the state of the Nigerian church — that out of the 10 richest pastors in the world, five of them are Nigerians, but out of the 10 richest churches in the world, there’s no Nigerian church?” Rev. Omoleyin said in his message to pastors. “It’s worrisome, it calls for concern.”

The clergyman’s remarks come amid ongoing debates about accountability, transparency, and the role of wealth in ministry across Nigeria’s religious landscape.