In contrast to how Nigerian pastors were once associated with poverty, pastors now live in opulence while wielding dominating power at home and abroad. Instead of being perceived as penniless, they are now accused for having too much money as a result of their large number of cars and purchase of private aircraft at the expense of financial donations and investments made by church members.
As the repercussions of religious leaders’ achievements cause a steady increase in the number of churches across Nigeria, HowNG examines some of Nigeria’s wealthiest pastors and their respective net worths in no particular order.
1. Bishop David Oyedepo – $150 million
Nigeria’s wealthiest pastor is David Oyedepo, a name connected with opulence and religious power. Oyedepo’s exploits as the founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide, also known as Winners Chapel, echoed throughout his homeland.
Winners Chapel International, his ministry’s offspring, has over 500 branches in Nigeria and a presence in 45 African countries. The 50,000-seat auditorium ushered in a new era of magnificent worship venues. Oyedepo’s impact lives on, as seen by plans for a massive 100,000-seat sanctuary.
He serves as pro-chancellor of Covenant and Landmark Universities, and as an author, he does not profit from his published writings. He is a man of spiritual and financial stature, notwithstanding his magnificent mansion in Canaan City and his private plane (Gulfstream 1).
2. Pastor Chris Oyakhilome – $50 million
Chris Oyakhilome, one of Nigeria’s wealthiest pastors, is the brainchild behind Believers LoveWorld Inc., also known as Christ Embassy. Christ Embassy has over 13 million global members and has become a household name. He began as a religious organization in the early twenty-first century, and his ministry caught the hearts of people all over Nigeria and beyond. He cultivated a movement that grew into a spiritual empire, which began as a campus community at Ambrose Ali University.
His church has a satellite TV station that broadcasts 24 hours a day, a printing press, a record label, a social media platform, and a creative arts academy. He possesses a private plane, which was given to him by LoveWorld Records, as well as other luxurious mansions, exotic cars, and worldwide real estate that exudes status and flair.
3. Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye – $39 million
Pastor E.A. Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), is one of Nigeria’s wealthiest pastors. He is the leader of Nigeria’s greatest congregation, with around 5 million devoted members and a vast network of branches spanning the country. Taking over in 1981, he built on the basis established by the RCCG’s founder, Pa Akindayomi.
This humble mathematician-turned-pastor is in charge of the RCCG’s global presence in almost 190 nations. Despite his position, Adeboye maintains his modesty. He lives an unostentatious lifestyle, demonstrating humility, despite using a private jet for ministry activities.
Redeemers University, a TV station, and a printing plant are among the ventures of RCCG. The massive headquarters is the enormous 44-hectare Redemption Camp. This urban stretch contains banks, hospitals, educational institutions, and other valuable assets.
4. Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo – $10 million
The senior pastor of Kingsway International Christian Center (KICC), Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo, leads the largest Pentecostal church in London, which is headquartered in the United Kingdom. His revolutionary journey began when he converted to Christianity at the age of 22, leaving behind his Muslim roots. He founded KICC London in 1992 and grew it into the leading congregation outside of Nigeria’s borders, a significant accomplishment in a mostly non-African setting.
A private plane, a Media and Publication Company that distributes his prosperity-focused publications (Matthew Ashimolowo Media), and many investment enterprises are notable among his belongings. Ashimolowo’s story is one of faith, entrepreneurship, and international influence, and he reportedly earns over $200,000 each year.
5. Pastor Chris Okotie – $10 million
Pastor Chris Okotie, a prominent player in Nigeria’s current religious landscape, with a particular preaching style characterized by sophisticated diction and terminology. His well-known Lagos church draws Nigerian celebrities, particularly those from the Nollywood industry. Pastor Chris, known for his refined manner, smoothly moves between opulent living and spiritual leadership.
He went from being a well-known secular pop performer in the 1980s to forming the Household of God Church in 1987. He is a luxury automobile connoisseur, and his fleet includes the sumptuous Rolls Royce. While his political ambitions witnessed three unsuccessful presidential bids under the Justice and Fresh Democratic Parties, his legacy is rooted in both faith and fame.
6. Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Edeh – $90 million
Reverend Father Emmanuel Edeh, a renowned Catholic priest and early entrance into the list of wealthiest pastors, is a distinguished educator. Father Edeh is well-known for his educational efforts, as he oversees Caritas University Enugu, Madonna University in Rivers and Anambra States, Madonna Secondary School in Elele Rivers State, Osisatech Boys Secondary School in Enugu State, and Aba Girls Secondary School in Enugu State.
His varied portfolio includes maternity facilities, a comprehensive hospital, a specialized diagnostic center, a motherless infant home, a microfinance bank, and a manufacturing company, in addition to schooling. Father Edeh’s influence extends to peace reconciliation activities as the founder of the Pilgrimage Center of Eucharistic Adoration in Elele, Rivers State, exemplifying his role as an astute investor and priest of the Holy Ghost Congregation. As a Catholic priest in Nigeria, he commands considerable importance and respect.
7. Bishop Ayodele Oritsejafor – $14
Bishop Ayodele Oritsejafor, often known as “Papa Ayo,” is the Founder and General Overseer of Word of Life Bible Church, which is located in Warri, Delta State, Nigeria. His impact extends beyond the pulpit, as he served as National President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria from 2005 to 2010, as well as the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), the country’s largest Christian organization, for two terms.
Papa Ayo’s lavish reputation as one of Nigeria’s most rich preachers, with a private plane for global travel, is well-deserved. His diverse portfolio includes high-value real estate, premium autos, and multimillion-dollar homes both in the United States and abroad.
