The Top 10 richest pastors in Nigeria 2024

Top 10 richest pastors in Nigeria 2024

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Nigeria is one of the world’s most religious countries, with 98% of its population identifying as either Christian (46.9%) or Muslim (51.1%). The remaining 2% includes a diverse range of people, from atheists to adherents of traditional beliefs.

In this spiritual landscape, pastors hold a revered position, serving as guides, mentors, and spiritual leaders to millions. Yet, in recent times, the role of a pastor has come under intense scrutiny, especially regarding their amassed wealth.

Critics argue that in a nation grappling with economic inequality, the vast fortunes accumulated by these religious figures seem incongruous with the teachings of humility and simplicity often associated with Christianity. Some assert that the role of a pastor is rapidly becoming a lucrative ‘business’ in Nigeria.

1. David Oyedepo

• Net Worth: $150 million
• Date of Birth: 27 September 1954
• Church: Living Faith Church Worldwide
• Other Sources of Income: Donations, Education, and Book Publishing

Bishop David Oyedepo is the richest pastor in Nigeria in 2024, with an estimated net worth of $150 million. He is also the richest pastor in Africa and the second-richest pastor in the world.

David Oyedepo exudes wealth and isn’t afraid to flaunt it. In September 2023, he boasted about changing private jets like bicycles while teaching the importance of tithing.

Raised in a family with mixed religious backgrounds, Oyedepo’s early exposure to both Muslim and Christian beliefs significantly impacted his spiritual development. His grandmother, who raised him, instilled Christian values in him. However, his conversion to Christianity occurred in 1969, influenced by his teacher, Betty Lasher.

He initially worked with the Federal Ministry of Housing in Ilorin but later felt a calling to dedicate his life to missionary work. This led to the founding of the Living Faith Church Worldwide (also known as Winners’ Chapel International) in 1981. The church has since grown into a vast network, spreading to numerous cities across 147 countries worldwide.

Apart from his role as a pastor, Oyedepo is actively involved in education and book publishing. He is the Chancellor of Covenant University and Landmark University and oversees Dominion Publishing House, which has published over 70 Christian, inspirational, and motivational books.

2. Enoch Adeboye

• Net Worth: $110 million
• Date of Birth: 2 March 1943
• Church: The Redeemed Christian Church
• Other Sources of Income: Donations and Book Publishing

Pastor Enoch Adeboye, one of Nigeria’s most influential pastors, emerged from humble beginnings and is well-known for his laid-back pulpit demeanor and humility.

Adeboye’s spiritual journey began in 1973 when he joined the Redeemed Christian Church of God, initially serving as an interpreter. He was ordained as a pastor in 1975 by Pa. Josiah Akindayomi and became the General Overseer of the church in 1981.

Under his leadership, the church experienced unprecedented growth, expanding to approximately 198 nations with over 14 million worshippers in Nigeria alone. Adeboye’s vision to establish churches within easy reach of urban dwellers has been actively pursued and realized.

Known for preaching the prosperity gospel, Adeboye emphasizes the tangible blessings that can be obtained in the present, not just in the afterlife. This perspective has significantly contributed to the rapid expansion and influence of his ministry.

Despite legislation limiting the tenure of non-profit leadership, Adeboye continues to serve as the General Overseer of RCCG Worldwide, defying age and service restrictions. He has received numerous accolades, including being recognized as one of the 50 most powerful people in the world by Newsweek in 2008.

With an estimated net worth of $110 million, Pastor Adeboye ranks as the second richest pastor in Nigeria in 2024.

While a significant portion of his income is derived from his role as the General Overseer, he has also authored numerous books, including the popular “Open Heavens Daily Devotional.”

3. Chris Oyakhilome

• Net Worth: $50 million
• Date of Birth: 7 December 1963
• Church: Christ Embassy
• Other Sources of Income: Donations and Book Sales

Chris Oyakhilome is a prominent Christian leader known for founding the mega church Christ Embassy and authoring the widely-read daily devotional, Rhapsody of Realities. His ministry has seen remarkable growth and impact, with over 13 million members worldwide.

Oyakhilome’s journey began during his university years at Ambrose Alli University, where he founded Youth For Christ, which later evolved into Believers Loveworld (BLW), becoming the largest fellowship in the university. After graduating in 1987, he established a church in Benin City, before moving to Lagos in 1989 to establish Christ Embassy.

Notably, he organized the “Good Friday Miracle Night” in 2006, which drew a staggering 3.5 million attendees, making it Nigeria’s biggest single-night event of all time. Oyakhilome also spearheaded the creation of the first Christian-based television network originating from Africa.

Beyond his extensive ministry work, Oyakhilome is recognized for his philanthropic efforts through the Chris Oyakhilome Foundation International. The foundation focuses on aiding orphaned and indigent children in inner cities across multiple countries, providing disaster relief, and partnering with government organizations to enhance social welfare.

In terms of wealth, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome is estimated to be worth $50 million, making him the third richest pastor in Nigeria. His sources of income primarily include donations, book sales, and the various arms of his ministry.

However, Oyakhilome’s wealth and teachings have not been without controversy. He has faced criticism for promoting faith healing as a remedy for HIV/AIDS. Additionally, he has been accused of preaching the prosperity gospel, suggesting that financial contributions to his ministry will lead to material blessings and improved health.

4. David Ibiyeomie

• Net Worth: $41 million
• Date of Birth: 21 October 1962
• Church: Salvation Ministries
• Other Sources of Income: Donations and Online Media

David Ibiyeomie is a prominent Nigerian televangelist and the founder of Salvation Ministries. His journey in ministry began after completing Bible School training at Bishop David Oyedepo’s Word of Faith Bible Institute.

He started a house fellowship in Victoria Island, Lagos, and later moved to Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where he officially established Salvation Ministries on April 13, 1997, with around twenty members.

Over the years, Ibiyeomie’s ministry has seen remarkable growth. By 2017, Salvation Ministries was attracting an average of about 50,000 attendees every Sunday at its headquarters.

In February 2011, the ministry launched 14 satellite churches in a single day, each hosting five services. Through platforms like the Hour of Salvation TV program and live services, David Ibiyeomie has connected with millions of worshippers.

His television ministry, which began on an NTA channel in Port Harcourt in 2001, now airs on over 40 television stations locally and internationally. He is also an accomplished author and hosts an internet radio show.

With a reported net worth of $41 million, David Ibiyeomie ranks 4th among the richest pastors in Nigeria in 2024. His wealth primarily comes from contributions and tithes from his large congregation, as well as earnings from his extensive media presence and various church-related ventures.

5. Ayodele Oritsejafor

• Net Worth: $32 million
• Date of Birth: 10 November
• Church: Word of Life Bible Church
• Other Sources of Income: Donations and Book Sales

Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor is a prominent figure in the Nigerian religious community.

His journey into ministry began in 1972 when he had a transformative experience at an evangelical crusade in Sapele, Nigeria. He pursued theological education both in Nigeria and the United States.

In November 1987, he founded the Word of Life Bible Church, marking the beginning of his influential ministry. That same year, he launched a groundbreaking global Miracle crusade broadcast via satellite.

Papa Ayo Oritsejafor’s impact extended beyond the pulpit. He became a pivotal figure in Nigerian Christianity, serving as the national president of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) and later as the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), the first Pentecostal leader to hold such a prestigious role.

Financially, Oritsejafor’s net worth is estimated at $32 million, primarily sourced from his ministry, donations, and book sales. While his wealth has facilitated philanthropic activities such as scholarships and empowerment programs, questions have been raised about the transparency and utilization of funds within his ministry.

6. Sam Adeyemi

• Net Worth: $30 million
• Date of Birth: 3 February 1967
• Church: Daystar Christian Centre
• Other Sources of Income: Donations, Book Sales, Leadership Consultancy, and Public Speaking.

Pastor Sam Adeyemi is a well-known religious leader in Nigeria, celebrated for his dynamic approach to spirituality and motivational speaking.

Adeyemi’s journey in pastoral ministry began at Rhema Chapel, where he served as the Director of Pastoral Care. He later felt called to establish his own ministry, leading to the founding of Success Power International and the Daystar Christian Centre on November 18, 1995.

While Success Power International empowers individuals to realize and maximize their potential, the Daystar Christian Centre serves as a platform for teaching biblical success principles.

In addition to his pastoral work, Sam Adeyemi has diversified his income streams. He is a successful author, leadership consultant, and public speaker.

As of the latest reports, Sam Adeyemi’s estimated net worth stands at $30 million.

7. Johnson Suleiman

• Net Worth: $25 million
• Date of Birth: 24 March 1971
• Church: Omega Fire Ministries International
• Other Sources of Income: Donations

Apostle Johnson Suleiman is a Nigerian televangelist, serving as the senior pastor and general overseer of Omega Fire Ministries International.

His journey into ministry began as an assistant pastor at the Armor of God Church in Lagos in 1998, before he founded Omega Fire Ministries in 2004.

Notably, Suleiman’s life took an extraordinary turn when he became a millionaire at the age of 19 while still in school, attributed to his business of transporting cocoa from his home state to northern Nigeria.

As of 2024, Johnson Suleiman is estimated to have a net worth of $25 million, making him the 7th richest pastor in Nigeria for that year.

8. Matthew Ashinmolowo

• Net Worth: $20 million
• Date of Birth: 17 March 1952
• Church: Kingsway International Christian Center
• Other Sources of Income: Donations and Book Sales

Matthew Ashimolowo is a prominent Nigerian clergyman and the senior pastor of Kingsway International Christian Centre (KICC), known for preaching the prosperity gospel.

His journey into ministry began at the age of 22 when he converted from Islam to Christianity and subsequently enrolled in a Bible school.

In 1992, Ashimolowo founded Kingsway International Christian Centre in the UK, which has since grown to become the largest Nigerian Pentecostal church in London. The church also has a significant presence in Nigeria and various other countries worldwide.

Matthew Ashimolowo has an estimated net worth of $20 million. He owns a private jet and operates a Media and Publication Company, which publishes much of his prosperity-based literature under the banner of “Matthew Ashimolowo Media.”

9. Biodun Fatoyinbo

• Net Worth: $16 million
• Date of Birth: 1 January 1976
• Church: Commonwealth Of Zion Assembly
• Other Sources of Income: Donations

Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo is the youngest among the top 10 richest pastors in Nigeria.

He founded COZA in 1999 at the age of twenty-three, with support from his wife, Modele. Together, they have expanded the ministry to a congregation of thousands and established five branches (referred to as Campuses) in major cities across Africa and Asia.

Fatoyinbo’s ministry has gained recognition not only for his inspirational sermons but also for his distinctive fashion sense, earning him the nickname “Gucci Pastor” in some circles.

Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo has an estimated net worth of $16 million.

10. William Kumuyi

• Net Worth: $10 million
• Date of Birth: 6 June 1941
• Church: Deeper Christian Life Ministry
• Other Sources of Income: Donations and Book Sales.

Rounding off the list is Pastor Kumuyi, the founder and General Superintendent of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry.

Born into a Christian family, Kumuyi maintained a strong connection with the church throughout his early years. His ministry began in 1973 when he started a Bible study group with 15 students, which eventually laid the foundation for the Deeper Christian Life Ministry.

Over time, the ministry expanded and was renamed Deeper Life Bible Church in 1982. It has grown significantly, with over 800,000 affiliates reported as of 2005.

While Kumuyi’s wealth is not as extravagant as some other pastors known for their opulent lifestyles and private jets, his ministry has faced criticism for its strict control over the lives of its followers.

Despite this, he remains a respected and influential figure in the Nigerian Christian community.

With a net worth of $10 million, Pastor Kumuyi is ranked 10th among the wealthiest pastors in Nigeria in 2024. His wealth primarily comes from his ministry work, including donations from his congregation and book sales.