Pastor Enenche Rejects N30 Million Cash Donation from Kebbi Governor
Senior Pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, Dr Paul Enenche, has turned down a N30 million cash donation from Kebbi State Governor, Dr Nasir Idris, during a healing crusade organized by the church in the state.
The donation was announced at the Kebbi Healing and Deliverance Crusade by Kebbi State Commissioner for Social Duties, Zayyanu Umar Aliero, who represented the governor at the event.
Governor Idris Sends N30 Million in Cash for Crusade Support
Aliero addressed the gathering, stating:
“Our Governor, His Excellency Dr Nasir Idris, a faithful and Comrade Governor, has graciously approved the donation of the sum of 30 million naira to this gathering. That is to the organising committee. His Excellency always makes donations in cash, and before I leave this stage, I want to present that sum of 30 million naira in cash.”
The announcement drew applause from some in the audience, but Pastor Enenche’s response shifted the tone of the event.
“Apply It to Charity”: Pastor Enenche Firmly Rejects the Cash
Taking to the stage shortly after, Dr Enenche firmly rejected the money, urging that the funds be redirected to charitable efforts instead:
“If there is anything like an orphanage, please apply this amount of money to it. No, it will not be received.”
He later provided further context, underscoring his belief that public funds should remain within the bounds of public service.
“Church Money Is for Church Things” — Enenche Clarifies Church’s Policy
Explaining the church’s position, Enenche stated:
“We are one of those who believe that government money should be used for government projects, and church money should be used for church things — not mixed together.”
He added that even the iconic Glory Dome in Abuja was built without a single naira from government sources:
“As small as the Glory Dome is right there, government money is not in it — from land to the building to everything.”
Enenche Urges Churches to Maintain Independence from State Funds
Enenche used the moment to call on the wider body of Christ to uphold financial integrity and maintain independence from state funding, encouraging churches to trust in divine provision.
“This is so we can retain our dignity as the body of Christ, and say what we need to say, when we need to say it.”
He further suggested that, if the government still wished to support religious causes, they should channel such donations through government-regulated religious bodies, such as the Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board or the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).
Kebbi Officials Respond Respectfully to Rejection
Commissioner Aliero later acknowledged the church’s decision with respect:
“They don’t accept it because whatever he is doing, he is doing it for the sake of God. We really appreciate and we really thank him for what he is doing in our state.”
