The long-standing debate on whether gospel singers should charge for ministering in churches has been reignited by Nigerian gospel artist Toluwasings (real name Olayemi Bayonile Bolaji). Speaking recently on Teju Baby Face’s talk show, the singer appeared to throw subtle shades at fellow gospel artists who publicly claim they don’t charge for their services.
Toluwasings argued that many of those who claim to minister for free only accept invitations from prominent churches—those with wealthy congregants capable of “sowing millions” as offerings. He remarked:
“Those who claim they don’t charge to minister don’t go to ‘ordinary churches.’ They know the places they go.”
He clarified, however, that whether a gospel singer chooses to charge or not, it doesn’t affect their spiritual identity:
“Both those who charge and those who don’t are children of God.”
His statement quickly drew mixed reactions from netizens. Some agreed with his realism, praising him for exposing what they see as a “coded system” in gospel ministry. Others defended their favorite gospel singers, insisting they are sincere in ministering without expectation of payment.
The conversation has once again highlighted the delicate balance between ministry and monetization in Nigeria’s gospel music industry
Comments:
ladymeymercy said:
“Pastor Nathaniel Bassey does not charge, and he ministers everywhere.”
adegokesamuel36 reacted:
“I agree with him.”
omobadejumbobeats commented:
“Absolutely This is just the truth. If u think otherwise try to call them to come to your church and see if they will come…God bless you jare brother.”
frankmassstudio reacted:
“Not everybody. Am a twins and we also sing. We went to kola from ogba for #200 for ministration at Foursquare and someone came from the audience to give us 20k this was 8 years ago.”
mrshizzy_ said: “Many people will say he’s not saying the truth but have you tried inviting and they won’t ask you about who the church pastor is or where the church is located? I have a first hand experience and while they didn’t ask for money, they never showed for more than 3 invites. Infact the conversations didn’t go past WhatsApp chats.”
regcares said:
“Totally disagree with what he is saying.”
femitemmy reacted:
“Oga.. @toluwanisings .. you are yarning nonsense respectfully… You are young , don’t let them use you to chase clout.. Pastor Nath and Minister Dusin , no be today oooo.. you never know the sacrifices of others before their emergence… Their results speaks today more…and we love them.. We know some of your eat from the altar and go to all these events to sing with all these Fuji artists..”
