Founder of Salvation Ministries, Pastor David Ibiyeomie, has stirred conversations on social media after advising his congregation that offerings should exceed tithes—suggesting a minimum of 20% of one’s income.
During a recent sermon, Pastor Ibiyeomie reiterated the biblical principle of tithing, which traditionally involves giving 10% of one’s income, as foundational to a believer’s financial prosperity.
“Tithe is the foundation of your covenant to prosperity. Don’t wait until month-end before you pay your tithe. Anytime you get money, pay 10% back to God as a lifestyle,” he said.
Going further, he encouraged his members to go beyond tithes, recommending that offerings be even more generous, stating that this was key to financial breakthroughs.
“In a month, your offering should be bigger than your tithe. My offering, for instance, is never less than 20 percent—that’s why I’m not poor. Increase your offering more than your tithe, and you’ll never be broke,” Ibiyeomie declared.
The remarks have drawn mixed reactions, with supporters praising his emphasis on sacrificial giving, while others criticized the financial implications for everyday Nigerians facing economic hardship.
On X (formerly Twitter), user Ikechukwu Seed Mkpulu reacted strongly:
“Offering 20%. Tithe 10%. Total 30%.
30% of your hard-earned money must go to Pastor Ibiyeomie’s bank account if you really want to go to heaven. Nigerian pastors are worse than Nigerian politicians. Tufiakwa.”
While the pastor’s followers see his teachings as a faith-based path to abundance, critics argue that such exhortations could place undue pressure on struggling members of the congregation.
The debate underscores the ongoing controversy surrounding prosperity preaching in Nigeria and the balance between faith, finances, and ethical leadership in religious spaces.
