Popular Nigerian gospel singer Tim Godfrey has opened up about why he rarely performs in Nigeria, revealing that poor treatment of gospel artists has made it difficult for him to accept invitations locally.
In a video making the rounds on Thursday, the 45-year-old “Nara” crooner told a congregation that his decision stems from years of being undervalued and underpaid despite his commitment to gospel music.
He said:
“I don’t like coming to Nigeria. Coming to Nigeria became difficult because of how artists are being treated so badly.
And I want to say it — all of those stories of why are they charging, why are they collecting money, why are they doing this — it got me so mad.
What sense does it make that people work so hard and you’re saying they should take… as honorarium. I have collected a full alive, living, breathing chicken as honorarium. And that is what I’m going to use to pay school fees, pay house rent, buy property? No! That is so unfair!”
Tim Godfrey’s remarks came in response to criticism from social media users who have accused gospel artistes of commercializing ministry by charging performance fees at church events.
The award-winning singer argued that gospel music is a full-time profession, and artistes deserve respect and fair compensation for their craft.
The debate about whether gospel musicians should charge fees resurfaced after Pastor Femi Lazarus of Light Nation Church claimed that a gospel artiste demanded $10,000, first-class tickets, and luxury accommodation to perform at his church.
The pastor’s statement divided opinions online — while some argued that gospel ministry should not be monetized, others insisted that artistes should be properly rewarded for their efforts and the costs involved in production and live performance.
Backing Tim Godfrey’s stance, singer Timi Dakolo also defended gospel musicians, stressing that many spend heavily on music production, instruments, and band members, and should not be expected to perform for free.
Tim Godfrey, who has built a successful international ministry with hit songs like “Nara” featuring Travis Greene, continues to advocate for fair treatment and professionalism within Nigeria’s gospel music industry.
