Top 10 Most Popular Pastors In Nigeria (2024)
In this article, we will shine a light on the top 10 most popular pastors in Nigeria currently in this year 2024. Nigeria is home to a thriving Christian community, boasting over 200 million people and standing as one of Africa’s largest Christian populations. Within this diverse community, various denominations coexist, each with its unique beliefs and practices. At the heart of this vibrant landscape are influential pastors who dedicate their lives to spreading the gospel and uplifting their followers.
These pastors serve as pillars in Nigerian Christianity, offering guidance, support, and inspiration to millions of believers. Their impact transcends the walls of the church as they actively participate in addressing societal issues, advocating for education, and championing social justice causes.
Exploring the profiles of the most influential and renowned pastors in Nigeria currently provides valuable insights into the evolving Christian environment in the country and the factors fueling its growth. Nigeria’s Christian community encompasses a diverse range of denominations, including Pentecostal, Catholic, Anglican, and Evangelical churches, deeply rooted in Nigerian society and contributing significantly across sectors like politics, education, and healthcare.
Beyond their spiritual roles, pastors in Nigeria also serve as mentors, counselors, and community builders, wielding considerable influence in shaping public discourse, advocating for social justice, and championing human rights causes. They play pivotal roles in addressing vital issues such as poverty, corruption, and inequality, making significant contributions to the betterment of society. Having said that, let us take a look at the most popular pastors that we have in Nigeria today.
TOP 10 MOST POPULAR PASTORS IN NIGERIA 2024
The following are the Top 10 most popular pastors in Nigeria this 2024:
PASTOR JERRY EZE
Pastor Jerry Eze is the most popular and most influential pastor in Nigeria today. As the founder of Streams of Joy International, he has become a household name, inspiring millions with his powerful sermons and selfless philanthropy. Born on August 22, 1983, in Abia State, Nigeria, Pastor Jerry’s journey to becoming a prominent figure in Nigeria’s Christian community is a testament to his unwavering dedication to the things of God.
Before answering his call to ministry, Pastor Jerry pursued a degree in History and International Relations from Abia State University and later earned a postgraduate certification in Business Administration from ESUT. His professional background as a Communications Specialist at the World Bank and UNFPA laid the groundwork for his fulfilling spiritual path.
Pastor Jerry Uchechukwu Eze, the Lead Pastor of Streams of Joy International, is a name that has become synonymous with revolution, movement, and unprecedented growth. In just eight years, Streams of Joy has expanded to over 15 branches across Africa, Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom, defying limits and breaking long-standing systems and structures.
But that’s not all. Pastor Jerry Eze is also the convener of the largest online prayer meeting, NSPPD (New Season Prophetic Prayers & Declarations), which has taken the world by storm. With thousands attending daily across all social media platforms, NSPPD has become a global phenomenon, showcasing incredibly notable creative miracles and strange acts of God.
The impact of NSPPD has been massive, with undeniable evidences of God’s power, including barren women carrying their babies, the blind seeing, the lame walking, and even the dead rising! Renowned global institutions like CNN have taken notice, rating Pastor Jerry’s YouTube channel as the number one in the world and the second most viewed ministry in the world.
Pastor Jerry Eze’s influence through NSPPD is a phenomenon worthy of in-depth study, with his use of social media to advance a cause being completely unprecedented. As he says, “What God Cannot do, does not exist”.
Pastor Jerry Eze is happily married to his heartthrob, Eno Jerry Eze, who is also an associate Pastor in Streams of Joy International. Together, they have two children, Samara and Jerry. With his family by his side, Pastor Jerry Eze continues to lead the Streams of Joy revolution, breaking limits and taking the world by storm.
PASTOR CHRIS OYAKHILOME
Rev. Dr. Chris Oyakhilome, a renowned pastor, teacher, healing minister, television host, and best-selling author, has dedicated over 30 years to helping millions achieve a victorious and purposeful life through God’s word. His anointed ministry has made him a household name globally.
As the author of the world’s number one daily devotional, Rhapsody of Realities, Pastor Chris has made God’s word accessible to millions in over 8123 languages, including Afrikaans, Arabic, Cantonese, and many more. This devotional, often referred to as the “Messenger Angel,” has been distributed worldwide, bringing the richness of God’s word into people’s lives.
Pastor Chris presides over Christ Embassy Churches and campus fellowships on all five continents, pastoring one of Africa’s largest congregations. He holds massive teaching and healing services, including Healing Streams Live and Your Loveworld Specials, with over 7 billion attendees globally. The Healing School, a ministry of Pastor Chris, manifests the healing works of Jesus Christ, helping many receive their healing and miracles.
In 2003, Pastor Chris pioneered the first 24-hour Christian Network from Africa, giving rise to satellite stations worldwide, including Loveworld USA, Loveworld TV, and Loveworld SAT. Through these platforms, millions have been reached with the message of salvation, and many lives have been transformed.
Pastor Chris hosts “Atmosphere for Miracles,” a program airing on major television networks globally, bringing God’s divine presence into millions of homes. He also established the International School Of Ministry to train and equip ministers of the gospel, empowering them to carry God’s message to their world.
Additionally, Pastor Chris pioneered the Inner City Mission of Christ Embassy, a ministry to children living in inner cities, giving them hope and a future. Through his selfless dedication, Pastor Chris has become a global ambassador of God’s word, transforming lives and bringing people closer to Christ.
APOSTLE JOSHUA SELMAN
Apostle Joshua Selman, a renowned Nigerian Gospel minister, conference speaker, and televangelist, has been making waves in the Christian community with his powerful messages and demonstrations of God’s presence. Born on June 25, 1980, in Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria, Apostle Selman hails from Langtang in Jos, Plateau state.
A graduate of Chemical Engineering from Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) in Zaria, Apostle Selman’s ministry began while he was still a student, preaching to fellow students and igniting a passion for God in their hearts. In March 2011, he founded Eternity Network International (ENI), commonly known as Koinonia, a gospel fellowship that has become a beacon of hope and spiritual growth for many.
Koinonia, which holds weekly meetings in Samaru, Zaria, Kaduna State, and Abuja, Nigeria, has become synonymous with Apostle Selman’s ministry. He is known for hosting and introducing God’s presence, demonstrating the power of God’s Word, and transforming lives through his teachings.
With a strong emphasis on spiritual growth, empowerment, and demonstrating God’s power, Apostle Selman has become a respected voice in Nigeria’s Christian community. His ministry continues to inspire and uplift believers, and his weekly Koinonia fellowship has become a must-attend event for those seeking a deeper connection with God.
APOSTLE JOHNSON SULEMAN
Apostle Johnson Suleman, the Senior Pastor of Omega Fire Ministries International and CEO of Celebration TV, has an extraordinary story of divine calling and commissioning. Born into a Muslim family in Benin, Nigeria, his life took a dramatic turn when some prophets from Warri visited his parents, declaring that he was born to be a prophet unto God.
As he grew up, Apostle Suleman felt an insatiable thirst for God, which led him to read the Bible three times. He encountered his destiny in Auchi during his secondary education and began moving out with brethren for evangelism and prayers on June 20th, 1994. That day, he saw a revelation of the globe with Acts 10:38 written on it, signifying a power ministry to heal and deliver people from the devil’s oppression.
Apostle Suleman’s journey was marked by several encounters with God, including an audible voice in Lagos on April 29th, 1998, saying, “I have given you the Grace to manifest the reality of my Spirit and I will make you an example of wealth in your generation.” An angel appeared to him on November 11th, 1998, giving him a Bible and saying, “Receive Grace to open the seals and interpret.”
On February 1st, 2000, Apostle Suleman received his mandate and commission from God, instructing him to wipe out tears from people worldwide through the revelation of the word, manifestation of God’s power, and reality of the Holy Spirit. He was told to produce people of fire and enviable destinies.
In obedience to God’s order, Apostle Suleman started Omega Fire Ministries International (LFM) on February 1st, 2004, which grew to over 1000 members within eight months. Today, he is a renowned prophet, evangelist, and teacher, married to Pastor Lizzy, a gifted healing evangelist and Mass Communication expert.
Apostle Johnson Suleman’s ministry is characterized by the manifestation of God’s power, reality of the Holy Spirit, and insight into the word. He is a true prophet of God, called to bring people out of darkness into God’s marvelous light.
APOSTLE AROME OSAYI
Apostle Arome Osayi, a highly respected Christian minister, is the President of Remnant Christian Network (RCN) Global, a ministry dedicated to restoring the apostolic order and authentic Christianity as seen in the days of the first generation of apostles. With an interdenominational and non-denominational approach, Apostle Osayi’s ministry is committed to equipping believers across Nigeria and beyond.
Through his teachings, Apostle Osayi covers a wide range of topics, including the importance of establishing personal altars, prayer essentials, and the distribution policy of the Holy Spirit. His messages are characterized by depth, insight, and a passion for spiritual growth.
In addition to his ministry, Apostle Osayi founded the RCN Adullam Bible and Theology College, an institution dedicated to training and equipping the next generation of Christian leaders. With a strong emphasis on apostolic teachings and practices, the college is raising a new wave of leaders who will shape the future of Christianity in Nigeria and beyond.
Apostle Osayi’s ministry is a testament to his commitment to restoring the apostolic order and empowering believers to live authentic Christian lives. Through his teachings, college, and network, he continues to inspire and equip thousands, making him a popular pastor in Nigeria’s Christian community.
APOSTLE FEMI LAZARUS
Apostle Femi Lazarus, the lead pastor of Sphere of Light Church, is a man on a mission from God to raise His end-time armies. With a prophetic cutting edge, Apostle Lazarus is dedicated to fulfilling his mandate to equip and empower believers for the work of the ministry.
As a public health professional by training, Apostle Lazarus brings a unique perspective to his ministry. He is the principal of the International School of Ministry, where he has trained ministers from over thirty nations, preparing them for the work of the kingdom.
Apostle Lazarus is a lover of God and is passionate about raising a generation of believers who will stand for God in these end times. He is married to Pastor Miracle Femi-Lazarus, and they are blessed with a daughter, Abigail Lazarus.
As the founder of Femi Lazarus Ministries Ecumenical (FLAME), Apostle Lazarus is committed to spreading the gospel and raising God’s end-time armies. His Church, Sphere of Light Church, headquartered in Ibadan, where he oversees a vibrant community of believers.
Apostle Lazarus is the convener of the Campus on Fire Conference, a platform that brings together young people from across the nation to experience the power and presence of God. Through his ministry, Apostle Lazarus is raising a generation of believers who will stand for God and fulfill their destinies in Him.
APOSTLE MIKE OROKPO
Apostle Michael Orokpo, a renowned ordained minister of God’s Word, is the founder and President of Encounter Jesus Ministries International in Abuja, Nigeria. With an apostolic mandate to raise believers who sustain an experiential knowledge of God, Apostle Orokpo has dedicated his life to spreading the gospel and empowering believers.
Through his ministry, Apostle Orokpo has created a platform for believers to encounter the life-changing power of God. His YouTube channel features numerous videos where he shares inspired messages, transmitting the life of Christ and the fire of His Spirit. These messages are packed with kingdom truths and showcase the power of God, transforming lives and igniting a passion for God in the hearts of believers.
Apostle Orokpo’s ministry is characterized by a deep desire to see believers experience the reality of God’s presence and power in their lives. With a strong emphasis on spiritual growth and development, he has become a respected voice in Nigeria’s Christian community, known for his wisdom, insight, and passion for God.
Through Encounter Jesus Ministries International, Apostle Orokpo continues to raise a generation of believers who are deeply rooted in God’s Word and empowered by His Spirit. His ministry is a testament to the transformative power of God’s love and grace, and a reminder that with God, all things are possible.
PASTOR DAVID IBIYEOMIE
Pastor David Ibiyeomie, a renowned Nigerian pastor, author, and televangelist, is the founder and presiding pastor of Salvation Ministries, one of the largest and fastest-growing churches in Nigeria and globally. With its headquarters in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria, Pastor Ibiyeomie’s ministry has become a beacon of hope and spiritual growth for millions.
Through his television broadcast, Hour of Salvation, and live services, Pastor Ibiyeomie reaches a vast audience, spreading the message of salvation and empowerment. His ministry has experienced remarkable growth, from a humble beginning with just 34 attendees in 1997 to a staggering 50,000 attendees every Sunday at its headquarters.
Despite controversies, Pastor Ibiyeomie remains a prominent figure in Nigerian Christianity, known for his passion, vision, and leadership. His commitment to spreading the gospel and building a community of believers has made Salvation Ministries a household name in Nigeria and beyond.
As a respected author and televangelist, Pastor Ibiyeomie continues to inspire and influence millions, making him one of the most recognizable and celebrated pastors in Nigeria. His ministry’s impact extends beyond the church walls, touching lives and transforming communities across the nation.
DR. ABEL DAMINA
Dr. Abel Damina, a popular pastor in Nigeria, the Founder of Abel Damina Ministries International (ADMI), President of Kingdom Life Network (KLN), and Senior Pastor of Power City International, is making a significant impact globally. Through his leadership, Dr. Damina has established extension Campuses worldwide and heads the Abel Damina Ministerial Equipping Network (ADMEN), uniting Ministers dedicated to upholding the fidelity of scriptures.
As the host of “Righteous Invasion of Truth” (RIOT) on KLN and various media platforms, Dr. Damina reaches millions daily, inspiring transformation through his profound insights. A respected author, he has penned numerous influential books. With a wealth of knowledge, he holds PhDs in Philosophy and Ministry, underscoring his commitment to excellence in his field. Dr. Damina’s teachings comes across as mostly controversial and they have sparked major talking points among the Christian faithful in recent times.
EVANGELIST EBUKA OBI
Evangelist Chukwuebuka Anozie Obi, a renowned Nigerian Evangelist, Singer, Author, Teacher, and Prophet, has dedicated his life to spreading the gospel and serving humanity. Born into a Roman Catholic family in Imo State, Nigeria, Evangelist Obi has become a beacon of hope for millions worldwide.
As the pioneer and spiritual director of Zion Prayer Movement Outreach (ZPMO), a non-denominational ministry with over 170 branches worldwide, Evangelist Obi has demonstrated his commitment to spreading the gospel. His passion for helping the less privileged led him to establish Seraphic Home Foundation, a safe haven for widows, orphans, and the destitute, and Seraphic Hospital, a world-class medical center in Lagos, Nigeria.
Evangelist Obi’s journey into ministry began at the tender age of 8, when he started prophesying. He was later discovered and spiritually groomed by the Late Fr. Luke Odikaemerem of Orlu Diocese of the Catholic Church. After completing his education, he moved to Lagos, where he established a thriving cable business. However, he was instructed by the Holy Spirit to shut down his business and pursue full-time evangelism.
Today, Evangelist Obi is a dynamic minister of God, known for his passionate teachings on faith and his ability to apply the principles of God’s word to everyday life. His ministrations are reportedly characterized by salvation, deliverance, healing, signs, wonders, and manifestations of the raw power of the Holy Ghost. He is fondly called “John the Baptist of our time” due to his selfless commitment to the work of God.
Evangelist Obi is the convener of several online prayer programs, including Night of Open Heaven, Holyghost Court, and 100 Days Prayers, which have been attended by millions worldwide. He is also the author of Effective Prayers For Uncommon Miracles and is passionate about delivering men from the captivity of the enemy into their divine destinies.
With a relentless commitment to soul-winning, Evangelist Obi hopes to win one billion souls for Christ before transitioning to glory. His humility and dedication to serving humanity have made him a beloved figure in Nigeria and beyond.
