National Wire About Nigerians, Nigerian Business and Other Stories
The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, has called on members and well-wishers to support the ongoing expansion of the church’s Redemption City, describing the current state of affairs and the overwhelming crowd as a “good problem” that requires urgent attention.
Speaking during a sermon at the 2025 RCCG Annual Convention, which was broadcast live on Dove Media, Pastor Adeboye explained that the ever-growing crowd at the Redemption City has stretched the facilities to their limits. According to him, the church must embark on massive infrastructural upgrades to meet the needs of worshippers who converge for its yearly programmes.
Crowd Growth Puts Pressure on Facilities
Adeboye noted that attendance at each year’s convention has consistently increased, leading to congestion at both the old and new arenas. At the last gathering, traffic jams spilled over onto the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, and the old arena was filled beyond capacity.
“Those of you who were here yesterday at the old arena will remember that I told you we had a good problem—the place was completely full. We had to ask those trying to come in to divert here because of the gridlock,” he said.
He continued that the overflow was not limited to the old arena alone. The choir section, originally designed to accommodate 10,000 singers, is now overcrowded, forcing some members to sit on the floor. “We must enlarge the altar before December and also build many more dormitories to cater to our members,” he said.
Why the Expansion is Urgent
Adeboye stressed that the expansion plan is not just about increasing space but also about improving amenities. He pointed out the need for a better water supply, reliable electricity, and more toilets—issues that have drawn attention in recent times.
“Infrastructure has to match the growing crowd,” he said. “We need to provide comfortable accommodation, more restrooms, better water systems, and sufficient electricity. This is not about luxury but necessity.”
The Call for Billionaire Donors
To achieve these goals, Pastor Adeboye appealed for financial support from members, specifying that he needs at least ten people who can each contribute ₦1 billion. In addition, he is seeking 100 donors willing to give ₦100 million each, 1,000 donors to give ₦10 million each, and other members to give any amount from ₦1 million down to even ₦1,000.
“It’s been a long time since I made such an appeal,” he admitted. “But we can’t dodge the issue anymore. I’ve done my calculations, and we will need several billions of naira to get the work done.”
He emphasized that the money is strictly for the RCCG Camp Project and not for personal use. “Please don’t send it in my name. The funds go directly to the camp development,” he said.
Giving is Not Compulsory
Addressing concerns that some might feel pressured, Pastor Adeboye clarified that giving is voluntary. “Nobody is forcing you. I’m speaking to those God has blessed and who are willing to help. He has never let me down before, and I believe He will raise people to support this work,” he said.
He also encouraged members to aspire to wealth, linking prosperity with the capacity to make meaningful contributions. “You can’t be poor and do this kind of work. Just think of the cost of feeding this crowd—two meals a day for one week. That’s why I have prayed for billionaires among my children, and I know God has heard me,” he said.
In a lighthearted remark, he imagined a scenario where a few wealthy members quietly offer to cover the costs without a public appeal. “How wonderful it would be if two or three of you came to me and said, ‘Daddy, don’t make any announcement. How much do you need? We’ll handle it.’”
‘A Good Problem’ for the Future
Pastor Adeboye expressed optimism that by the grace of God, attendance at next year’s convention could double, making it even more urgent to expand facilities now.
“A good problem is when a pastor has more people than he can accommodate,” he said. “But we have to act quickly. This year’s experience has shown us that we must prepare for even greater numbers in the future.”
The RCCG leader’s call for support comes amid broader discussions about the balance between faith gatherings and infrastructure development, especially at large religious events in Nigeria. While the challenge of overcrowding is significant, Adeboye’s framing of the situation as a “good problem” reflects his belief that growth in attendance is a blessing—one that demands careful planning and substantial investment.
For Adeboye, the solution is clear: mobilize resources now, expand the facilities, and ensure that every worshipper who comes to the Redemption City can do so in comfort and safety. And for that vision, he is looking to the generosity of his congregation—especially those blessed enough to give in billions.
