Dr Paul Enenche, Senior Pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, has declined a N30 million donation offered by Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, during a church crusade in the state.
The incident occurred at the Kebbi Healing and Deliverance Crusade where the governor was represented by the Commissioner for Social Duties, Zayyanu Umar Aliero.
While addressing the gathering, Aliero announced that the governor had approved a cash donation of N30 million for the event’s organising committee.
Aliero said the money was available in cash and ready to be handed over, describing Governor Idris as a generous and committed leader who ensures his pledges are fulfilled immediately.
However, Pastor Enenche, who later took the stage, respectfully rejected the donation and requested that the funds be directed instead to charitable purposes, such as supporting orphanages.
He explained that the church holds a firm belief that government funds should be used strictly for public welfare and not for church-related activities.
Speaking further, the cleric clarified that the Dunamis ministry operates independently of government financial support.
He cited the example of the Glory Dome, the church’s headquarters, noting that everything from the land to the building was funded without government involvement.
According to Enenche, maintaining financial separation between the church and the government is essential for preserving the church’s integrity and independence.
He encouraged the governor’s representatives to consider donating through official religious bodies like the Christian Association of Nigeria or the Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board.
“This helps us maintain our voice and moral authority, so that the church can continue to speak boldly and act without compromise,” he said.
Responding to the rejection, Aliero acknowledged Pastor Enenche’s decision, saying the pastor’s commitment to spiritual service was evident.
He expressed gratitude for the church’s work in the state and thanked the pastor for his leadership.