The Metropolitan Senior Pastor of House on the Rock Church, Paul Adefarasin, has ignited widespread discussion after stating that individuals who measure their wealth in Nigerian naira are poor. His comments came during a sermon addressing the severe devaluation of the national currency.
Pastor Compares Naira Value Across Decades
In a video that has gone viral on social media, Adefarasin contrasted the naira's purchasing power during his teenage years with its current state. He declared that Nigeria is economically stagnant and that those who still calculate their finances in naira are deceiving themselves about their true wealth. The cleric highlighted the historical strength of the naira against the United States dollar, noting that his father's last salary in the 1970s or 1980s was about 18,000 naira, which was substantial at the time.
Economic Hardship and Foreign Exploitation
Adefarasin argued that the devaluation of the naira has directly devalued Nigerian citizens, leaving the country vulnerable to foreign exploitation. He urged his congregation to recognize the gravity of the economic crisis and to think critically about the nation's financial future.
Social Media Reactions
The pastor's remarks have sparked intense debate online. Users shared mixed reactions, with some agreeing and others defending the country's potential. Steve Robinson-Black commented that his mother recalled when $1 was equivalent to 82 kobo in 1979, which influenced her decision not to stay in the United States. OGHENEKARO (AAT, ACA) simply stated, "Nigeria is not dead, sir!" while another user, GOD SAID, I WILL WIN!, expressed optimism that Nigeria will prevail despite its challenges.
The viral video continues to circulate on platforms like TikTok, drawing attention to the ongoing economic struggles facing the nation.
