Former Nollywood star Tonto Dikeh has officially launched her Christian prayer ministry in Abuja, marking a significant transition from the silver screen to the pulpit. The 40-year-old actress, now an evangelist, unveiled the New Wine Prophetic Tabernacle (NWPT) during a powerful prayer session captured on video and shared on her Instagram page.
New Wine Prophetic Tabernacle: A Consecrated Gathering
In the video, Dikeh is seen leading an intense prayer session, describing her ministry as an interdenominational altar dedicated to prayer, revival, spiritual training, and the awakening of consecrated believers. She emphasized that NWPT is not a church but a global movement for those who refuse to settle for lukewarm Christianity.
According to a statement from Dikeh, “NEW WINE PROPHETIC TABERNACLE (NWPT) @nwpt_global is an interdenominational altar, spiritual home, and global movement of consecrated believers called to experience the raw power, purity, and presence of God. Grounded in the foundational truth of Scripture 'And no one puts new wine into old wineskins...' (Mark 2:22). NWPT exists as a dwelling place of His presence for those who refuse to settle for lukewarm Christianity and are hungry for genuine revival, fire, and transformation.”
From Nollywood to Ministry: A Spiritual Journey
Dikeh's transition to ministry has been gradual. In February 2026, she completed a discipleship programme at Pastor Jerry Eze's Streams of Joy International church, sharing her certificate on Instagram and speaking about a profound spiritual rebirth that reshaped her perspective on life, faith, and service. This latest launch cements her place among Nigerian entertainers who have embraced religious leadership.
Controversy and Criticism
Her vocal embrace of Christianity has not been without controversy. In March 2026, a video showing her performing a deliverance on a schoolgirl went viral, sparking massive criticism and a threat of legal action from a human rights lawyer. Despite the backlash, Dikeh remains committed to her new calling.
Other Entertainers Who Became Ministers
Dikeh joins a growing list of Nigerian entertainers who have traded the stage for the pulpit. In 2020, R&B star Banky W became a minister at the This Present House Church, founded by Pastor Tony Rapu. Veteran actor Zack Orji, former President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, was ordained as a full-time evangelist at the Christian Central Chapel International.
Eucharia Anunobi, another Nollywood star, was ordained as an evangelist on 5 February 2012 at Fresh Oil Ministry Church in Lagos. Screen icon Liz Benson also retired from acting after being ordained at Rainbow Christian Assembly in Warri, Delta State, pastored by her husband, Bishop Great Emeya.
Impact and Significance
Dikeh's ministry launch is a significant cultural moment, reflecting the growing trend of celebrities embracing religious vocations. It also highlights the influence of faith in Nigerian public life. With a substantial social media following, Dikeh is poised to reach a wide audience with her spiritual message.
As she embarks on this new chapter, Dikeh's New Wine Prophetic Tabernacle aims to provide a space for spiritual renewal and revival, drawing on her personal experiences and testimony. Her journey from Nollywood stardom to evangelism serves as an inspiration to many, demonstrating that transformation is possible at any stage of life.
