Woman Explains Decision to Skip 2026 Hallelujah Challenge After Years of Active Participation
A woman who has been a consistent participant in Nathaniel Bassey's Hallelujah Challenge has publicly shared her reasons for not joining the February 2026 edition of the popular online prayer and praise program. The Hallelujah Challenge, hosted by the renowned Nigerian gospel singer, typically involves midnight sessions over several days and has attracted a massive following since its inception.
Internal Conflict Leads to Withdrawal
On her TikTok account under the username @rachelle.brandy, the woman expressed a profound internal struggle regarding her participation. She stated that while her physical self desired to take part, her inner self firmly refused. In her own words, she posted: "The inner me has refused to participate in Hallelujah Challenge no matter how much my externally wants to participate. Those participating please remember me in your prayers cz I just don't feel like participating in this February season."
Reasons Behind the Decision
In the comments section of her video, she elaborated on her decision, highlighting several key factors:
- Unanswered Prayers: She noted that while some individuals experience answered prayers after participating once, her own prayers have remained unanswered despite long-term involvement.
- Negative Experiences: The woman revealed that she faced denial of many things and endured painful attacks following past challenges. She described the last three years as particularly difficult, filled with tears since she began participating.
- Broken Hopes: She shared that last year, she was confident about achieving a breakthrough, but none of her prayers were answered, despite her efforts to console herself.
Public Reactions and Broader Debate
Her testimony sparked a fresh debate about the online program, with many users sharing similar experiences and perspectives. Some notable reactions included:
- User @sharzy12 commented: "I promised myself to join the hallelujah challenge with zero expectations, just join to praise and worship."
- User @Meagan advised: "Are you worshipping God for answered prayers or for who He is. I'd love to recommend a teaching from Apostle Joshua Selman 'The other side of Faith' May God grant you all peace."
- User @Emmah shared a similar sentiment: "My inner me has also refused but somehow I get the grace to join... just told myself this time round ain't writing anything down. If God feels like He wants to answer let Him answer the previous one's."
Context and Related Stories
This incident is part of a larger conversation surrounding the Hallelujah Challenge. In related developments, another Nigerian lady gained attention for repeatedly watching day 20 of the October 2025 edition, while another trended for streaming the program from inside a club. Additionally, prior to the February 2026 edition, a different participant showcased eight items she prepared for the challenge, which sparked mixed reactions about readiness and participation.
The Hallelujah Challenge continues to be a significant cultural and religious phenomenon in Nigeria, blending digital engagement with spiritual practice. This woman's decision to step back highlights the personal and emotional dimensions that can accompany such widespread religious movements, prompting reflection on expectations, faith, and community participation in online spaces.
