A Nigerian lady living in the United Kingdom has become an online sensation after showcasing the generous gift package she received during her first visit to the Living Faith Church, popularly known as Winners Chapel.
First-Time Visitor Receives Unexpected Blessings
The lady, who goes by the TikTok handle @peaceosuaso, could not contain her excitement as she displayed the numerous items given to her by the UK branch of the renowned Nigerian church. In a video that has since gone viral, she enthusiastically unpacked two bags filled with various gifts specifically prepared for first-time attendees.
"Una don get member," the overjoyed lady remarked in Nigerian Pidgin, indicating that the church had successfully gained a new member through their generous gesture.
What Was in the Gift Package?
The comprehensive gift package contained an impressive array of items that clearly catered to Nigerian tastes and preferences. Among the carefully selected gifts were bottles of groundnut oil, canned drinks, cornflakes packs, spaghetti, and various snacks.
One item that particularly delighted the lady was the portion of jollof rice served in a plastic plate. She expressed special excitement about this meal, noting that she hadn't enjoyed proper jollof rice since leaving Nigeria, making this gift both practical and emotionally significant.
The thoughtful selection of items demonstrated the church's understanding of what would resonate with Nigerian visitors far from home.
Online Reactions and Comparisons
The video sparked widespread reactions from internet users, with many expressing surprise at the generosity shown by the UK branch of Winners Chapel. Several commenters made comparisons between the church's operations in Nigeria versus its UK branches.
One user, Eliana, commented: "Abeg send one g oil for me, next week na me and winners, they even give me flyer for road." This response highlights how the video has inspired others to consider visiting the church.
Another user, Soko_Solomon, inquired about the presence of Winners Chapel in other UK cities: "Omo I hope Winners dey Edinburg, Sunderland oooo. I get membership certificate already from Nigeria and I learnt people can link you up over there in church."
Some users shared their own experiences with similar practices in other locations. Call_meadejoke revealed: "They do the same thing in Hull every last Sunday of the month," suggesting this generosity might be a standard practice across multiple UK branches.
However, not all comments were positive. One user, AkyaaKwakyewaa, shared an unfortunate experience: "My branch in Ghana Winners chapel international Bortianor someone stole my new iPhone 15PM in my bag after church service."
The overwhelming response has been positive, with many viewers impressed by the church's welcoming approach toward first-time visitors.
Broader Context of Church Hospitality
This incident is not isolated in the Nigerian diaspora community. The article mentions that Legit.ng had previously reported a similar case where a Nigerian church in Canada gave gift packages to first-time attendees.
In that related story, an international student received three different gift packages, including special packages for first-timers and students. The gifts included jollof rice with turkey, sardine, spaghetti, sachets of noodles, and groundnut oil.
The impressed student had remarked that UK churches know how to welcome worshippers properly, echoing the sentiments expressed by @peaceosuaso in her viral video.
This growing trend of churches providing material gifts to first-time attendees, especially within Nigerian diaspora communities, appears to be an effective strategy for attracting and retaining new members while providing a taste of home to those living abroad.
