Popular Nigerian pastor Apostle Femi Lazarus, the lead pastor of Light Nation Church, has announced his relocation to Kenya with his family, stating that God instructed him to do so. The move has sparked mixed reactions on social media.
Divine Instruction Behind the Move
During a church service in Kenya on May 3, 2026, Apostle Lazarus and his wife revealed that they were relocating to the East African country. “We shared with the Reverend the instruction God gave to us,” Lazarus said, standing alongside his wives and some pastors from his ministry. The Reverend then informed the congregation that Lazarus had received divine instructions to base his ministry in Kenya.
A video clip of the announcement went viral on social media, prompting widespread discussion. Some questioned why the instruction did not lead him to Borno state or other northern parts of Nigeria, while others defended his decision, commending his obedience to divine guidance.
Social Media Reactions
The clip generated diverse opinions online. Critics expressed skepticism, with some asking why God would direct him to Kenya rather than troubled regions in Nigeria. Supporters, however, praised his faithfulness to what he believes is a divine command.
Apostle Lazarus has not yet publicly addressed the relocation on his Instagram page, where he boasts over 2 million followers. He regularly shares sermon clips and moments from his Declassified Podcast. It remains unclear whether his stay in Kenya will be temporary or permanent.
Trend of Nigerian Pastors Relocating
Lazarus joins a list of notable Nigerian clergymen who have relocated abroad. In 2024, Pastor Sam Adeyemi of Daystar Christian Centre moved to the United States, citing troubling dreams. Similarly, Pastor W.F. Kumuyi of Deeper Life Bible Church denied relocating to the UK, stating he splits his time between Nigeria and the UK, though he spends most of his time abroad.
With Lazarus's move, the Nigerian Christian community reflects on the departure of one of its most prominent newer generation church leaders. The development continues to stir conversations about the reasons behind such relocations and their impact on local congregations.
