Nollywood actress and politician Tonto Dikeh has ignited a fresh wave of online conversation with her latest venture, moving her spiritual expressions into a more professional realm. The celebrity, known for her outspoken nature, has announced a significant investment in video production equipment dedicated to her prayer sessions.
From Social Media to Studio Setup
On Thursday, January 1, 2026, Tonto Dikeh took to social media to share a major announcement. She revealed that she had purchased and shipped studio equipment to Nigeria with the specific aim of creating a dedicated video space for her Monday prayer sessions. In her post, she expressed childlike excitement, comparing herself to "a kid in the candy shop."
She went further to state her commitment to learning video production and editing skills, declaring that her motivation was solely for the gospel. "I have never learnt all these video and post things, but you see, for God, I will learn it all. The Gospel must be heard, FELT AND VERY IMPORTANTLY SEEN… O GAN DI LOUDDDDDDDDDDDDD," she wrote in the caption, which was accompanied by Victoria Orenze's gospel song 'I Am Not Mad'.
A Magnet for Mixed Reactions
The announcement did not go unnoticed, drawing a flood of comments from followers and critics alike. The reactions were sharply divided, highlighting the public's skepticism and support for celebrity-led spiritual endeavors.
Some users expressed cynicism, viewing the move as a potential business strategy. One commenter, Sebel Mbah, remarked, "Na church you want start soon. Sooner or later you be saying you are prophetess, just another business ideas since all others has been failed." Another, Irene D-Godfada General-Sunday, recalled a prediction that Tonto would start live sessions to "cash out massively."
Others saw it as part of a growing trend. User Steven Dator commented, "Since Jerry Eze became the most paid Nigerian YouTuber, 2026 go choke with YouTube pastors, another niche successfully unlocked." Ezekiel Ibenegbu Ojumueze simply quipped, "Pastor Tonto ... Wetin musa no go see for gate ni?"
However, support also poured in. Obasi Goodluck cheered her on with, "Auntie TONTO... dey go. We dey your back," while Ngozi Akaoma praised her dedication: "One thing I like about Tonto is anything she decide to do,she will always do her best." Nneka Amah offered cautious encouragement, advising her to keep the focus on God amidst the increased traffic the videos would attract.
Context and a Parallel Trend
This development follows previous criticism the actress faced over her online prayer videos. Tonto Dikeh had previously defended her actions, questioning why her spiritual posts attracted backlash while other personal content on social media did not.
Interestingly, Tonto is not the only celebrity showcasing a renewed Christian focus at the start of 2026. The report notes that Afrobeats superstar Tiwa Savage also trended online on January 1 due to a video from her prayer session, hinting at a rededication to Christianity. This has led to discussions online about whether a trend is emerging among Nigerian celebrities.
As Tonto Dikeh prepares to elevate the production quality of her spiritual broadcasts, the public debate continues. It underscores the ongoing intersection of faith, celebrity influence, and digital entrepreneurship in Nigeria's vibrant online space.
