Esther Salifu
Senior Pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, Dr. Paul Enenche, has turned down a ₦30 million cash donation from the Governor of Kebbi State, Dr. Nasir Idris, stressing the importance of maintaining a clear boundary between public funds and church finances.
The incident occurred on Wednesday during the Kebbi Healing and Deliverance Crusade, where the governor, represented by Commissioner Zayyanu Umar Aliero, presented the donation on his behalf. Aliero remarked that Governor Idris “graciously approved the donation” and noted that it was customary for him to make such cash contributions at public gatherings.
However, Pastor Enenche politely declined the offer, urging that the funds be redirected toward charitable causes such as orphanages.
“If there is anything like an orphanage, at your discretion, please apply this amount of money to it. No. It will not be received,” Enenche stated at the event.
Addressing congregants and media afterwards, the clergyman explained the rationale behind his decision, emphasizing accountability and the independence of the Church.
“Government money should be used for government projects, and church money should be used for church things—not mixed together,” he said. “Government money is not in [the Glory Dome]. From land to the building to everything.”
He further encouraged the Church to rely on divine provision: “The body of Christ should trust God for supernatural supplies.”
Enenche also proposed that government donations could be channeled through recognized religious bodies for humanitarian purposes, adding, “This is so that we can retain our dignity as the body of Christ and say what we need to say when we need to say it.”
Commissioner Aliero responded to the rejection with understanding and appreciation.
“They don’t accept it because whatever he is doing, he is doing it for the sake of God. We really appreciate and we really thank him for what he is doing in our state,” he said.
Pastor Enenche’s firm but respectful refusal of ₦30 million public funds drew applause and underscored his commitment to financial integrity.
He emphasized that the church’s trust lies in spiritual provision, and urged that public monies be channeled appropriately toward societal and orphanage support.
