Popular cleric Olumide Emmanuel has strongly defended church-owned schools amid growing criticism over their high fees, arguing that religious institutions have achieved more in infrastructure development than governments over the years.
Reacting to public concerns that many church members cannot afford schools built with offerings, the pastor dismissed such criticisms, stating that many churches have delivered services and infrastructure that political leaders have failed to provide for decades.
He pointed to well-known church communities such as Redemption Camp and Canaanland, noting that they enjoy stable electricity and organized infrastructure, unlike many parts of the country.
Addressing critics directly, Olumide argued that once church funds are used to establish institutions like schools, they must operate as independent entities capable of sustaining themselves financially. He explained that such schools are expected to generate revenue to cover operational costs, including staff salaries, rather than relying continuously on church offerings.
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“When we carry church money to start a school, it becomes an entity… it must be self-sufficient or it will die,” he said, emphasizing the economic realities of running educational institutions.
The debate comes amid wider criticism of church-owned universities and schools, particularly regarding accessibility and affordability for average members. The discussion has also been fueled by comments from activist Omoyele Sowore, who questioned the inclusiveness of such institutions.
Olumide, however, maintained that criticism should instead be directed at government failures, arguing that religious organizations are filling gaps left by the state.
The controversy highlights ongoing tensions between faith-based development initiatives and public expectations around accessibility, especially in sectors like education where affordability remains a major concern.
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