David Ibiyeomie, the founder of Salvation Ministries, has asked Christians to teach God’s love and compassion to Nigerians who are struggling financially instead of concentrating on damnation.

During a lecture, the clergyman made the case that since many Nigerians already face serious financial difficulties, teachings that focus on hell are less successful in bringing people to Christ.

Ibiyeomie believes that Christians should be compassionate by reassuring those who are struggling that God loves them and has the power to improve their situation.

“You can imagine preaching hell to Nigerians. They’re already in hell. There’s no way you preach hell to Nigerians, and anybody will born again. Just tell them God loves you. He can change your story. Come to Jesus.

But if you say you will go to hell, the man will reply, ‘the suffering wey me dey suffer right now, wetin he be?’ That kind of message can’t convert all soul,” he said.

The preacher emphasised that words of compassion and hope may have a greater impact on those going through difficult times than cautions about everlasting retribution.

He also urged Christians to practise the love they preach by being compassionate and merciful to everyone, regardless of their situation.

Ibiyeomie’s remarks coincide with general worries about Nigerians’ financial struggles, as many people are having trouble paying for necessities like food and transportation.

His comments have sparked debates on the internet. While some Nigerians concur that messages of hope can be more relatable to those going through difficult times, others insisted that preaching about both God’s love and the consequences of sin is still crucial.

Discussions concerning Christianity, evangelism, and the most effective way to reach Nigerians going through challenging circumstances have been fuelled by the cleric’s remarks.