Singer Timi Dakolo has responded to Pastor Femi Lazarus after the cleric criticized gospel musicians for charging fees to perform in churches.
In a video disseminated on social media, the pastor remarked that worship gatherings in Nigeria have turned into performances due to the high fees guest artists now command.
‘’Worship gatherings in Nigeria have morphed into performances. One artist has demanded N5 million to come here and sing. They will roll on the ground, weep… it’s just their trade. They will play the drums, saxophones, and keyboards. If they don’t charge, how will they compensate those musicians? We have strayed so far from His presence (of God) that we forget He meets our needs. This question stems from someone unfamiliar with God. The life we’ve been summoned to in ministry is one of continual provision. We should turn to Him for our next supply.
- Osun 2026 : Davido Appointed Head of Youth Mobilization
Governor Ademola Adeleke appoints Davido as Head of Youth Mobilisation ahead of the 2026 Osun election. See what this means for the campaign. - COVID-19 Case Confirmed in Cross River: What Residents Need to Know Right Now
A new COVID-19 case has been confirmed in Cross River State. Learn how the government is responding, symptoms to watch, and what it means for residents. - APC Announces 2027 Election Timetable and Fees
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially unveiled its timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 general elections, setting the stage for a series of internal processes leading to party primaries in May 2026. - Türkiye-Nigeria Military Deal: New Training Facility Signals Major Security Shift
Nigeria and Türkiye agree to establish a military training facility, boosting counterterrorism, defence cooperation, and regional security in a strategic partnership. - Nigeria Hotels Face Crackdown Over Hosting Fraudsters — NHA Issues Tough New Warning
The Nigeria Hotels Association warns hotels nationwide against harboring criminals and internet fraud suspects, announcing strict penalties, possible closures, and tighter industry regulations.
The reason you ponder how they will pay musicians is that those employed to handle keyboards are hires and not ministers. If we truly are ministers, God meets our needs.‘‘

Timi watched the video and disagreed. He urged people to stop undermining Nigerian gospel artists. He contended that if any pastor believes gospel musicians should not be compensated, then they should utilize their church’s choir during any of their events.