Gospel singer Tim Godfrey has criticized Nigerian churches for the poor treatment of gospel artists, revealing that he has been paid with unusual items, including yams and even a live chicken, for performing at church events.
In a video shared on Thursday by AsakuGRN on X, the award-winning musician expressed frustration over the way gospel performers are undervalued, saying it has made performing in Nigeria increasingly difficult for him.
“I don’t like coming. I come to Nigeria, but it has become hard because of how artists are being treated,” Godfrey said in the viral clip.
He described how such forms of payment make it nearly impossible for artists to meet basic financial obligations. “I have collected tubers of yams as honorarium. I have even received a full, living, breathing chicken as payment. And I’m supposed to use that to pay school fees, rent, or buy property? It’s completely unfair,” he added.
Godfrey’s comments have ignited widespread discussion on social media, with fans and fellow musicians debating whether gospel performances should be monetized and how churches can better support artists within ministry settings.
