Media personality Toke Makinwa has said she no longer pays tithe to the church, explaining that she would rather channel her money directly to people in need.
Speaking on a recent episode of her podcast, Toke Moments, the broadcaster questioned the financial structure of many churches and said her understanding of giving has changed over time.
“I stopped paying tithe to the church,” she said. “All the churches I know are rich. I would rather go to hospitals and widows’ homes. The church has so much money. It’s a business. And it’s not taxed.”
According to her, she still gives offerings and supports church activities, but no longer believes in paying a fixed monthly tithe. Instead, she prefers to provide help directly to individuals facing urgent needs.
“I give offering in church. I support the house of God. But that monthly tithe? I started something else, and I think that’s what God has called me to do,” she said.
The media entrepreneur explained that she would rather visit a hospital and clear medical bills in a maternity ward than send money to a church she believes already has sufficient resources.
“I would rather go to the hospital and pay all the bills. When a stranger comes to me for help, I will give my tithe to them because they are telling me their actual need,” she said.
Makinwa also criticised what she described as wealth accumulation within churches. She questioned why leadership in some ministries often remains within the founder’s family.
“If a pastor dies today, either his wife or son becomes the next pastor,” she said.
She added that she has heard pastors publicly mention large sums of money during sermons, which influenced her decision to redirect her giving.
“I have heard pastors throw around figures and I am surprised. So I will now be adding to that? You already have money. Let’s help other people that you cannot reach,” she said.
Tithing, which traditionally involves giving 10% of one’s income to the church, remains a core doctrine in many Christian denominations.
Makinwa emphasised that her decision was personal and rooted in what she believes is a more direct way to express her faith.
“How can I say I love God and this person is coming to me to pay rent, and I am taking my money to church?” she asked.
Makinwa has been in the media industry for more than 15 years. She began her career in radio and later moved into television, hosting major entertainment shows and events. Beyond broadcasting, she is also an actor and entrepreneur, with interests in fashion and beauty.
Her career has evolved steadily, making her one of Nigeria’s most recognisable media figures. Known for her bold opinions and lifestyle brand.
In August last year, Makinwa announced that she had welcomed her child, marking a new chapter in her personal life.
