• Bolaji Idowu is the Lead Pastor of Harvesters International Christian Centre.
• He announced a new support initiative for unemployed church workers in a viral video.
• The initiative will provide ₦50,000 per month for three months to eligible church members.

In a heartwarming gesture, Bolaji Idowu, the Lead Pastor of Harvesters International Christian Centre, has brought forth a wave of positivity within his community. A recent video of Pastor Idowu discussing a new initiative has captured the attention of many online, going viral as a testament to the church’s supportive spirit.

Pastor Idowu unveiled a financial assistance program designed to support church workers who find themselves currently unemployed. In this initiative, dedicated members of the church will receive a monthly stipend of ₦50,000 for a period of three months. This support aims to ease the financial burden on these individuals as they seek new job opportunities.

The pastor elaborated that the program is particularly focused on aiding those who are in transition between jobs, providing a much-needed financial cushion. An interesting aspect of this initiative is its simplicity—members will not be subjected to any screening, merely needing to register to avail themselves of this support. This reflects the church’s deep trust and faith in its active congregation.

Pastor Idowu, who has had his share of public attention, especially after facing scrutiny in 2024 and a viral incident involving singer Tiwa Savage, emphasizes that this decision is driven by compassion rather than any form of skepticism. The initiative highlights a commitment to standing by the community in challenging times, reinforcing the church’s role as a pillar of support.

The announcement has generated diverse reactions online. Many praised the pastor, calling the initiative thoughtful and forward-thinking, with some drawing parallels to social welfare programs seen in other countries and noting the lack of similar systems in Nigeria.

However, some Nigerians criticized the government, arguing that caring for unemployed youths should not fall solely on religious organizations. A few also questioned the pastor’s intentions, wondering if the move was partly aimed at public recognition. Another group suggested that recipients should remain active in church duties during the three-month period, seeing it as a fair combination of support and responsibility.

Regardless of differing opinions, the video has sparked discussions about unemployment, social support, and the role of faith-based institutions in addressing societal challenges.

Read some comments below;

@jenidoro:” This is how it is supposed to be.”

@rotimirhema:”This is quite impressive and a good initiative from them, this will significantly help alleviate the hardship experienced by these brethren. I also would suggest they are put into active use in evangelism and church works while some are empowered with the necessary skills to compete in the labour market.”

@theunusual_mrsb:”This is really good. There’s hope for those looking to God for a job.”

@osher.101:”Get them jobs.”

@ola_reform:”Good one! Great move! It’s done western countries! It’s called Social security! Kudos to the church, for doing what government should be doing! I only hope he’s not doing this to impress Nigerians! Motive is always important.”