By Adeyemi Obadimu. There is a side to Primate Elijah Ayodele often overshadowed by the prophecies and headlines that have followed his ministry: the side that quietly opens its doors to people in need and sends them away with practical support. The leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church is known in his circle for his willingness to give - providing cars for some church members and empowering others with equipment to start or strengthen businesses, preferring to help people become self-sufficient rather than offer temporary relief.
His generosity has also extended to the media: since 2021, his annual February thanksgiving programme has recognised journalists, with more than 10 journalists said to have received cars from him, while several others have gotten support with house rent, school fees and other needs. The piece concludes that beyond the pulpit, religious leadership can be measured by how much dignity, opportunity and hope it creates - and that for Primate Ayodele the story may be bigger than prophecy: a man known widely for what he says about tomorrow, but whose generosity helps people build a better tomorrow.
