Tim Godfrey Shares How He Was Once Paid with Yams and a Live Chicken for Church Performance

Popular gospel artist and worship leader Tim Godfrey has opened up about one of his most shocking experiences as a gospel musician, revealing that he was once paid with tubers of yam and a live chicken after ministering in a church.

In a now-viral video circulating online, the Nara crooner shared his frustration over how gospel artists in Nigeria are often undervalued despite their hard work and dedication to ministry. He described the experience as both unfair and discouraging, explaining that it reflects a broader issue in the gospel music community where many ministers are not properly appreciated for their efforts.

Tim Godfrey, who is widely celebrated for his energetic performances and hit songs like Nara, Toya, and Battles, admitted that the experience of being poorly treated made it increasingly difficult for him to visit or perform in Nigeria.

“I don’t like coming. I come to Nigeria because it became difficult because of how artists are being treated so badly,” he said in the viral clip.

He went on to question why some churches and event organizers fail to honor gospel musicians appropriately, despite the value they bring through their ministry and music.

“And I want to say it’s all of those stories of why they’re charging? Why are they collecting money? Why are they doing this? It got me so, so mad. I said why are people wicked?” he added.

In a rather surprising revelation, Tim Godfrey said, “What sense does it make that people work so hard, and you are saying they should take… I have collected tubers of yams as honorarium. I have collected a full, alive, living, working, breathing chicken as honorarium.”

His comments have since sparked widespread conversation among fans and fellow gospel artists, with many agreeing that gospel musicians deserve fair compensation for their ministry work.

For years, Tim Godfrey has been a leading voice in African gospel music, using his platform to push for excellence and professionalism in the gospel industry. Through his music, mentorship, and global ministry, he has inspired countless young artists to pursue their calling with diligence and integrity.

The discussion around how gospel artists are treated in the ministry continues to raise awareness about the need for balance between service and honor, reminding churches and organizers that worship and work both deserve respect.