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 surprising 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 video that has since gone viral on social media, the Nara crooner expressed his frustration over how gospel artists in Nigeria are often undervalued despite their dedication to ministry and the effort they put into their craft.
According to him, the experience was not just shocking but deeply discouraging, as it reflected a larger issue within the gospel music community—one where many ministers are not fairly appreciated for their work.
“I Collected Tubers of Yam and a Live Chicken as Honorarium”
Tim Godfrey, known for hit songs like Nara, Toya, and Battles, shared the story candidly, admitting that the lack of respect and proper compensation has made it increasingly difficult for him to 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 criticize how some churches and event organizers fail to honor gospel musicians appropriately, despite the spiritual and emotional value they bring through their music and ministry.
“And I want to say—it’s all of those stories of why they’re charging, why they’re collecting money, why they’re doing this. It got me so mad. I said, why are people wicked?”
In what shocked many listeners, he revealed that he had once been paid with tubers of yam and a live, breathing chicken as his honorarium.
“What sense does it make that people work so hard, and you’re saying they should take… I have collected tubers of yams as honorarium. I have collected a full, alive, working, breathing chicken as honorarium,” he said.
Gospel Artists and the Struggle for Fair Treatment
His comments have since sparked widespread reactions online, with fans and fellow gospel musicians weighing in on the long-standing debate about honorariums and financial appreciation in gospel ministry.
Many social media users agreed with Tim Godfrey, pointing out that while gospel music is a calling, it also requires investment—both financially and physically.
A fan wrote on X, “You can serve God and still deserve to be treated with dignity. Gospel artists spend money, time, and energy to minister. They should be honored properly.”
Another user added, “The church should stop using ‘ministry’ as an excuse to exploit people. If you invite someone, honor them.”
A Voice for Excellence and Professionalism
Over the years, Tim Godfrey has become one of the leading figures in African gospel music, known not only for his powerful songs but also for his commitment to professionalism and excellence in the gospel industry.
Through his performances, mentorship programs, and the annual Fearless Concert, he has inspired countless young artists to take their calling seriously while maintaining high artistic and spiritual standards.
He has also used his platform to advocate for better working conditions for gospel musicians, encouraging churches and event organizers to see ministry as both a service and a responsibility that deserves respect and fair compensation.
Balancing Ministry and Honor
The discussion around how gospel artists are treated continues to grow, with many calling for a balance between service and honor. While some argue that ministry should never be about money, others insist that appreciation and respect are key to sustaining those who dedicate their lives to God’s work.
As one gospel singer commented online, “Even pastors receive honorarium after preaching. Why should singers be treated differently?”
Tim Godfrey’s story serves as a reminder that behind every powerful worship moment is someone who has sacrificed time, energy, and resources to make it happen. His message has reignited conversations about fairness, gratitude, and the true meaning of honor in ministry.
Beyond the Viral Moment
Despite the controversy, Tim Godfrey remains focused on his mission to uplift hearts through music and inspire believers to pursue excellence. His testimony has opened the floor for deeper conversations on how the church can support gospel creatives while upholding integrity and humility in service.
