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Femi Lazarus Defends $150 Fee for Ministry School After Timi Dakolo’s Criticism

ByTitilope Adako

PublishedMarch 25, 2025

Pastor Femi Lazarus has responded to the backlash over his $150 fee for his school of ministry, following criticism from singer Timi Dakolo.

The controversy began when Lazarus condemned gospel singers for charging performance fees, arguing that ministry should not be about money.

Dakolo, in response, accused the cleric of hypocrisy, pointing out that he charges students to attend his ministry school.

A social media user, Deeemaths, questioned Lazarus, asking, “But you charge $150 for your school of ministry? Please can you shed more light on it sir? I thought it’s ministry?”

Lazarus simply replied, “Yes o, it is a school.”

His response suggests that he views the fee as justified for the education and training provided at his institution.

Dakolo had earlier called out Lazarus, saying, “Sir, you are charging as low as $150 per person for your school of ministry, teaching and preaching Jesus. Probably having as much as 1,000 students. Let’s do the maths. You even have premium and standard for God’s house?”

He further questioned, “Are you not selling the gift and revelation freely given to you? Again, let’s not keep shifting the goal post.”

The debate continues to spark reactions online, with many weighing in on whether gospel artists should charge for performances and if ministry schools should have fees.

Titilope Adako

Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.