Pastor David Ibiyeomie, the founder and senior pastor of Salvation Ministries, has said preaching about hell may not be the most effective way to lead Nigerians to repentance because many are already struggling with severe hardship.
Speaking about evangelism, Ibiyeomie argued that telling a suffering Nigerian to repent simply to avoid hell could fail to connect with the person’s reality, as they may feel that their present circumstances already resemble hell.
The pastor suggested that Christians should instead emphasise God’s love when reaching out to Nigerians, saying this could make the message of salvation more relatable.
Pastor Ibiyeomie’s remarks have drawn attention because of his unusual approach to the subject of evangelism and the challenges faced by many Nigerians.
Why Pastor Ibiyeomie believes the message matters
Ibiyeomie said, “If you go to a Nigerian man and tell him to repent so he wouldn’t go to hell you’ll be wasting your time because that message cannot convert anybody.”
He explained that Nigerians facing hardship could question the relevance of being warned about hell when their daily experiences are already extremely difficult.
The pastor further stated, “Nigerians are already suffering and they’ll say are they not already in hell? Just tell them God loves you instead.”
Pastor Ibiyeomie’s message sparks discussion
His comments have opened up a wider conversation about how Christians communicate the gospel in a society where many people are dealing with economic pressure and personal difficulties.
Rather than focusing primarily on the fear of punishment, Ibiyeomie’s message places emphasis on communicating God’s love as a means of drawing people towards faith.
The remarks are likely to generate further discussion among Christians and Nigerians over the most effective approach to evangelism in the country.
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“No Nigerian will be born again if you preach hell to them, they are already in hell’
~ Pastor Ibiyeomie says pic.twitter.com/dkTvbeuCy1
— Nigeria Stories (@NigeriaStories) August 30, 2026