10 Richest Pastors In Africa According To Forbes (2025): Wealthiest Spiritual Leaders On The Continent
In Nigeria and across Africa, pastors wield immense influence—not only spiritually but also economically. The rise of mega-churches, expansive media empires, and thriving business ventures has catapulted some pastors into the ranks of the continent’s wealthiest individuals. While Forbes has not officially published an updated list of Africa’s richest pastors in 2025, multiple reliable sources continue to track and estimate their net worth.
This article highlights the 10 richest pastors in Africa in 2025, their estimated net worth, and their significant contributions to religious and business sectors. Read on to discover who commands both spiritual and financial clout in Africa today.
10 Richest Pastors in Africa (2025 Estimates)
Rank |
Pastor |
Country |
Estimated Net Worth |
Ministry Highlights |
1 |
David Oyedepo |
Nigeria |
$150 Million |
Founder of Living Faith Church, Covenant & Landmark Universities |
2 |
Enoch Adeboye |
Nigeria |
$65 Million |
General Overseer of RCCG, Redeemer’s University |
3 |
Chris Oyakhilome |
Nigeria |
$50 Million |
Founder of Believers Loveworld, Author of Rhapsody of Realities |
4 |
Uebert Angel |
Zimbabwe |
$50 Million |
Founder of Good News Church, active philanthropist |
5 |
Ayodele Oritsejafor |
Nigeria |
$40 Million |
Word of Life Bible Church, influential in banking & real estate |
6 |
Tshifinwa Irene |
South Africa |
$42 Million |
Founder of Divine Truth World Restoration Ministry |
7 |
Ray McCauley |
South Africa |
$29 Million |
Founder of Rhema Bible Church, author, TV preacher |
8 |
Sam Adeyemi |
Nigeria |
$25 Million |
Lead Pastor of Daystar Christian Centre, leadership coach |
9 |
Matthew Ashimolowo |
Nigeria |
$20 Million |
Senior Pastor at Kingsway International Christian Centre (KICC), UK |
10 |
Alph Lukau |
South Africa |
$15 Million |
Founder of Alleluia Ministries, popular for healing services |
1. David Oyedepo — Nigeria’s Spiritual and Business Giant
Often recognized as Africa’s richest pastor, David Oyedepo’s estimated net worth of $150 million comes from his vast church empire, which includes the Living Faith Church Worldwide (also known as Winners’ Chapel) and educational institutions like Covenant University. His ministry’s footprint spans across continents with active media presence and real estate investments.
2. Enoch Adeboye — The Humble Servant with Massive Reach
General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Adeboye has built a worldwide following. With a net worth of approximately $65 million, his influence extends to universities and charitable initiatives.
3. Chris Oyakhilome — The Media Mogul
Founder of Believers Loveworld, Pastor Chris’s ministries include bestselling books, TV programs, and a global network of churches. His estimated $50 million fortune largely stems from his media empire and extensive book sales.
Why Their Wealth Matters
The prosperity of these pastors often sparks debate across African societies. Supporters celebrate their success as a testimony of faith and a beacon of hope, while critics challenge the ethics behind their wealth accumulation amid widespread poverty.
Regardless of the opinions, their impact on Africa’s religious landscape is undeniable. Many of these pastors have invested heavily in education, healthcare, and social welfare, making significant contributions beyond the pulpit.
FAQs
Q1: Has Forbes officially listed the richest pastors in Africa in 2025?
A: No. While Forbes has tracked wealthy pastors in the past, there is no official 2025 list. The figures here are estimated based on multiple credible sources.
Q2: How do these pastors accumulate their wealth?
A: Their wealth often comes from tithes, book sales, media enterprises, real estate, educational institutions, and business ventures.
Q3: Are all these net worth estimates accurate?
A: Net worth estimates vary and should be treated as approximations rather than precise figures due to the private nature of their finances.
Q4: Who is the richest pastor in Africa?
A: David Oyedepo is widely regarded as the richest pastor in Africa, with an estimated net worth of $150 million.
Conclusion
The wealth of Africa’s richest pastors reflects a powerful blend of faith, entrepreneurship, and leadership. While the prosperity gospel continues to attract both praise and criticism, these pastors undeniably influence millions and have become pivotal players in Africa’s socio-economic development.
Understanding their journey offers insights into how spiritual leadership can intersect with business acumen to create lasting legacies on the continent. Whether you view their wealth as a blessing or a controversy, their stories remain integral to Africa’s contemporary religious and cultural narrative.