Nollywood veteran Kanayo O. Kanayo has sparked an important conversation about the growing practice of giving first salaries to pastors in the name of “first fruit.” In a recent statement, the celebrated actor passionately called for a return to honoring biological fathers, who he believes are the true pillars of their children’s success.
Kanayo emphasized that no one in the world wishes to see you succeed more than your father. He shared a personal story to illustrate his point: When his son earned his first salary—N50,000 from a drama project—he brought it to Kanayo. Instead of taking it all, Kanayo asked for only N500 and prayed for his son. He highlighted that the father’s blessing is what truly matters in a child’s life.
The actor expressed frustration with how religion has, in his words, “brainwashed” many people into giving their first earnings to pastors instead of their parents. He questioned the justification behind pastors taking “first fruits” from young people who they did not raise or support. He pointed out that it is fathers who work hard to ensure their children’s success, yet pastors often take credit and money for blessings that should come from the family.
Kanayo also highlighted the power that a father holds over his children, stating that he is the only one who can bless or curse his children with effect. He urged people to stop allowing pastors to extort them in the name of prayers, calling it a wicked practice. According to Kanayo, fathers should be the ones giving their children blessings, not strangers who exploit religious beliefs for financial gain.
His statement has opened up a broader discussion on the influence of religious leaders and the importance of parental blessings in Nigerian culture. Kanayo’s words have resonated with many, serving as a reminder to prioritize family bonds and to critically evaluate practices that may take advantage of religious faith.
