Pastor Paul Enenche Turns Down N30m Gift as CAN Clarifies Governor Idris’ Donation Was for Crusade, Not Personal
Written by Ita Okafor, News Editor, SpringnewsNG | WhatsApp Contact: +2348076302965
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kebbi State has dismissed reports suggesting that Pastor Paul Enenche personally rejected a N30 million donation from Governor Nasir Idris, clarifying that the money was intended to support a statewide Christian crusade—not a personal gift to any individual.
In a statement issued on Thursday, June 19, 2025, the Kebbi State CAN Chairman, Venerable Ayyuba Kanta, debunked viral claims making rounds on social media, emphasizing that the N30 million donation was jointly made to CAN and the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) to facilitate a two-day evangelical crusade held in the state.
Kanta confirmed that although Pastor Dr. Paul Enenche ministered during the event, he did not personally accept any money. According to him, Pastor Enenche has a well-known policy of declining monetary gifts during his evangelistic missions. Instead, the pastor recommended that the funds be used for developmental projects beneficial to the Christian community.
In line with that advice, CAN revealed it had already utilized the donation to construct a perimeter fence around the Christian cemetery in the state—one of the projects previously approved by Governor Idris.
“The money was never meant for any individual pastor. It was a generous support for the crusade, and we are grateful to Governor Idris for his kind gesture, including allowing the use of the state stadium and aiding the distribution of palliatives to students and women,” Kanta said.
He further lauded the governor’s commitment to interfaith harmony, describing him as “a jolly friend of all Christians and CAN leadership in Kebbi State.”
Enenche’s Response to N30m Donation
During the crusade on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, a representative of Governor Idris publicly announced the N30 million donation before a large crowd. Pastor Enenche, however, politely declined to accept the funds on behalf of the church. Instead, he urged that the money be redirected to an orphanage or another charitable cause at the discretion of the state government.
CAN emphasized that this move aligns with its broader mission of community development and responsible stewardship. The association reaffirmed its readiness to work hand-in-hand with the government to drive positive change across Kebbi State.
