Nigerian media personality Toke Makinwa has revealed why she stopped giving tithes to churches, explaining that her focus has shifted to helping individuals and institutions in urgent need.
In a candid conversation with Chude Jideonwo, Makinwa reflected on the unintended harm that religion can sometimes cause, coining the term “post-traumatic church syndrome” to describe some of the struggles people face.
“I started thinking, if I have money and someone tells me they need it to pay rent, why should I pass it into a building that’s already rich. I would rather give my tithe to strangers who tell me their actual needs. The church is built. The pastors have money. Let’s help people the church cannot reach,” she said.
Makinwa shared that earlier in her career, she gave her full brand endorsement deals to her church in pursuit of blessings, but her perspective has evolved over time.
“Seven years ago, I didn’t touch one naira from an endorsement deal; I carried it all into the church. Now, I give where it directly helps someone in need.”
The media personality emphasized that helping people directly should take priority over fulfilling religious routines, noting that real impact is felt when resources reach those who cannot afford basic necessities such as food or healthcare.
Her revelation has sparked conversations online about faith, giving, and the personal choices people make when balancing religious obligations with social responsibility.