Why Femi Lazarus Moved His Ministry to Kenya

Femi Lazarus stood before a congregation in Kenya on May 3, 2026, and delivered news that would travel quickly back to Nigeria: he was not returning. The lead pastor of Light Nation Church announced his relocation to Kenya with his wife, their daughter, and some members of his pastoral team. The reason, he explained, was divine instruction received through prayer.

For those unfamiliar with Christian charismatic tradition, this language requires some unpacking. Lazarus believes God gave him a direct assignment. The move was not motivated by personal ambition, convenience or a better cost of living. It was, in his telling, obedience to a clear spiritual directive.

He arrived alongside Reverend Julian Kyula of The Purpose Centre Church, who welcomed the Nigerian cleric and described the move as a season of favour for Kenya. Lazarus shared that trusted spiritual leaders were among the first people he informed after receiving what he called a divine directive.

The decision follows a difficult season. In early 2025, Lazarus’s church building in Abuja was demolished due to regulatory issues. It was, in the opinion of some, a loss that may have opened space for a broader reimagining of his ministry’s geographic footprint. Observers note that East Africa is experiencing significant growth in charismatic and evangelical movements, making Kenya a strategic base for expansion.

Lazarus joins a growing list of Nigerian religious leaders who have relocated internationally. Sam Adeyemi moved to the United States during the pandemic and stayed. Arome Osayi relocated to the US in early 2025 but returned to Nigeria within a year, citing a spiritual conviction that his primary mantle remains for Africa. Then, he returned abroad and is currently in Dallas, Texas.

Reactions among Nigerian followers have been mixed. Supporters praise Lazarus for his bold obedience to divine calling. Others quietly question why so many spiritual leaders are hearing instructions that lead them away from Nigeria. For now, Lazarus is in Nairobi, laying foundations for what he believes is the next chapter of his mission.