Veteran gospel singer Sister Nnenna Goodness has made an emotional appeal for help, revealing the dire financial struggles she has faced in recent years.
In a heartbreaking video that has since gone viral, she expressed her frustration over poverty and rejection, calling on well-meaning Nigerians to assist her.
Sister Nnenna Goodness, known for her inspiring gospel songs, lamented that despite her past success, she is now struggling financially due to losing ownership rights to her music. She explained that the songs that once brought her recognition and fame are still available on YouTube but seem to be controlled by another entity, leaving her without any financial benefits.
“When you see me, you will see frustration, rejection, and poverty. As a result of the frustration, we were chased out of the house,” she tearfully shared, urging Nigerians to support her by donating to her bank account.
Her revelation has sparked widespread discussions and mixed reactions on social media. Many fans have confirmed that her songs are still accessible online, raising concerns about artists losing control of their intellectual property.
Compassionate Nigerians have since begun donating to help alleviate her suffering, while others are calling for reforms to protect gospel musicians from similar fates. See some reactions below:
@mclassic_hairline.ng said: “Please monetize your knowledge, skill and talent . Thank you. It’s only Salvation that is free.”
@pinessca_steve said: “Ya’ll should get a job . Pastors should WORK , members WORK, gospel artists please WORK!!!!. Run a business, do EVERYTHING you can to make it . God says he will BLESS the WORKS of your hands . I still find it strange that there are FULL TIME PASTORS and GOSPEL SINGERS, living on which money please ? Tithes and offerings ? Get to WORK EVERYBODY, no one is coming to save you . Even if she had charged the world years ago, without proper investments there will be no ROI… 😏😏😏.”
@philipsgraphy said: “God did not fail you ma…. money is not the only reward for God faithfulness 👏.”
@sososoberekon said: “Most popular musicians left the church because of work and no pay.”
@ja.lottt said: “May The Holy Spirit reward her abundantly🙏🏼 I believe her time has come😢❤️❤️My moms favorite Sunday jam dose years.”
@rolexmilly said: “Cr00ks like femi wants gospel singers to live their lives in penury, while he and other cr00ks like Jerry eze live luxurious lifestyle.”
@tonyartworks said: “I’m shedding tears 😭. What a life. Mommy your time has come.”
@prguy_ said: “Please monetized your gift, na why God give you.”
@debbiesean__ said: “A man’s gift makes a way him, it’s in the Bible ooo. Biko, monetize your skills and don’t let anyone whine you.”
Sister Nnenna’s plight coincides with an ongoing debate about the financial sustainability of gospel musicians. Pastor Femi Lazarus recently stirred controversy by suggesting that gospel artists should not prioritize monetizing their music. However, his stance has faced criticism, especially after reports surfaced that his ministry school charges $150 in fees.
By Ezinne Okorie.
