Pastor Sarah Omakwu, Senior Pastor of Family Worship Centre in Abuja, has raised concerns over rising school fees and low salaries in Nigeria, questioning how some workers can survive on ₦50,000 amid the country’s economic pressures.

Omakwu made the remarks in a sermon clip circulating on social media on Monday, September 7, 2026, while discussing the rising cost of education and the difficulty many workers face in meeting basic expenses.

Omakwu Addresses Rising School Fees

Speaking during what appears to be a church service, Omakwu said many schools had increased their fees, including the educational institution operated by her ministry.

“This season of school fees, almost every school has doubled or raised its school fees,” she said.

She explained that her school’s fee increase was partly driven by the need to raise teachers’ salaries so they could better afford transportation and other daily expenses.

Pastor Questions ₦50,000 Salaries

Omakwu also criticised employers who continue to pay salaries she described as inadequate given the current economic situation.

“Some employers are paying their workers salaries that are simply unacceptable. Can you imagine some people are still receiving ₦50,000 as salary on this current situation?” she asked.

Her comments have generated reactions online, with some users highlighting the difficulties faced by workers whose incomes have failed to keep pace with rising living costs.

Others questioned the relationship between institutional revenues and the salaries paid to staff, including workers in religious organisations.

School Fees Put Pressure on Families

The comments come as parents across Nigeria continue to contend with higher education costs ahead of the new academic session.

Private schools have faced rising expenses for teacher salaries, transportation, electricity, learning materials and other operational costs, while families are also dealing with increased household expenses.

Omakwu’s remarks also touched on helping people facing financial difficulties, with the pastor emphasising practical support and solutions rather than relying solely on appeals for assistance.

Family Worship Centre operates the Royal Family Academy, an educational arm of the ministry, which appears to be the school Omakwu referenced in her remarks.