Dr Paul Enenche, the Senior Pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, has come out strongly against Afrobeats music, saying the genre has little to no lyrical value and is corrupting young Nigerians.
The clergyman made this known while addressing his congregation at the church’s Mid Year Worship concert. According to him, many Afrobeats songs promote negative behaviour among youths instead of teaching them anything meaningful.
What Pastor Enenche Said About Afrobeats Musicians
Speaking during the event, Pastor Enenche described most Afrobeats content as empty and harmful to the younger generation. He said many of the artists who dominate the genre focus more on lifestyle choices like smoking than on delivering songs with real substance.
He explained that it is far better for young people to listen to music with meaning than to follow what he called “the garbage that worldly musicians sing.” In his words, most Afrobeats acts are only singing rubbish while influencing youths negatively, some even smoking Indian hemp while performing.
The pastor added that once young people replace this kind of content with something positive, their lives will begin to reflect that change. He believes music has the power to shape the direction a young person’s life takes, for better or worse.
Enenche Calls For More Gospel Music Targeted At Youths
Pastor Enenche used the opportunity to challenge Gospel artists within his church to step up and create more music that speaks directly to young people. He wants Gospel songs that are rich in message and able to compete for the attention that Afrobeats currently enjoys among Nigerian youths.
He announced plans for a youth focused event tagged the Youth Fire Night, scheduled to hold on September 25. He specifically called on Prinx Emmanuel and other young ministers in the church to clear their schedules ahead of the date.
According to the pastor, he hopes that Gospel music aimed at youths will grow to become more instructive going forward. He wants songs that guide young listeners on practical issues, including how to avoid negative friendships, how to make sound decisions, and how to stay on the right path in life.
Why This Comment Is Generating Conversation
Afrobeats has grown into one of Nigeria’s biggest cultural exports, with artists gaining global recognition and shaping youth culture both at home and abroad. Comments like this from a prominent church leader often spark debate between religious and entertainment circles, especially given how influential both Gospel music and Afrobeats are among young Nigerians.
Pastor Enenche is known for his strong stance on faith based living and has previously spoken on issues affecting the moral direction of young people in society. This latest comment adds to an ongoing conversation about the role of popular music in shaping youth behaviour in Nigeria.
At the time of this report, none of the Afrobeats artists referenced in the pastor’s comments have responded publicly.
