The Founder of Hightower Global Church, Prophet Rufus Olawale Ikotun, has called on the Federal Government to ensure that taxpayer money translates into visible development and improved living standards for Nigerians.
The cleric made this appeal during a massive gospel crusade held on December 31 at Abesan Estate, Lagos. The event, which doubled as a humanitarian outreach, saw over 5,000 attendees receiving bags of rice to celebrate the New Year.
Demanding Accountability in Governance
Addressing the state of the nation, Prophet Ikotun emphasized that while taxation is a global standard, it must be accompanied by the provision of basic infrastructure and security.
”I have traveled all over the world. There is no country where you won’t pay tax, and I don’t have a problem with that. But when we pay tax, it should count,” Ikotun stated. “I don’t want to pay tax and still be unable to sleep because of insecurity. I don’t want to pay tax and drive on bad roads. Our hospitals should be working. Government must attend to basic amenities; that should not be too much to ask.”
A Mission Rooted in Personal Experience
Reflecting on his motivation for the massive food distribution, the Prophet shared his humble beginnings, noting that rice was a luxury during his childhood.
”My experience as a child informed my decision to help people out of poverty,” he said. “If God helps me, I will ensure that every Crossover Night, people go home with rice. The true definition of church is ‘help.’ Any church not making an impact is not a church. You help people out of the world and into Christ; even Jesus fed the multitude to set an example for us.”
Prophetic Outlook for 2026
While acknowledging the difficulties of the past year, Prophet Ikotun offered a message of hope for the New Year.
”Though 2025 was a year of progress, it was a tough one. But God glorified Himself in our lives. We have now entered the Year of Abundance,” he declared. He noted that while there are four levels of famine—global, national, family, and personal—God would provide a “buffer” for those who serve Him faithfully and act wisely.
On the security front, the cleric predicted a turning point for the nation. “Banditry will stop because God will expose the source of their power. God has heard the cries of His children; Nigeria is changing.”
A Call to Faith
Prophet Ikotun urged Nigerians to embrace Christ as the ultimate solution to life’s challenges. “Jesus is not just one of the ways; He is the only way. Nobody comes to know Jesus and is left stranded in life. I wish for all Nigerians to come to this understanding,” he said.