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Thursday 1 September 2011

School Fees of Church-owned Universities in Nigeria

My younger sister said to me the other day 'Linda, now that you're making money, why don't you start paying tithe? I didn't respond to her. Some of you know my stance on tithe offering, it hasn't changed.

Here's one of the reasons...
This is the school fees of Church-owned Universities in Nigeria
Bowen University - N650,000
Covenant University - N640,000
Benson Idahosa - N500, 000
Babcock University - N450, 000
Redeemers University - N375, 000
Ajayi Crowther University - N350, 000

What's the church highest source of income? Let me answer that; tithes, offerings, donations. So the thing is, I pay my tithe, my church builds a school, but I can't afford to send my child to that school? And here's the irony, no Nigerian University is in the top 15 Universities in Africa and only one university in Africa is among the 150 best universities in the world, and no, it's not a Nigerian university, it's University of Cairo.

So someone please explain to me why I should change my mind on tithe offering? How does it change and affect my world? Why are these church-owned universities unaffordable to the common man?

No insults please, let's discuss this as civilized adults and concerned citizens

275 comments:

«Oldest   ‹Older   201 – 275 of 275
kachi said...

pls Linder, the issue of chrch tithes and others should not be a problem. what matters is how you see ur God,doing what your concience applauds,and being self disciplined.the world is dynamic and controvercial and its only those that understands that excell in life.
have you asked your self why Africa who claimed to know God better is still the poorest continent in the would? does it mean God does nt answer their prayers?.do u know that 90% of the Europians do not know God, yet they are the most advanced and developed. so why this great gap?
pls do not let someone have control over your choice of life to live. you are the who you are and have total control of what and what not to do.

Niyi said...

the current school fees for covenant uni is #540,000 and that is for engineering students although it increased by over #100,000

Anonymous said...

MY DEAR LINDA I TOTALLY AGREE WITH YOU. FORGET WHAT THE BIBLE SAYS AND INSTEAD GIVE YOUR TITHE TO THE NEEDY, I ASSURE YOU THAT GOD WILL DEFINITELY BLESS AND REWARD YOU. MAINLY BECOS YOU WILL GIVE FROM YOUR HEART.

JUST IMAGINE IF THESE CHURCHES USE THE MONEY TO BUILD FIRST CLASS HOSPITALS IN THE COUNTRY. DON'T YOU THINK THAT WILL DO SO MUCH GOOD, CAUSE ITS GOING TO HELP AND SAVE LOTS OF LIVES.

Joan said...

Hi Linda,
I'm contributing in this discussion cos I like you and don't want you to continue in your 'ignorance'.First, paying your tithe is God's commandment and if you don't then, according to scriptures in Malachi, God says you have robbed Him. That's something for you to ponder on.
Secondly, when you study and meditate upon that scripture, you will find that it is more to your own advantage because it opens God's store house to you and protects you from devourers- and believe me you don't want to keep your tithe only to spend it on trouble, illness,etc.
Thirdly, God owns the whole world and so doesn't need your money but the bible says so there will be meat in God's store house. If the church doesn't have money, how will staff be paid, diesel for generator, maintenance of toilet facility, etc
Most important, the last time I checked God is still the omnipotent God (all powerful God) and so doesn't need men to fight His battles. I've been paying tithe since I can remember and have been truly blessed. Obey God's word, that is if you believe what's written in the bible and forget what your pastor/priest does with your money. I personally don't think about, once I pay (not give), I forget about it and relax in the confidence that God is watching my back.
And Linda, big up to your sister. She's also watching your back. Remember, there's nothing a man has that God can't touch or allow the devil to touch. Ask Job!

childofthemosthigh said...

@R4, who ever mentioned we worship God when paying our tithes?you've got it all wrong you cannot worship God with money as you mentioned for God is a spirit hence we must worship him in spirit and in truth. however we obey him by following his word which states we should give 1/10 of our income to him.For God is merciful,He gives you free will and would not force you to pay tithe but by doing so YOU are giving the lord permission to shower you with abundant blessings,He does that for your good not the church,pastor or for Himself.
@ AW,God bless keep speaking the word.
@September 1, 2011 4:25 PM, you need to spend time meditating and building yourself in the word of God. When Christ returns you will face Him individually, so don't loose sleep judging other pastors,the govt etc do what is right by adhering to his word. You also mentioned Malachi is in the old testament so your implying tithing is of the past, remember the HOLY SPIRIT was revealed to us in the old testament should we then assume the Holy spirit isn't existent with us now(because He was not revealed to us at first in the new testament)?????? My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because you have rejected knowledge, I will also reject you, that you shall be no priest to me: seeing you have forgotten the law of your God, I will also forget your children(Hosea 4:6)
Be blessed

childofthemosthigh said...

@R4, who ever mentioned we worship God when paying our tithes?you've got it all wrong you cannot worship God with money as you mentioned for God is a spirit hence we must worship him in spirit and in truth. however we obey him by following his word which states we should give 1/10 of our income to him.For God is merciful,He gives you free will and would not force you to pay tithe but by doing so YOU are giving the lord permission to shower you with abundant blessings,He does that for your good not the church,pastor or for Himself.
@ AW,God bless keep speaking the word.
@September 1, 2011 4:25 PM, you need to spend time meditating and building yourself in the word of God. When Christ returns you will face Him individually, so don't loose sleep judging other pastors,the govt etc do what is right by adhering to his word. You also mentioned Malachi is in the old testament so your implying tithing is of the past, remember the HOLY SPIRIT was revealed to us in the old testament should we then assume the Holy spirit isn't existent with us now(because He was not revealed to us at first in the new testament)?????? My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because you have rejected knowledge, I will also reject you, that you shall be no priest to me: seeing you have forgotten the law of your God, I will also forget your children(Hosea 4:6)
Be blessed

Anonymous said...

Loolll.. Wow. Reading thru all d comments and everybody has a valid point. I'm in CU n...well I cnt talk much bout this here sha. 4 more info @monblaze on twitter.
Bout d skool fees thingy all those numbers r wrong. One of d most expensive is ABTI, its nt chrch ownd n its lyk 1mil or less a year.
They all pay PER YEAR not per semester o!!
CU hv increased their fees yet again nt it ranges 4rm 376K to 466K..

Stick 2 ur God, Do ur thing, read ur bible, obey it,
Maybe even change church. In my church I happily give tithes n offerings cos I kno exactly
Wher it goes, d accounts n info r even availaible 4 u 2 check out.
So really d main point as I've learnt is jus make sure U hv a direct connect 2 God no need 2 hold ny pastor
In high or low esteem, they are people too.

Nne Somebody said...

I am glad many people have spoken about this matter so, I need not say much.

Before you condemn and castigate the church, do some research. Find out how much it costs to run a university per session. Find out what the average cost of a university education is all over the world.

We've got so many things wrong in this country. Our government has failed in many respects to provide the basics to us and because of that, we lash out at everyone and everything.

These schools are private. Nobody is compelled to attend them. Even bible schools have to charge some fees or they won't remain open for too long.

How much does it cost to send children to private secondary schools nowadays? Do you have any idea how much we pay to private primary and even nursery schools?

As my people will say, don't leave leprosy and face ring worm. We are quick to jump to the defence of so called minority or marginalised groups but drag preachers through the mud if they so much as cough the wrong way.

Don't forget, ultimately, we are all human. I am certainly not saying that preachers are perfect but therein lies the key, none of us is and the sooner we stop bashing people who are at least making an effort, the sooner we can move forward as a people.

Heck! I went and said too much

Anonymous said...

If the idea of tithe is for it to go to underpriveledge, it does not matter if you give to church or like Linda and others give it directly to the underpriveledged. The bottom line is purifying your wealth.

It so sad that a lot of nigerians are fast losing their reasoning mentality and are blindly being led. Xtians have turned blind eye to what their tithe is being used for(as long as they pay 10% they do not want to know whether it goes into pastor's ostentatious lifestyle which does not reflect what JESUS preached or whether it is going to those who need it).The half baked muslims fanatics do not understand the teachings of ISLAM cos if they do, they would never go taking other peoples lives (inclusive of muslims)cos it is against the teachings of al ISLAM.

crys said...

tithing is based on a personal conviction from your spirit.u dont do it cos u r financing a church or helping God sef,cos either ways witout our tithe God wil still fund His church,cos He banks anywhere even in d mouth of a fish.and of course he dsnt need our money.i 4 like to say hold ur money o,but dt would be rily bad of me,my dear dont hold it o,give it out,either to a church or d needy.bt any which way make sure that 10% leaves ur hand and sis,plz try not to worry abt how its spent,let God be d judge of dat.ur own shld be releasing the money.we pay tax irrespective of d bad roads,poor power supply,etc.so plz jst do ur duty to God and let Him be d judge!!!its like dis,out of every blessing,u have d seed and u have the fruit,u eat the fruit and plant the seed.it is the same wit our tithe as regards our income,u put back ur 10% as ur tithe and d rest is ur fruit,u determine how u want to use it.i pray u gain a personal understanding of tithing and its importance in christianity and even in lyf generally.

sleekreek said...

Linda,,,u are very funny and the way u reasoned about dis issue is far below my expectation.....

Listen good,,u are not paying tithe and offering to man,,,u are paying it to God,,,,,God's standard will never change irrespective of whatever goes on in the world,,,he has spoken already so its up to u.........more over y do u have to allow mere mortals change ur thoughts towards the things of God,,the fact that church-owned universities are expensive should not be a problem to u,,,u should look up to God as ur saviour and not any church or man of God.....remember that all these men of God,,they are firstly MEN before they became OF GOD,,,,so naturally u should expect some flaws in them too cos they are also human.......

The bitter truth is TITHE IS COMPULSORY,,,ITS EITHER U PAY IT TO GOD OR THE DEVIL.....by the time u start incurring unnecessary expenses,,then u should know that someway,somehow u are paying tithe......so y not give it to GOD??

Anonymous said...

u have robbed God greatly without pity linda. what's the difference btw u and those so called high way robbers??? how can you be physically, mentally, emotionally, financially stable without honoring him with the first fruit of your increase eh? if u like pray, fast, praise from now till whenever....NOTHING will happen. if you don't give to him what's duly his how are you gon REAP it back. if you want a glorious harvest of success in your everyday life all you simply need to do is dethrone that spirit of not giving so that jesus will be enthroned through ur tithes and offering cos giving to God comes first. i pray these words gain entrance into you heart. God bless you. Ezinne
*** am a dedicated reader of your blog and this is the first time am leaving a commment.

PIA said...

Hi Lin, u feel that way about tithing only bcos u think the money is urs dat u nid to tithe from. God said "...and yet u rob me..." He cud only use the word 'rob'(not 'cheated') bcos d said money is His. u can only say "Oh! I have been robbed" bcos d 'bad guys' took what's YOURS.And bliv me, God is the best business partner u can ever have;imagine him doin business with u and lets u keep 90% and then uses His own 10% to bring better business for u? It dsnt get better than that...

Anonymous said...

your fiancial seed is not a donation but a spiritual transaction between you and God. your tithes and offering not withstanding, the convenant of God will always prevail because he is the God of supplies.

Linda Ikeji said...

you people can like to abuse me sha...lol. whatever, me i have talk my own...:-)

Anonymous said...

Tithing and the Law
The commandment to tithe was part of the Law that Jehovah God gave to the 12 tribes of ancient Israel more than 3,500 years ago. That Law decreed that a tenth of the produce of the land and fruit trees and a tenth of the increase of the herds be given to the tribe of Levi in support of their services at the tabernacle.—Leviticus 27:30, 32; Numbers 18:21, 24.
The Law did not specify a penalty for failing to tithe, but each Israelite was under a strong moral obligation to support true worship in this way. In fact, Jehovah accused Israelites who neglected tithing in Malachi’s day of ‘robbing him in tithes and offerings.’ (Malachi 3:8, New International Version) Could the same charge be leveled at Christians who do not tithe?
In addition, although it is true that God never changes, his requirements sometimes do. (Malachi 3:6) The Bible states categorically that the sacrificial death of Jesus, in 33 C.E., “blotted out,” or “abolished,” the Law and with it the “commandment to collect tithes.”—Colossians 2:13, 14; Ephesians 2:13-15; Hebrews 7:5, 18.

Anonymous said...

The view most people have is that when they pay tithe they pay to the church, but tithe is actually for God so when you do you're doing it for nobody except God.

Anonymous said...

Rather than specifying an amount or a percentage, Paul merely suggested that “on the first day of every week, each one . . . should set aside a sum of money in keeping with his income.” (Italics ours; 1 Corinthians 16:2, NIV) By planning and reserving an amount on a regular basis, the Corinthians would not feel pressured into giving begrudgingly or on emotional impulse when Paul arrived. For each Christian, the decision of how much to give was to be a private matter, one that ‘he had resolved in his own heart.’—2 Corinthians 9:5, 7.

childofthemosthigh said...

LINDA AND ALL HER READERS REFUSE/BLOCK YOUR EARS TO anon 10:03, he/she said 'FORGET WHAT THE BIBLE SAYS" THAT IS THE WORD OF THE ANTI-CHRIST!!For the anti-chist will attempt to twist the word of God to a perverse and untrue manner
@Linda no one here is trying to insult you. I'm glad because now you know the truth!so you can either choose to walk in light or darkness after all God has given us all Freewill here on earth,but always keep this in mind you will face God individual but it's always worse to know the Right but still choose the wrong, than to never knowing the truth

Anonymous said...

Offerings and Tithes
11 In Malachi’s day God’s people brought in literal offerings and tithes, such as grain, fruit, and livestock. Even in Jesus’ day, faithful Israelites made literal offerings at the temple. However, after Jesus’ death all that changed. The Law was abolished, including the command to present specific material offerings and tithes. (Ephesians 2:15) Jesus fulfilled the prophetic type of the offerings under the Law. (Ephesians 5:2; Hebrews 10:1, 2, 10) In what way, then, can Christians bring in offerings and tithes?
What about tithes, though? Are Christians obligated to put aside a tenth of their material income and give it to Jehovah’s organization, comparable to what is done in some churches of Christendom? No, that is not required. There is no scripture stating such a rule for Christians. When Paul was collecting contributions for needy ones in Judea, he did not mention a specific percentage that should be given. Rather, he said: “Let each one do just as he has resolved in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:7) In speaking of those in special ministries, Paul showed that while some were quite properly supported by voluntary contributions, he was prepared to work and support himself. (Acts 18:3, 4; 1 Corinthians 9:13-15) There were no tithes assigned for this purpose

Anie said...

Hello dear Linda,I hope this helps you eventually.Unfortunately,we pay dearly for the wrong choices we make in life.Read through a whole lot of write ups here.One thing is certain,we disobey God,we pay the price.Total obedience to God's Word makes the difference...as a sheep led to be slaughtered it should be for Christians.For a Christian,heaven isn't sure if tithes isn't paid..source..the Holy Writ.Malachi3:8-11.God calls those who don't pay tithes ROBBERS and ACCURSED.No robber will be allowed into His Kingdom..bottomline.Your choice dear.But please go with paying of tithes,my advice.Jesus is coming back and heaven is real.Accepting Him as one's Lord and Saviour is the ticket to heaven.Cheers!

Anonymous said...

never try to be rational with the bible just obey what it says. pay tithes and offerings is a command so if you are truely a christian this wont be a subject for debate. SIMPLE

Anonymous said...

Linda, why don't you make a contribution to all the comments? I hope you know that 'Knowledge is power'.

Anonymous said...

To think you were even wrong with the numbers you put out... you think sounding as a deviant will mean you have arrived?

Anonymous said...

Linda you've been accused of posting wrong figures. whats going on with you these days?your baseless statements makes people(e.g tonto and countless of readers)talk to you without an atom of respect. this isn't good for you considering your age. Get your facts right before posting it up

Anonymous said...

Anonymous 11:05, there is something called accountability even the bible recognises that, confer to the parable of the servants whom their master gave different amount of talents and inquired of them how they used it on his return; you remember the saying 'to whom much is given much is expected of' that is accountability and responsible stewardship. Infact, we need to know what the pastors do with the tithes and offerings, doing otherwise is similar to the culture of sharing money from the Federation Account without any accountability as to what it was used for. Linda, I share similar concerns as you.

Nigerius said...

Linda, I was forced to link to this post after reading through it on my own blog.

And like I asked there: Who commands you to pay tithe? God or Man?

I think you know the answer to that. But just to emphasize a point: God is the giver of wealth. Just obey him and disregard what your mind tells you. And as for the expensive school fees: I think there must be reasons. Especially regarding keeping up to the standards. It's not easy to maintain the salary of private seconday school staffs, talk more of a University. University of Ghana is there for you if you want to spend as much as Covenant University's fees and they've got one of the best ranking in the world. Just my one naira piece of advice anyway.

Anonymous said...

Linda Linda, the body of christ does not need ur money! who do u think u are????????? with or without ur tithe, u can see the kingdom of God is ADVANCING!!! and guess what God is REALLYYYYYY blessing the tithers.. continue to be ignorant!!!1 am begging u do not give a cent to the work of God!!!

nich said...

part 1

i hope u guys would see my reason,............

first, the best universities in africa is the university of cairo egypt and the university of cape town south africa. please u can check for the records. this is followed by 3 other universities in south africa. but dear readers and linda what do u expect.......the white mans influence is dominant in this two universities with little or no corruption unlike your country nigeria where greed is the other of the day.

while the university of nsuka,ui, lagos, abia,porharcourt seems to be the biggest universities in nigeria. but however the size of the university is not what makes it the best.

Anonymous said...

TITHE: They will only tell you half truths- Can a man rob God? Mal 3:8 but they will never tell or show you the first mention of TITHE in the bible. I challenge you to read Deut 14:22-29 and shine your eyes. Mal 3: 8 was talking to the levites o

Anonymous said...

@ Joan, you can only read Malachi after you have the background knowledge of who Malachi was refering to. Read Deut 14 :22-29 and Numbers 18:28... And dont get me wrong, I dont have a problem with given and given according to how the spirit leads you but not out of fear of a misquoted scripture

Kemi said...

"Ujustkidding" - God bless you a million fold. You put it sooo much better than i would have. Whether this was in an attempt to get traffic or not, i believe this topic and its comments will speak to a few people's hearts in someway - God will use whatever and whomever He desires.
Even when people dash me money, i tithe on it as that money was an increase. God has multiplied me and is continuing to multiply me in ways i never even dreamt of. That's the beauty of a covenant relationship.

Anonymous said...

All those quoting the Old Testament to substantiate tithing for christians, do you also abide by its other tenets such as unclean animals to avoid, the keeping of the sabbath and sewing fringes to garments?
Moreso, do you abide by Christ's saying and shun premarital sex, immodest dressing, cursing and dishonesty?
When will you realize that Christians are not under the Mosaic Law which the Israelites themselves couldn't keep, anyway?
Now, this in no way means the Old Testament is irrelevant for the spirit of the Law and the principles behind each command are eternal.
Please, read your bibles yourselves. A pastoral position does not absolve any from accountability and transparent demeanor.
This is just one reason I find the worship of the Jehovah's Witnesses appealing. Why burden people down with inessential dos when the little The Lord expects of them they can't keep yet!

nicholas said...

part 2

But the best university is not because of size.

1. Organization (administrative and none administrative)
2. infrastructure (facilities)
3. serenity and location
4. financial power
5. the vision of the university (leadership)
6. availability of students resources

the university of cape town south africa and the university of cairo egypt has been for long. but from every aspect i think that the best nigerian university is covenant university. i also believe that it will surpass the university of cairo and cape town in the next ten yrs. why,......

1. the concept for covenant university came from the oral robert university in the united states. it has followed its courses to the later.

2. the proffessors are well paid and earn almost the same equivalent with their counterparts in the states and europe.

3. covenant university cannot fail because it is funded by one the the largest pentecostal churches in this present times.

4. it is %95 corruption free and %100 cultism free.

5. it is also the only university in nigeria that is directly accepted by uk universties when you want to continue your education without the classes that the student have taken being re-evaluated

6. it is an oracle, ict, cisco university.

7. it also commands the most powerful facilities and study facilities for students.....24hrs high speed internet, 24hrs electricity and water. it has the largest library in africa with modern facilities

nich said...

part 2

But the best university is not because of size.

1. Organization (administrative and none administrative)
2. infrastructure (facilities)
3. serenity and location
4. financial power
5. the vision of the university (leadership)
6. availability of students resources

the university of cape town south africa and the university of cairo egypt has been for long. but from every aspect i think that the best nigerian university is covenant university. i also believe that it will surpass the university of cairo and cape town in the next ten yrs. why,......

1. the concept for covenant university came from the oral robert university in the united states. it has followed its courses to the later.

2. the proffessors are well paid and earn almost the same equivalent with their counterparts in the states and europe.

3. covenant university cannot fail because it is funded by one the the largest pentecostal churches in this present times.

4. it is %95 corruption free and %100 cultism free.

5. it is also the only university in nigeria that is directly accepted by uk universties when you want to continue your education without the classes that the student have taken being re-evaluated

6. it is an oracle, ict, cisco university.

7. it also commands the most powerful facilities and study facilities for students.....24hrs high speed internet, 24hrs electricity and water. it has the largest library in africa with modern facilities

nich said...

part 3

10. the environment is the most conducive for any student living in nigeria. it is as neat as the schools in europe and the united states with %100 security for students. we have already seen what david oyedepo did with canaanland and the same goes to covenant university. covenant university . now that the have plans to build one of the most powerful medical facilities in africa.......i believe that the will take over as the best in africa.

they do not have a teaching hospital and medical students yet because no teaching hospital will be able to match the students. so they are planning to build their own.

nich said...

part 5

these churches have done well.....they have helped to retain africa's talent......many who go to europe and the usa to study eventualy stays back...

pls also do ur reasearch well...most of these churches have been helping the poor....but the must not make it public.
paying of tight is God's command and it is left by choice

Anonymous said...

Linda dont insult God. Pay your tithe my dear.

Anonymous said...

A. Do better research a little better next time, Covenant University School fees is 511000 AT MOST

B. Read your bible, paying tithe of your proceedings is clearly stated in the bible, it is left for you to obey

C. If you feel cheated by the price of private "church-owned" university fees. Look for a church that doesn't own a university and attend so you can pay your tithe there

D. Lastly, if you can't afford to send your child to a private church owned university, just strive to be better and earn more money to do so.

Yevandy said...

im so sorry linda your excuses are the worse ever...
YOUR FACTS ARE WRONG.
im a covenant university student.

Anonymous said...

Linda if you think education is expensive, try ignorance

Anonymous said...

but this Linda, u have thick skin o, see all the insults and u upload them? if it's me 90% of these comments will not see the light of day

i learn from u every day. well done my dear

Folu said...

Linda Ikeji, I can see that some people have thwarted your mindset. The bible instructs us to pay tithe, not the Pastors. When you give your tithe, you do not give it to man but to God for your own good.
Linda, even if as you were laying it on the altar you see the Pastor pick it and put in his own pocket, you should not be moved by it.
Its between you and God, and there is a promise with it Malachi 3:10-12.
The bible says pay your tithes that there may be MEAT in mine house. So its not new that they use the money to develop the church, build schools and get on tv etc. Its up to the Pastor as he is led by the Spirit of God to do.
For your info, my niece is in Covenant University, she will graduate next year, she is spending just about 3+ years to graduate.
No strike, not once.
They have good hostel facility, thought good morals, internet (wifi).....etc. For your info as well, many private Primary schools and secondary schools cost same and are not owned by church, how come you no post that one. Yeye girl.
Go to Grace primary, secondary school and find out how much them dey pay.
For your info again! The founder of grace died last week, you might want to post that as well as their school fees.
Pay you tithe and be sure to pay it in your church. If you give to beggars and NGOs, its called donation and not tithe.
Do the right thing. Remember say you dey look for bobo, you never know whats delaying it.
God is trying to get your attention, you are very talented, very! But with God you can do a lot more!
Love
Folu

Lollie said...

I absolutely see your point Linda. Only God knows his true followers. However, the bible teaches us to tithe. If you feel your church is stealing your money, then why should you be a part of that congregation? Go where your heart is free to give, and obey God's commandment. I go to a church that gives me an account of all the good my money does every quater. I am very very happy to tithe and give offerings to my church. My prayer is for God to bless me more so I can give more.

Lollie said...

check out this link. I pray it inspires you:
http://youtu.be/upmyrinWq64.

Don't let the bad eggs deprive you of even more blessings God could have in store for you. Find a church your heart is comfortable with and tithe there.

Ladi said...

While I am not commenting on your decision to tithe or not, i feel obliged to ask us all to do a simple analysis of the actual cost of education before making any irrational conclusions.

For the sake of argument consider these conservative cost estimates per student:

* Accommodation per student/year (Power, security, water etc.) - N100,000
* Feeding at the rate of N250 per meal , 3 meals per day over 34 weeks assuming that students are home for summer and mid semester vacations for about 18 weeks - N178,000
* Books at the rate of N800 per text assuming 8 courses a semester for 2 semesters - N12,800


Now this analysis has not factored other costs like:
* tuition facilities
* laboratory equipment
* facility maintenance - gardeners, electricians, laborers etc
* government taxes and other regulatory charges which may be charged per head or not
* community levies for the localities these schools operate from
*staff upkeep - board, feeding, allowances - the staff are not priests or pastors that have signed up for community service

Based on the figures analysed alone we are already in the range of N291,300 (excluding the other identified potential costs).


I have used conservative estimates. so lets feel free to update these cost items as appropriate and do the maths. let our arguments be based on facts rather than fictitious assumptions. Its only fair to have the facts right.

PS: Pardon any double counts or errors in my calculation . feel free to update any areas you do not agree with or to provide costs for the ones i have missed out

Ladi said...

In addition to my previous comment (which i hope has been approved by the Linda). We may also want to do a more detailed analysis of how many people actually pay tithes and the value of the tithes received versus church projects that need to be funded. It is why most churches still have to do fund raising programs for capital intensive projects.

I cant really comment on the administration of academic scholarships but let us consider the proportion of the congregation that will appreciate the free education, the carpenter's child deserves it as much as the Government worker or banker's kid (maybe one more than the other in reality). but the truth is that you dont pay your tithe in order to claim academic rebate or any other benefits for that matter (talk about paying tithes and not getting a meal after service on Sunday ;-)). You pay and let go. If anyone requires a church aid, i am sure there are mechanisms in place to arrange that although it may be very difficult to determine who deserves it over the other.

Food for thought. I am sure we can all come up with more constructive ways of resolving the issue of poverty in our country but it will never be 100% practical because there are just many many more people that require the funds than even our tithes or offerings can completely address. The proportion is absurd and its just the reality on ground.

CABONGO said...

MALACHI CHAPTER 3 VERSE 8-12. LET THIS BE THE END OF THE CONTROVERSY.

Anonymous said...

They are all business people, I attend one of them schools and imagine this people increasing the fees incessantly and at the end of sessions, you are forced to pay for books you didn't collect, in short they can never owe you because when they do, they levy profane charges till you become the debtor. Nigerians and their ways, but tithing is a function of individual belief, we choose what to believe in ourselves.

Mbabazi said...

In paying tithe you are fulfilling God's word and not man's. You can only pray for God to give the church leaders wisdom to do right with the money.
Its like not forgiving people because they aren't forgiving others.
You only pay tithe because of your faith but it helps to have an accountable church.

Mbabazi said...

In paying tithe you are fulfilling God's word and not man's. You can only pray for God to give the church leaders wisdom to do right with the money.
Its like not forgiving people because they aren't forgiving others.
You only pay tithe because of your faith but it helps to have an accountable church.

Bambi said...

its a lie covenant university doesn't pay up to that, i graduated last year nd my final yr fees wasn't even up to 400000, pls stop spreading false information linda

mimi said...

HA linda!im a covenant uni studnt n my present sch fees is 400 n sth, nt in the 600 range o!the fact that ur getn that figure rong means the others are probably inflated too...just bringin down ur blogs credibility with jist. p.s. u seem to hav heard plenti on tithe.so u cant claim ignorant, but check this. God DOES NOT NEED YOUR MONEY. ITS PEANUTS. Stop using someones schoolfees as an excuse. very unrelated

Anonymous said...

i live in france and was shocked to see that they DO NOT collect offerings or tithes i brought my offerin n was told no one wld ever take money from you in a church in france!

Anonymous said...

true talk mimi

Anonymous said...

linda! ur analysis is wrong..
covenant pays a little over 500,000 atm BABCOCK is not even taking things easy, we pay over 700,000 and yet the school is not part of first 100 in africa that is sad and yet all they know how to do is buy SUVs worth 9 millon each for school officials, and other exotic cars if they want to do business let them do it and stop using church name to camouflage..GOD WILL JUDGE!

Anonymous said...

hmm..about paying of tithes, I think some folks have helped correct your reasoning about it. The earth is the Lord's and the fullness thereof.. Your tithing is an avenue to safeguard your 90%, go and read about peeps like John D Rockefeller and Robert Kiyosaki's rich dad. Now I am a very recent CU graduate, a first class one for that matter..lol..no bragging, 1.) we did not pay up to that, and I studied engineering. 2.) What I gained in CU, the money I paid is too small for it. 3.) Covenant University is just 10years old or so, and we have 5 CCIEs already, (I am a Cisco Freak,you can read up who a CCIE is and you will open your mouth in amazement..lol), how many Federal Schools can boast of that, the buildings, the classrooms, the theatre we have, the school you went to sef, can they boast of it. 4.) Private Universities have redeemed the image of Schooling In Nigeria, in fact they have helped the government, see how many people write JAMB yearly, and if there were no private schools, where the unadmitted will turn to, whether some might not have turned to miscreants and maybe "meet" you on your way back home from work one day. 5.) Get your facts right and I think your mis-information is because you are not so connected or maybe you are not listening to the right message about tithes.

Anonymous said...

linda i share the same views with you i prefer giving thithe to orphanages and the needy than the churches, most nigerians are docile, jesus said as far as you have given to the needy amongst you its him you have given, the new testament and christ said they pharises has left the important things like love and charity and concentrate on tithe most of the people paying tithe to pastors are corrupt people or bribe collectors they think they can bribe god. the core values of religion is righteous and holiness and love. one day these churches will not be able to exist in these soceitywhen people are more educated they will rise up against the churches.churches are charity organization elsewhere but because of corruption here they are amasing wealth.even prostitutes pay tithe in naija where is morality? the west that brought christainity brougt slavery and capitalism. lets think right.

Anonymous said...

It is good to TITHE, but i see no reason why the SCHOOOL fees should be high.

Prince said...

What has tithing has to do with funding private institution? Tithe is used for church affairs such as counseling, feeding the needy, maintaining the church and paying for their services. The University has to equipped, maintained, pay lecturers etc. In fact, looking at it is relatively cheap compared to some higher institutions around the world even the government owned universities.

Anonymous said...

The truth is; no one can tell you why you should give an offering or pay your tithe. It's from your heart, because you know what you want from God and believe in Him for it to come to pass. Unfortunately some churches have turned it into a business which is sad, but it is left for God to judge and you to do your part in being faithful and true to your heart.
My pastor always says "If your offering is not from your heart, don't bother giving it, because it will be useless to God and to you". So Linda until you study the Bible deeply only then you will find the answer to your question.

Anonymous said...

Linda the bible commands dat u pay ur tithe ,u might say GOD doesn't need ur money but the gospel is not cheap,ave u ever heard of missionaries google them and find out and stop JUdging Christianity by the flamboyance u see.

Secondly your tithe has nothing to do with the reasons u gave.your robbing GOD HOHA READ MALACHI CHAPTER THREE

Anonymous said...

Your tithe is not alms and gifts the bible says you should give that cos the poor will always be in our mist.but ur tithe na GOD MONEY NOT FOR POOR PEOPLE I MEAN NO INSULT BUT THE WORD IS THE WORD AND GOD IS A RESPECTER OF HIS OWN WORDS IF HE SAYS TITHE DON'T REMOVE A KOBO FROM IT ,I AM A LIVING TESTIMONEY OF TITHES AND OFFERINGS AND AM NOT TALKING OF MONETARY BLESSINGS SO U DON'T GET ME WRONG IF U DON'T KNOW TITHE NA FOR UR BENEFIT NOT FOR GOD READ THE BIBLE BEYOND THE LOGOS AND ASK GOD FOR APERSONAL AND DEEPER RVELATION ON THE PRINCIPLES OFTITHING

Anonymous said...

I am a Covenant University student and having spent 4 years in that school, we don't pay that much as school fees. The issue of paying your tithe is to God not man. If you don't want to pay to churches with schools go to small sincere churches to pay.You are robbing God if you don't pay tithe. An advice: Try to remove your mind from any tithe or offering and don't think of what it was used for. May God help you to see things clearly.

whistle blower said...

The questin ut forward is not really the issue of tithe, but why universities run by missionaries are so expensive. We seem to have forgotten that the original missionaries who came to nigeria gave virtually free education to nigerias i.e. methodist boys high school etc. Therefore, if the churches are carrying out a 'labour of love'they ought to freely give as they recieve.

modupe said...

linda, some of the figures you qouted as 'school fees'are wrong. im a covenant university student and our sch fees is not even close to 650,000 per session.

Unknown said...

Linda....there's a way that seems right to man, but the end thereof is destruction. You dont have to question what they use the money for. Beisdes, how much of congregation's money do u think can afford to build a university? If you are truly a christian then you will obey God's word and pay your tithe. It is a payment not giving...if God tells u to pay for the air you breathe, how much of it do u think you can afford in a day. What the church does with the money is between the Pastor and God but u've played ur part.

Besides, the info u have about school fees is totally false.

With the way education is going in Nigeria it is obvious that the government does not even care about these youths. That crime has greatly increased today is as a result of frustrated citizens who JAMB has dealt with and who have now remained at home mostly cos of outrageous strikes. Now if you were in their situations, u will understand what good these private universities are doing. In addition, they dont just teach dese students, they also groom them morally. Not to mention that school like Covenant Uni also go the extra-mile to bring one of the best Companies who recruit these students at their final year so that after NYSC, they can get good jobs. How many state or federal unis do that. Infact, i could write a whole journal on this so when u become a parent, make ur decision on how to give ur child a befitting education and if u dont have the money...then this is where ur tithe comes in.

How will u be able to pay for the school-fees when the devourer is not rebuked? Have u even read Malachi 3:10? Ok, u prefer to give ur money to charity and poor people...thats fine too but babes, all that will not rebuke the devourer. Who is the devourer? Car always in the machanic, hospital bills (wen u can have divine health), etc thats how the devil steals back this money that u dnt want to give God because there's no protection on ur finances. You should be grateful to your younger sis, she loves u and wants the best for u. You nid to give ur life to Christ honestly cos that wraps up all of this. Your mentality has to change and only the WORD can have such positive effect on you.

Christianity is a life-style not a religion so if u wannna be a christian don't do 50%, u gotta go all in dear. Funny'we have d same name and i'm not happy with ur ideas sis...u gotta change that mentality. Its just not right.

Anonymous said...

Linda, I really thot u were smarter than this. sorry to say u sound really illiterate with ur post and this has given me another reason to stop visiting this site. The first was why u always promote that lowlife magazine called Global News. Give urself some credit girl.

God does not need ur MISERABLE MONEY. He owns the cattles on the thousand hills. He gave u the money u seem to hv become so proud of and can take it back in a second. Giving tithes to God is not for his good but for your own good. i hope u're not being carried away by this blog business.

Anonymous said...

How many parents in Nigeria can afford such a colossal amount? yes I know those who can afford it.. yes... those who have stolen the state money... yes those who got those ill gotten wealth.... yes those who have access to collateral to loans... wait are this churches not encouraging stealing.... if you attend a missionary school while growing up you will understand schools don't need to be expensive ones it is own by church... like john Wesley,st. mary ,st leo ... to name but few... but when nigerian pastors get into this school venture greed is the other of the day as that is the attitude of the common Nigerian... the schools are built on money collected from the likes of my father who is a welder and who does not have access to still from Govt. or have access to a collateral that will make him indebted to the banks till death... please Linda have got your back as if it is mine.. ride on... This churches should take a clue from the people that started churches and see what they do with tight and offering... free schools, free health care, low cost housing that was all they do with the offering and tithes... not buying Jet and Jeeps from the return of the arm bending fees they collected from thieves....

Anonymous said...

LINDA THIS IS THE FIRST TIME I WILL CHECK UR BLOG AND GOODNESS!!!!!! WHERE DID U GET THE FEE RATES FROM...I NEARLY HAD AN HEART ATTACK COS I ATTEND COVENANT UNIVERSITY AND IM IN FINAL YEAR, I HAVE NEVER PAID UP TO 400K BEFORE MATTER OF FACT..THIS SESSION FEES IS THE FIRST TIME MOST OF US WILL BE PAYING A LITTLE ABOVE 400K..............PLS LINDA ALWAYS CHECK FOR FACTS NB: WE HAVE PEEPS WHO SCAM THEIR PARENTS OOO SO MAYB THEY R THE ONES PAYING THAT AMT

PROTHESIS said...

One question for u Linda...are u paying ur tithe wirhnthe mindset that that is what u owe God(1/10 of ur income )or a u payi g tithe becus u don't want the church to usenur money ato build schools????

Anonymous said...

just stumbled on this post, and i hope it isnt too late to comment. Running a school with good educational quality is rather expensive and let,s not forget that it is a private one for that matter, i know of secodary and primary schools in nigeria that pay as much as a million naira and above, and dont forget that igbenidion is also a private university whose standard isnt as good as covenant and they still pay more, ambti-america university in yola is also a good example and they pay over a million naira. i dont understand why you have a problem with these schools cause they are missionary schools. forget about the church and try running a school where you have to pay staff, pay for diesel, have all the ameniteies, running water, internet access, PAsystems in classes, visual projectors and tvs are used in classes just like their counterparts in foreign countries. do you know that the most expensive schools outside this nation are own by private individuals or organisations? and they also started out as missionary schools? e.g havard?. you cannot compare a private university with a public one where, the government is the one funding it and they still end up with 1500 students in a class of 700. i know a computer science graduate from lasu that doesnt know the first thing about programming and using software packages, these are schoo,s where they still teach them old and archaic programming languages. now let's come down to the issue of tithe and offerings, i honestly dont believe you are naive enough to think the tithes and offerings are the ones funding a school as big as covenant, you are a business woman linda, you should know a thing or two about running business, your offering and tithe is between you and God and not between you and the church, whatever you believe in will work for you, it is no longer your business how the church use the money, whe God says pay your tithe he knew well enough that he wont spend your money in heaven, and definitely your money will beused here on earth, a school will certainly not run aon manna from heaven be it goverment or private. i pray you stop being short-sighted about this issue, i'm a product of covenant university and i finished my masters outside this country, i work with a big I.T firm and within a space of 6months i was promoted to head system analyst, the school not only imbibed in me good education, it also thought me about life, God, relating with others and a good character. The choice is yours pay your tithe or not, it has nothing to do with the schools, it is about You!

Anonymous said...

THANK YOU MY FELLOW CU STUDENT PLEASE TELL HER OH.

Anonymous said...

Good point

law said...

Please all of you mentioning old testament as your reference I really want to see any of you to show me a reference in the new testament about tilting. Will be please to see a quote from the bible (new testament).

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