Nigerians react as Pastor Kingsley Okonkwo launches marriage platform with N700,000 VIP package

Pastor Kingsley Okonkwo, founder of David’s Christian Centre and well-known relationship expert, has stirred a mix of reactions online after unveiling his faith-based matchmaking platform, "Mentor To Marry." This platform offers annual membership fees ranging from N70,000 to a whopping N700,000. The platform aims to connect Christian singles who are looking for relationships that are focused on marriage through mentoring, assessments, and expert matchmaking.

However, the pricing model has sparked intense discussion on social media, with many Nigerians questioning the cost of a service meant to aid singles in finding life partners.

On the X platform, @gatsegwasiPhD expressed their disagreement, pointing out what they perceived as a contradiction. They argued that while Okonkwo stated relationships are becoming commercialized, he's now making his matchmaking service commercial as well. "Don’t you see how you are contradicting yourself? You say relationships are commercialised and men who don’t have money should still pay M700,000 to meet ‘godly’ women?

So tell me, who has such an amount if not rich men?" echoed @DaraMoren1, criticizing the pricing model. They questioned whether a regular membership, premium, or VIP package was even affordable or valuable in today’s dating landscape. Similarly, @ndilichi1261151 questioned the necessity of the highest package, suggesting it might not provide enough value in the modern dating scene.

On Facebook, King Phill voiced his concerns, describing what he saw as another contradiction in the pastor's message. "If relationships have become increasingly commercialised, then why is he also commercialising it?" asked King Phill. Comfort Bassey Bee also chimed in, asking if the pastor’s position on commercialising relationships justified his own commercialisation of the matchmaking service.

Despite the criticism, some Nigerians defended the idea, arguing that matchmaking and relationship coaching are not new concepts. Neo, a former Big Brother Naija housemate, defended the platform, stating, "The man did nothing wrong. Since Nigerian men and women cannot choose right to save their own lives, maybe paying for counselling will unlock common sense."

Others pointed out that the platform offered more than just matchmaking, including mentorship and assessments, which could help singles make better relationship choices.

The debate continues to be a hot topic across various social media platforms, with opinions sharply divided. Some see the initiative as a practical solution to the challenges of modern dating, while others believe the cost is a significant barrier to accessing marriage opportunities.