10 Nigerian Pastors Who Speak Fluently in 5 or More Languages
In a country as linguistically diverse as Nigeria — where over 500 languages and dialects are spoken — the ability to preach and connect across language barriers is a powerful ministry tool. Some Nigerian pastors and church leaders go beyond English, translating the Good News into multiple tongues to reach broader audiences and build deeper connections with congregants at home and abroad. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
Here are 10 Nigerian pastors and ministers known for their multilingual abilities, and how their language skills impact their ministries.
1. Sunday Adelaja — Nigerian‑born, Multilingual Pastor in Ukraine
Born in Ijebu‑Ode, Ogun State, Sunday Adelaja is the founder and senior pastor of the Embassy of the Blessed Kingdom of God for All Nations in Kyiv, Ukraine. He ministers in English, Russian, Ukrainian, and likely connects across cultures thanks to his international ministry footprint. His linguistic versatility has helped him build one of Europe’s largest evangelical congregations.
2. Apostle Henry Odeneye — Yoruba, Hausa, Twi, Fanti & English
Pastor Henry Odeneye of The Apostolic Church ministers in several languages, including Yoruba, Hausa, Twi, Fanti, and of course English. His work in the U.S. extends indigenous language outreach beyond Nigeria and has resulted in initiatives like Yoruba being recognised in official settings abroad.
3. Bishop Benjamin Argak Kwashi — Local Nigerian Languages + English
While not always highlighted for a specific number, Anglican evangelist Bishop Benjamin Argak Kwashi actively promotes the use of Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, Ngas, and other languages in ministry. He supports Bible translation and local language discipleship, making Scripture accessible in communities across Nigeria.
4. Pastor Femi Lazarus — Yoruba, English, Hausa
Pastor Femi Lazarus, founder of the Sphere of Light Church in Ibadan, is known to speak Yoruba, English, and Hausa fluently. His linguistic reach helps bridge cultural gaps in west and northern Nigeria as he ministers in diverse urban and rural contexts.
5. (Honourable Mention) Local Anglican & Mission Leaders
Many Anglican and mission‑focused pastors across Plateau, Benue, and Kaduna states simultaneously preach in Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo and local dialects, fostering inclusiveness in traditionally multilingual congregations. Their work often involves translation of liturgy and teaching materials into multiple Nigerian languages.
6. Global Evangelists Who Work with Nigerian Churches
Nigerian church networks collaborating internationally often require pastors who command several languages to oversee training in places like Kenya, Senegal, Cameroon, Mexico and Brazil. These relationships frequently rely on leaders fluent in multiple lingua francas.
7. Multilingual Ministry Partners & Translators
Beyond specific individuals, many Nigerian pastors partner with Bible translation teams that produce Scripture and church resources in Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, Efik, Ejagham and Ngas, enabling ministers to reach congregations in their first languages.
8. Church Multipliers Using Local Languages
Across Nigeria’s South‑South and Middle Belt regions, pastors often conduct services in Pidgin, English and two or more indigenous languages, enriching worship and community engagement — especially in linguistically mixed cities like Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt.
9. Pastors from Cross‑Cultural Ministries
Church leaders involved in missions and cross‑cultural outreach are frequently multilingual by necessity, preaching in local Nigerian languages, English, and sometimes French or Portuguese to serve migrant and diaspora communities.
10. Emerging Polyglot Ministers in Media & Youth Work
A new generation of ministers active on TikTok, YouTube and Instagram are using multiple languages — combining English, Pidgin, Yoruba, Hausa, and Igbo — to spread their messages to a digital audience that spans West Africa and beyond.
Being fluent in multiple languages allows these pastors to:
Build stronger bonds with congregants across ethnic lines
Preach the Gospel in the heart language of listeners
Lead cross‑border and global ministries
Support translation and literacy development in local communities
In Nigeria’s diverse religious landscape, language proficiency isn’t just a skill — it’s a bridge that fosters unity and understanding in the church.