A New Year prophecy from the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, forecasting a wave of Nigerians returning from abroad, has triggered a major online controversy. The prediction, dubbed 'reverse japa', has been publicly challenged by popular US-based social media influencer, Tunde Ednut, setting off a firestorm of reactions across social media platforms.
The Prophetic Declaration at Redemption City
The contentious forecast was delivered during the RCCG's annual crossover service at Redemption City, marking the transition from 2025 to 2026. Pastor Adeboye described the coming year as one that would surpass 2025, with spiritual momentum from 2024 strengthening to bring more opportunities and breakthroughs.
Focusing on Nigeria, the revered clergyman prophesied a noticeable reduction in hunger and an easing of economic hardships. However, the most talked-about part of his message was the prediction that many Nigerians who relocated overseas in search of better opportunities—a phenomenon popularly known as 'japa'—would begin to return home. Adeboye suggested this 'reverse japa' would be driven by improving conditions and a renewed sense of hope within the country.
Tunde Ednut's Blunt Rejection
The prophecy did not sit well with everyone, particularly with members of the diaspora who have experienced life abroad. Leading the charge in opposition was Atlanta-based influencer Tunde Ednut. In a sharp and direct response, Ednut explicitly rejected the prediction concerning his own life.
"Reverse Japa shall not work for me in Jesus’ name. Pastor, take that back," Ednut wrote in a comment that quickly went viral. His retort encapsulated the skepticism of many Nigerians living abroad who remain unconvinced about a near-term turnaround in the nation's challenges, which include insecurity, infrastructure deficits, and economic instability.
Nigerians Weigh In: A Divided Public Opinion
The online exchange between the cleric and the influencer opened the floodgates for public commentary, revealing a deeply divided opinion on the feasibility of a 'reverse japa' wave.
Many users echoed Tunde Ednut's sentiments, questioning the basis for returning to persistent issues. One user, aikay53, commented: "Come back to insecurity, bad roads, no good hospitals, hunger etc This pastors don see Naija people finish." Another, chisaronu1, pointedly noted the prophecy spoke of a "reduction of hunger in 2026? Not ERADICATION OF HUNGER."
The debate also took a political turn, with some comments linking the nation's future to political outcomes. User prof_masterjoe told Ednut: "Mazi if Peter Obi win you go come back na office dey for you king maker empowerment program." Others expressed cynicism towards yearly predictions, with prime_city17 stating: "Them don start again…..nah every year them dey talk am."
However, not all reactions were negative. Some users engaged in lighthearted banter, while a few expressed a steadfast belief in the nation's potential regardless of leadership, indicating the complex and multifaceted nature of the diaspora's relationship with home.
This clash highlights the ongoing tension between hopeful prophecies for national renewal and the lived realities that drive emigration. As 2026 approaches, Pastor Adeboye's 'reverse japa' prediction will undoubtedly remain a hot-button issue, serving as a barometer for the nation's progress in the eyes of its citizens at home and abroad.
