Residents of Ogbomoso in Oyo State are feeling a renewed sense of hope following the launch of the Jesus Market initiative by True Worshippers Church, Oke Anu.
The initiative, which began in August 2025, is aimed at easing the burden of rising food prices for people across the five local government areas in the town.
The project, co-founded by Rev. Niyi Adebayo and his family, offers basic food items and household goods at significantly reduced prices—some as much as 45 percent lower than market rates. The elderly, physically challenged, and widows receive their items completely free.
“We started the Jesus Market because we saw how people were struggling just to afford a meal,” said Rev. Adebayo, a philanthropist and senior pastor of the church. “It was time to stop watching and start doing something.”
Operating from the church premises, the Jesus Market quickly became a place of refuge for thousands of people, regardless of tribe or religion. Long queues of residents were seen during every market day, with some expressing gratitude not just for the goods, but also for the sense of care they received.
“I was shocked when I was given food without paying a kobo,” said Mrs. Rukayat Adebayo, a 68-year-old widow. “In this economy, it feels like a miracle.”
The initiative also supports the education of orphans and underprivileged children through scholarship schemes.
According to Rev. Adebayo, education is a long-term solution to poverty. “We believe that giving a child an education is better than just giving handouts,” he said.
The market’s success has not gone unnoticed. It has been featured on state and national news channels, including BCOS and NTA, with many praising its transparency and impact.
Traditional rulers, including the Soun of Ogbomosoland, have also commended the effort. “The Jesus Market has united our people and shown that help can come from within,” said one of the local chiefs.
Importantly, the entire N14 million cost of running the market came from the personal funds of Rev. Adebayo and his family. “There was no government or political money involved,” he clarified. “This is purely about love and service.”
Beyond shopping, the market has become a space for social connection. Residents not only buy food, but also interact, encourage one another, and sometimes even pray together.
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“This is not just a market, it’s a movement,” said Deaconess Funmilayo Adeyemi, a church volunteer. “We’re showing that when people come together with love, great things happen.”
With plans to continue the initiative through December 2025, the church hopes its model will inspire others across Nigeria.
“We pray that more people, churches, mosques, and individuals will start something similar in their communities,” Rev. Adebayo said. “If we wait for the government alone, we may wait too long.”
As economic hardship deepens across the country, the Jesus Market remains a shining example of how compassion and community-driven efforts can bring lasting change.