“What was Pa Elton Prophecy about Nigeria”

“What was Pa Elton Prophecy about Nigeria”

From History

by Neil McBride

“Nigeria and Nigerians will be known all over the world for corruption. Your name – Nigeria will stink for corruption but after a while, a new phase will come – a phase of righteousness. People from the nations of the earth will hold a Nigerian and say, ‘We want to follow you to your nation to go and learn righteousness.” (PA Elton)

 “Africa is like a gun pointed down. Its turret and muzzle is South Africa. Its trigger is Nigeria. The days would come when Apartheid (then at its peak in South Africa) will be removed from South Africa. In those days, he said the Gun of Africa would begin to fire for God’s purpose.” (PA Elton)

Pa Sydney Granville Elton: Prophet of Nigeria’s Destiny

In the mid-20th century, a British missionary named Pa Sydney Granville Elton emerged as a pivotal figure in shaping Nigeria’s spiritual destiny. Born in England in 1907, Elton was raised in a devout Christian household and began his missionary journey at a young age. He left his homeland after receiving a divine call to serve in Africa. He arrived in Nigeria in 1937, when the nation was still under British colonial rule, and the spiritual atmosphere was changing significantly.

Settling in the town of Ilesa in present-day Osun State, Pa Elton immersed himself in local culture and quickly became known for his humility, simplicity, and deep spiritual insight. Unlike many Western missionaries of his time, Elton was not focused on building a Western-style institution or imposing foreign religious practices. Instead, he sought to raise indigenous leaders who could carry the Gospel forward in a way that was deeply rooted in the Nigerian context. He worked closely with local churches and revival movements, building relationships and mentoring countless young believers, many of whom would become some of Nigeria’s most influential Christian leaders and beyond.

Over more than five decades, Pa Elton’s ministry extended across various denominations and communities. His home in Ilesa became a prayer, teaching, and prophetic guidance hub. He was widely respected for his scriptural knowledge and ability to discern the times and speak boldly about God’s purposes for individuals and nations. Among his many contributions was a strong emphasis on discipleship, holiness, and the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit—messages that resonated deeply during the political transition and spiritual hunger in Nigeria.

Pa Elton’s enduring legacy lies not only in the churches and ministries he helped establish but also in the prophetic words he delivered, particularly concerning the destiny of Nigeria. He spoke with clarity and conviction about the future of the nation, warning of a season when Nigeria would become globally associated with corruption and moral decay. Yet, in the same breath, he declared a redemptive future, foretelling a time when Nigeria would rise as a spiritual beacon, known not for its failures but for its righteousness and sought after by other nations for spiritual guidance.

This profound prophecy has become a cornerstone of hope for many Christians in Nigeria, especially amid national challenges. Today, more than a century after his birth, Pa Elton is remembered as a missionary, prophet, teacher, and father of faith in Nigeria. His life’s work continues to influence church leaders, inspire revival, and guide the spiritual narrative of a nation that still holds tightly to the vision he proclaimed decades ago.

A Life of Sacrifice and Service

Pa Elton’s journey to Nigeria was divinely orchestrated, marked by an unmistakable sense of calling that shaped the course of his life and, ultimately, the spiritual trajectory of an entire nation. From a young age, he felt a deep spiritual burden for the African continent. Through personal revelations and confirmations, he became convinced that God specifically called him to Nigeria. Obedient to that call, he left the comfort and familiarity of England in 1937 and embarked on what would become a lifelong mission.

Upon his arrival, Elton settled in Ilesa, a modest town in present-day Osun State, southwestern Nigeria. Unlike many foreign missionaries of the colonial era who remained isolated from local communities, Pa Elton immersed himself deeply in the local culture and religious environment. He embraced the Yoruba language, customs, and way of life, believing that true ministry could only be effective if rooted in understanding and mutual respect. His lifestyle of simplicity, humility, and authenticity quickly earned him the trust and admiration of the people.

Elton’s arrival in Nigeria coincided with a significant spiritual awakening, particularly in the southwestern region. He became closely associated with Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola, a key figure in Nigeria’s indigenous Christian revival movement and the first General Evangelist of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC). Their friendship and spiritual collaboration marked a turning point in Nigeria’s religious history. Pa Elton recognized the hand of God upon Babalola and supported his ministry, seeing in him a true vessel of revival and divine power. Together, they helped ignite a powerful wave of spiritual renewal that swept through Yoruba land and beyond.

In addition to his partnership with Babalola, Pa Elton took on the critical role of mentoring the next generation of Christian leaders in Nigeria. He believed in raising indigenous voices who could preach the Gospel, plant churches, and provide leadership nationwide. Among the many who came under his influence were individuals who would later become household names in the global Pentecostal and Charismatic movements.

One of these was Archbishop Benson Idahosa, often called the father of Pentecostalism in Nigeria. Elton recognized his zeal and potential and provided guidance that helped shape Idahosa’s bold, miracle-driven ministry, eventually gaining international acclaim. Another was Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, who would become the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), one of the largest and fastest-growing churches in the world. Pa Elton’s teachings on holiness, spiritual discipline, and the Holy Spirit had a lasting impact on Adeboye’s theology and leadership style.

Elton also mentored Bishop David Oyedepo, founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide (Winners’ Chapel). Under Pa Elton’s influence, Oyedepo embraced a vision of faith, prosperity, and national transformation that would later define his ministry and its global outreach. Each of these leaders, in different ways, acknowledged Pa Elton’s role in shaping their spiritual foundations and credited him as a father figure in the Nigerian faith movement.

Through his mentorship, teaching, and prophetic ministry, Pa Elton planted seeds that would continue to bear fruit long after his passing. His ability to identify and nurture leadership potential was one of his greatest gifts, and the men and women he disciplined have gone on to lead millions in worship, evangelism, and social transformation. His legacy, therefore, is not confined to a single church or denomination; it lives on in the countless ministries, churches, and spiritual movements that trace their roots to his humble, Spirit-led work in Nigeria.

In 1986, Pa Sydney Granville Elton delivered a prophetic message that has since become one of the most cited and significant statements about Nigeria’s future, capturing the nation’s potential for transformation. Standing as a testament to his spiritual discernment and deep understanding of both the country and its destiny, he boldly declared:

“Nigeria and Nigerians will be known all over the world for corruption. Your name—Nigeria—will stink for corruption, but a new phase of righteousness will come after a while. People from the nations of the earth will hold to a Nigerian and say, ‘We want to follow you to your nation to go and learn righteousness.'”

These words, spoken by Pa Elton nearly four decades ago, have continued to resonate with Nigerians and people worldwide. The nation was deeply embroiled in political instability, economic challenges, and rampant corruption at the time. Pa Elton’s prophecy was a sobering acknowledgement of the country’s grim realities and a hopeful vision for its future. It suggested that while corruption might define Nigeria’s current global image, a transformation was on the horizon, redefining its role on the world stage.

The prophecy highlighted two distinct and critical phases in Nigeria’s journey:

1. The Era of Corruption:

Pa Elton’s first prophetic statement addressed Nigeria’s widespread reputation for corruption. In the 1980s, the country was deeply entrenched in political and economic scandals, with corrupt practices commonplace at every level of government, business, and society. The military regimes that dominated the country at the time were often accused of embezzling public funds while many Nigerians struggled with poverty and inequality. Pa Elton’s acknowledgement of this “Era of Corruption” was not just a critique but a recognition of the entrenched challenges the nation was facing, a truth that few would have openly addressed at the time.

These perceptions marred Nigeria’s global image for many years, and corruption became synonymous with the country. Pa Elton’s prophecy foresaw this dark chapter as a phase, a temporary, albeit painful reality, through which the nation would have to pass. It was not a permanent destiny but a condition that would eventually give way to something better. This aspect of the prophecy resonated deeply with Nigerians who had lived through the dysfunction and frustration of a corrupt system, as it offered an insight into the possibility of positive change.

2. The Dawn of Righteousness:

The second part of Pa Elton’s prophecy painted a far more hopeful and transformative future for Nigeria. He foretold that a new phase would emerge after the dark days of corruption, a “phase of righteousness.” In this phase, Nigeria would be known not for its corruption but for its integrity, ethical leadership, and moral clarity. The prophecy envisioned a time when Nigeria, once regarded for its flaws, would become a beacon of righteousness, admired by the world for its transformation.

Pa Elton predicted that people from other nations would flock to Nigeria, seeking to learn the ways of righteousness. This bold and inspiring vision seemed impossible in the context of 1980s Nigeria but has continued to fuel hope and anticipation for many. He saw Nigeria rising to become an example to the world, not in economic power or military might, but in moral authority. It would become a model of ethical governance, social justice, and spiritual leadership.

A Vision That Continues to Unfold

Today, many Nigerians and global observers believe that this vision of transformation is beginning to unfold, albeit gradually. While the journey is far from complete, a growing movement within the country advocates for righteousness, transparency, and integrity. Over the past few decades, Nigeria has witnessed a shift in its political and spiritual atmosphere, with increasing calls for accountable leadership, justice, and good governance.

The rise of social movements, particularly among the younger generation, indicates a new wave of activism that champions integrity over corruption. Civil society organizations, grassroots campaigns, and reform-minded individuals within government have begun to challenge the status quo, pushing for better governance systems and rejecting the corruption that once plagued the nation. Furthermore, global initiatives focused on anti-corruption have garnered Nigeria’s international support, positioning the country as a critical player in the worldwide fight for good governance.

The Church in Nigeria, once a small and marginalized community, has grown exponentially in influence, particularly the Pentecostal movement. Many Nigerian pastors and leaders are now at the forefront of efforts to promote righteous living, moral leadership, and social justice. From preaching integrity in both spiritual and political spheres to engaging in charitable works that uplift the poor, Nigerian church leaders have become important voices in the country’s moral renewal.

At the same time, Nigeria has seen increasing recognition on the global stage, not just for its economic potential but for the contributions it makes in various areas, from cultural influence (such as the worldwide success of Nollywood) to the rise of Nigerian leaders and entrepreneurs gaining prominence around the world. While Nigeria still faces significant challenges, many point to the growing efforts toward reform and social justice as evidence that the nation is beginning to fulfil the prophecy that Pa Elton delivered decades ago.

In conclusion, Pa Elton’s prophecy of Nigeria’s transformation from an era of corruption to righteousness remains one of the most compelling and hopeful predictions about the nation’s future. While Nigeria still grapples with many of the issues Pa Elton foresaw, there is an unmistakable shift toward a future of integrity, moral leadership, and global respect. His words inspire and challenge Nigerians to work toward fulfilling this vision, a future where Nigeria can be a beacon of righteousness, admired and followed by the world.

A Legacy of Discipleship and Church Planting

Pa Sydney Granville Elton’s approach to ministry was grounded in a deep commitment to discipleship and church planting, which formed the cornerstone of his missionary work in Nigeria. From the beginning of his time in Nigeria, he understood that the growth of the Church in the country depended not just on his efforts but on raising indigenous leaders who could carry the Gospel forward in a sustainable and culturally relevant way. His ministry was centred on equipping local believers with the knowledge, skills, and spiritual foundation necessary to lead and plant churches that would thrive independently.

One of Pa Elton’s greatest contributions was mentoring numerous young Nigerian leaders. He didn’t just preach to them; he lived among them, taught them, and empowered them to assume leadership roles in their communities. His holistic approach focused on evangelism and teaching sound doctrine, building strong moral character, and cultivating a sense of responsibility toward their spiritual and social environments. Pa Elton’s discipleship model emphasized that true leadership wasn’t about titles or recognition but about serving others and upholding the integrity of the Christian faith.

Many of the individuals he mentored went on to establish their ministries and churches, impacting Nigeria’s religious landscape in profound ways. Some of these leaders later became prominent figures in Nigeria’s Pentecostal and Charismatic movements, expanding Pa Elton’s influence far beyond his immediate ministry. His philosophy of raising indigenous leaders ensured that the churches he planted were self-sustaining and culturally relevant. He believed that the Church in Nigeria should not simply be an import of Western Christianity but should reflect the Nigerian people’s unique cultural and societal realities. By prioritizing local leadership, Pa Elton’s churches could adapt to Nigeria’s diverse ethnic, artistic, and spiritual contexts, ensuring that they could meet the needs of their communities in meaningful and practical ways.

However, Pa Elton’s emphasis on decentralizing leadership and encouraging young leaders to establish independent churches has not been without controversy. Some critics argue that this approach, while beneficial in many respects, led to fragmentation within the Nigerian Church. As more and more independent ministries and churches were established, some began to diverge in their doctrines and practices. The lack of a centralized governing body or structure created challenges in maintaining doctrinal consistency across many churches that emerged from Pa Elton’s influence. In some instances, this led to doctrinal inconsistencies, with various churches interpreting scripture in ways that were sometimes at odds with the foundational teachings Pa Elton had instilled. Additionally, some have pointed out that the lack of strong centralized accountability and oversight in these independent churches has contributed to leadership challenges, such as the rise of charismatic leaders without proper checks and balances, which has, at times, led to abusive practices or questionable theological teachings in certain sectors of the Church.

Despite these challenges, Pa Elton’s discipleship and church-planting legacy remain powerful in the Nigerian Church. His influence on Nigerian Christianity cannot be overstated, and the movement he helped nurture has continued to shape the spiritual landscape of Nigeria, with both positive and complex results.

The Fulfillment of the Prophecy

As Nigeria grapples with deep-rooted issues such as corruption, poor governance, and political instability, Pa Elton’s prophecy has remained a beacon of hope for many believers. The words he spoke in 1986, foreseeing a time when Nigeria would transition from an era defined by corruption to one of righteousness, continue to resonate strongly, especially as the nation finds itself at a crossroads. For many, the prophecy represents a vision of redemption, which suggests that the country is not doomed to remain in a state of moral decay but can instead rise to become a model of righteousness and integrity.

The increasing number of Nigerians advocating for righteousness, transparency, and moral leadership is seen by many as the beginning of the transformation that Pa Elton prophesied. Across Nigeria, there is a growing movement of citizens, activists, and religious leaders calling for an end to corruption and demanding reforms that promote justice and accountability in governance. More Nigerians, particularly the younger generation, are becoming increasingly vocal about the need for ethical leadership, fair governance, and eradicating corrupt practices that have long hindered the country’s development. This shift in public consciousness suggests that the nation may enter the “Dawn of Righteousness” phase that Pa Elton foresaw. In this period, moral integrity and righteousness are valued above personal gain and corruption.

In addition to these domestic movements, there is a rising global recognition of Nigeria’s potential for transformation. Nigerian leaders are increasingly recognized worldwide for their contributions in various fields, from business and technology to social justice and humanitarian efforts. Nigerian entrepreneurs, particularly in sectors such as technology and innovation, are beginning to gain international acclaim, presenting the country in a new light. The increasing global visibility of these leaders—known for their achievements and efforts to promote ethical business practices and social responsibility, aligns with Pa Elton’s prophecy that Nigerians would one day be sought after to teach the world about righteousness.

Furthermore, initiatives focused on integrity and justice in the public and private sectors increasingly take root in Nigeria. Organizations dedicated to combating corruption, improving education, and promoting good governance are gaining momentum. The growing number of young people involved in these causes shows a nation in transition, gradually moving toward fulfilling Pa Elton’s prophecy of a righteous Nigeria.

While challenges remain, particularly in political leadership, economic inequality, and systemic corruption, the increasing efforts to address these issues and the growing moral awareness among the population are signs that Nigeria is indeed moving toward fulfilling Pa Elton’s prophecy. Many Nigerians continue to hold onto the hope that the vision Pa Elton shared is not just a distant dream but a reality unfolding before their eyes, one step at a time, one act of integrity at a time.

In conclusion, Pa Elton’s legacy as a mentor, church planter, and prophet is one of deep impact and lasting influence. While his approach to church planting and discipleship has shaped the Nigerian Church positively and complexly, his prophecy about Nigeria’s transformation continues to offer hope for a brighter future. As the nation navigates its challenges, many believe Pa Elton’s vision of a righteous Nigeria is becoming increasingly tangible, marked by a growing commitment to moral leadership, transparency, and social justice.

“What was Pa Elton Prophecy about Nigeria”

DTA – Neil McBride

(CEO and founder of Downtown Angels)