As a Nigerian preacher, I have encountered various stereotypes in my itinerant ministry across different nations.

The truth is that while ‘popular and famous’ ministers are highly esteemed worldwide, younger ministers often face resistance due to the reputation of Nigerians in that country or the actions of ministers who preceded them.

While preaching in South Africa with my father, a minister bluntly told us that he had initially hesitated to attend the meeting because we were Nigerians. However, when he did come, he brought a notebook to record any scriptural errors or misinterpretations—only to find none.

That being said, some of my closest friends today are from different nations, including South Africa, Ghana, and Kenya.

A few years ago, a friend in Kenya entrusted me with his card details for a purchase without a second thought. This same friend has also recommended me to preach in several nations.

In light of the above, here are my wisdom tips:

1.⁠ ⁠You cannot single-handedly change people’s perceptions of Nigeria and Nigerians (a nation of over 250 million people). However, you can influence how they perceive YOU through your actions and interactions.

2.⁠ ⁠Ensure you are INVITED. I never travel to a country seeking preaching opportunities. If you are not invited, SIT DOWN at home honorably.

3.⁠ ⁠Apply ministerial ethics. Whatever Bishop Oyedepo or Pastor Adeboye has achieved is their own calling, not yours. Do not enter a nation preaching as if you built Canaanland. Nigerians do not have a monopoly on grace—God gives grace and enablement to all.

4.⁠ ⁠If you are invited, finish your meeting and return home. Do not pressure your host to arrange extra meetings just to cover your ticket expenses. You are a minister, not a businessman.

5.⁠ ⁠Ensure your documentation is correct. Travel with the right visa type and conduct proper research.

6.⁠ ⁠Do not be greedy for financial gain. Accept whatever honorarium is given to you and trust God for provision. Do not resort to emergency fundraising just because their currency is stronger than the Naira.

7.⁠ ⁠Apply ministerial ethics and maintain decorum. Do not engage in unnecessary personal conversations with the ladies or gentlemen assigned to you as protocol officers. Be respectful.

8.⁠ ⁠Even if they say you can order anything, do not order everything.

9.⁠ ⁠A good name is more valuable than riches. Maintain your good name.

Over the past decade, I have preached in more than 20 countries around the world. Despite holding a Nigerian passport, I can assure you that God has been gracious, and more nations are opening up