Senior Pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, Paul Enenche, has criticised the Afrobeats genre, describing many of its songs as lacking meaningful content and warning that they contribute to negative influences among young people.
The cleric made the remarks during the church’s Mid-year Worship concert, where he called on gospel musicians to produce more youth-focused songs that promote positive values and provide an alternative to what he termed unhealthy secular music.
Speaking to members of his congregation, Enenche announced plans for a special youth programme scheduled for September 25, saying the event would feature gospel artistes, including Prinx Emmanuel, and other music ministers dedicated to reaching young audiences.
According to him, gospel music should go beyond entertainment by offering guidance that helps young people make better life choices and resist harmful influences.
READ ALSO: The Hidden Workforce Keeping Nigeria’s Aircraft Flying
“It is better to have music that is saying something that youth is hearing than the garbage that worldly musicians sing,” Enenche said during his address.
He alleged that many Afrobeats performers glorify drug use and other behaviours capable of leading youths astray, arguing that such messages have become increasingly influential among younger listeners.
“Most of those Afrobeats are just saying rubbish. Smoking Indian hemp while they are singing and influencing the youths in negative ways,” he said.
The pastor maintained that the church must respond by promoting music with uplifting and educational messages capable of shaping character and strengthening moral values.
Enenche explained that exposing young people to spiritually enriching music would help them avoid destructive lifestyles and build healthier relationships.
He expressed confidence that contemporary gospel music could become a stronger discipleship tool if musicians deliberately focused on lyrics that address everyday challenges faced by youths.
According to him, such songs should teach listeners how to avoid negative peer pressure, make sound decisions, and remain committed to positive values.
The comments are expected to generate debate within Nigeria’s music industry, where Afrobeats has grown into a globally celebrated genre, earning international recognition while also facing criticism from some religious and social commentators over the themes contained in certain songs.
Although several gospel artistes have embraced contemporary sounds to appeal to younger audiences, Enenche insisted that lyrical content should remain the defining feature of music intended to influence society positively.
His remarks add to the long-running conversation about the role of music in shaping culture, morality and the behaviour of young Nigerians.

