At a Glance
- Pastor Chris holds an indirect stake in Parallex Bank through his ministry’s investment arm.
- Parallex Bank evolved from microfinance roots into a digital-first commercial institution in Nigeria.
- Christ Embassy’s vast global network supports financial, media, and philanthropic initiatives across regions.
Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, founder of Christ Embassy and one of Africa’s most influential pastors, has quietly widened his footprint in Nigeria’s financial sector. Beyond his global ministry and television network, the pastor holds an indirect shareholding in Parallex Bank, a rising player in Nigeria’s digital banking space.
Through Believers’ LoveWorld (BLW) Nigeria Ltd., the corporate arm of Christ Embassy, Pastor Chris owns 625,225,500 shares in Parallex Bank, amounting to a 9.14 percent stake. Though not controlling, the stake places him among the bank’s key investors and signals a strategic interest in Nigeria’s evolving financial industry.
A ministry that became a global institution
Christ Embassy began in 1987 as a university fellowship before expanding into one of Africa’s largest charismatic movements.
Today, the ministry spans multiple continents, maintains a television network, runs major real estate projects, publishes books, hosts mega-conferences, and manages digital platforms reaching millions.
This ecosystem has enabled Christ Embassy to support ventures that operate independently while serving its large membership base.
From microfinance roots to a digital-focused commercial bank
Parallex Bank began in 2008 as Parallex Microfinance Bank, serving small businesses and low-income earners. After years of growth, it received approval from the Central Bank of Nigeria to transition into a commercial bank.
Parallex formally launched in 2021 as a digital-first institution offering zero-maintenance-fee accounts, automated onboarding, and SME-friendly products. Its ownership structure, blending private investors and ministry-linked holdings, sets it apart in Nigeria’s competitive banking market.
Why a ministry-linked stake makes strategic sense
Christ Embassy operates thousands of branches across Nigeria and international hubs in the UK, US, South Africa, and the UAE. The ministry’s activities, events, conferences, publishing, and media, create significant financial movements and logistical needs.
A commercial bank offers structural benefits: Payment infrastructure for members, Support for SMEs within the network and Digital platforms aligned with the ministry’s tech-driven growth.
The bank’s digital model fits neatly with the ministry’s long-standing emphasis on online evangelism, streaming, and secure digital platforms.
Navigating Nigeria’s new banking environment
Parallex Bank’s growth coincides with Nigeria’s 2024–2026 recapitalisation mandate, which requires banks to raise substantial equity. For a young commercial bank, this environment presents both opportunity and pressure.
Meeting the capital requirement will determine the bank’s long-term viability and ability to compete within Nigeria’s shifting financial landscape.
Philanthropy beyond the pulpit
Pastor Chris also maintains a strong philanthropic presence. Through the Chris Oyakhilome Foundation International (COFI), the ministry funds emergency relief, scholarships, inner-city food drives, youth empowerment and medical outreaches across several countries.
His belief in financial empowerment aligns with Parallex Bank’s SME-oriented focus and community-driven lending.
A broader legacy
Pastor Chris’ position in Parallex Bank represents a larger trend: African megachurches increasingly operate as socio-economic institutions influencing finance, media, technology, and philanthropy.
Parallex Bank’s future will depend on its capital strength, regulatory compliance, digital capabilities, and governance.
For now, Pastor Chris stands at a unique intersection of faith, finance, and influence, shaping discussions within Nigeria’s religious and economic landscape.
