The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Area 12, Province 130, Ilamoshe, Okeafa, Isolo area of Lagos State, on Sunday, organised a special community fair tagged ‘Jesus Market’, where goods were sold at highly subsidised rates.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the fair, which was held at the church premises, brought together members of the church and residents of the community, who bought food and household items at giveaway prices.
Pastor Bisi Folahan, in charge of RCCG Area 12, said the initiative was part of the church’s Christian Social Responsibility to give back to society.
‘We are given a mandate to behave like Christ by doing good, feeding the hungry, and helping people in difficult times.
‘At this Jesus Market, people bought items for little or no cost. For example, yam that normally costs about N4,000 in the market was sold for N1,000. Some items were also given out free’, he said.
According to him, companies such as Money Point, Wema Bank, and Kellogg’s partnered with the church to support the programme by providing products and gifts.
He added that free point-of-sale machines were distributed to some traders.
Folahan said the fair would now be held twice a year, with the next edition scheduled for December, to enable families to shop at lower prices during Christmas.
‘We will make the next edition bigger with more space, better security, and more partners so that more people can benefit’, he added.
Mrs Mercy Olowoporku, Head of the Welfare Department, noted that the market was designed to sell items at half the price or less.
‘For example, an item that costs N3,000 in the open market was sold here for N500. People are very happy, and many testified that this will encourage them to appreciate both the church and God more’, she said.
Another welfare team member, Mrs Faith Okoduwa-Ilembiluan, said food items such as rice, beans, garri, tomatoes, pepper, soap, and detergents were sold at low prices.
‘In the market, a half-paint measure of rice costs N3,500, but we sold it for N2,000.
‘The aim is not profit but to help the community. The project was funded from the welfare contributions of members and support from the church’,she said.
Some buyers also expressed joy at the initiative.
Chief Frank Onyekachi, a community member, said he bought several items at a low cost.
‘How I wish other churches would do this. It will not only help people but also bring them closer to God’, he said.
Another buyer, Miss Grace Ane, described the fair as a welcome idea in view of the present high cost of living.
‘With the right partners and funds, this initiative can be sustained. It is a good way of helping people live better despite inflation’, she said.
The organisers assured that subsequent editions of the Jesus Market would be expanded to accommodate more residents and corporate partners.
