By Olayinka Latona

Gospel music holds the power to heal, restore, and transform Nigeria, according to the Senior Pastor of Freedom Life International Christian Center, Richard Tochukwu.

The cleric, who is also a gospel singer, described the genre as a spiritual tool for national rejuvenation, emphasising that divinely inspired music can bring peace, comfort, and positive change to the nation’s spiritual and socio-political landscape.

Pastor Tochukwu spoke with journalists about his new worship single, “I Want To Pray,” a prayerful song intended to stir believers and encourage consistent fellowship with God. The track was produced by Audio5.

He described the song as a heartfelt declaration of hope and perseverance, inspired by the biblical verse Luke 18:1: “Men ought always to pray and not to faint.”

Speaking on the inspiration behind his music, the cleric, a spiritual son of Pastor Paul Enenche, said his songs are primarily drawn from the Word of God.

“Many times, after studying or preaching from Scripture, a song will flow from that passage. Sometimes it comes during meditation or prayer. But the major source is Scripture. While reading or preaching, a verse will inspire a melody and lyrics,” he said.

Reflecting on his journey into music ministry, Pastor Tochukwu said he began as a drummer who also sang before discovering a deeper calling.

“I was a drummer, and I also sang. When I started ministry, songs began to flow, though I did not initially pay much attention to them. I thought it was just a gift. But as time went on, the Lord told me that these songs could also minister to people. You do not minister only through preaching; you can minister through songs as well.

“It is not just passion; it is divine instruction. The Lord told me that I could also preach His Word through songs. So most of our songs express God’s Word in different dimensions. We preach the raw Word of God, and our songs carry the same message.

“The Lord made me understand that music is another channel through which His Word can be preached. Every song we release is backed by Scripture. That is how intentional and powerful it is,” he said.

Pastor Tochukwu serves in Lagos, combining pastoral ministry with music. The video and audio of “I Want To Pray” are now available on major digital platforms.