The prominent cleric urged married people to list only their spouses on official workplace documents.
Pastor Sarah Omakwu advised married couples on July 23, 2026, to stop naming their parents or siblings as next of kin. The cleric stressed that spouses and children must hold this vital title on all official workplace documents to protect immediate family interests.
On July 22, 2026, Pastor Sarah Omakwu warned married couples against naming extended family members as next of kin. The cleric stated that a spouse and children must always take total priority.
Omakwu shared this firm advice during a recent sermon in Abuja. She noted that brothers or parents will always favour their own households first. This dynamic often leaves a deceased person’s actual children without proper care.
Protecting immediate family
The minister addressed men directly regarding their vital family duties. She explained why trusting a sibling with wealth can backfire badly.
”Men, you don’t put next of kin as your brother or your father, because your brother is not going to take care of your children.” Omakwu declared.
She noted that a brother will always secure his own kids first. Omakwu insisted that a man must protect his immediate household above all others. This echoes recent teachings that a woman earning more can strain a marriage if mismanaged.
”Your people are your wife and your children first.” she added.
”They are your next of kin, not your mother, not your father, not your brother.” the minister stressed.
Workplace document rules
Omakwu then shifted her focus to married women in the church. She told wives to apply the exact same logic to their husbands.
”The same thing with your wife. Wife, your husband is the next of kin, and not your sister or your family.” Omakwu instructed.
The pastor also warned couples against naming joint next of kin. She cited major organizations like the Central Bank of Nigeria as prime examples. Other leaders tackle complex family matters similarly, as one cleric claimed all widows have spirit husbands in a recent church service.
”Don’t put two people’s names on the thing and put your brother and your wife in NNPC or CBN.” she advised.
”Put only your wife’s name.” the pastor directed.
”That is the will of God.” Omakwu stated.
”Any other thing is outside the mind of God.” she concluded.
