The lead pastor of House on the Rock Church (HOTR), Pastor Paul Adefarasin, has revealed that organising the ongoing Experience 19 concert was eight times costlier than the previous year.
Adefarasin, who disclosed this during a press briefing ahead of the Experience Concert, which started on Friday in Lagos, noted that the surge in the price of organising the annual event was due to the depreciation of the Naira against the US Dollar.
“The Nigerian economy is getting tougher, it takes someone who believes in God to organise this. What we spent last year is now eight times that amount this year because of the naira depreciation,” he stated.
The cleric also expressed gratitude for how far the annual event, which he said started as a vision 19 years ago, has grown, emphasising the place of unity and strength with each passing year.
LEADERSHIP reports that that the annual concert, which holds in Lagos, features award-winning international and local gospel artists and has been highly anticipated over the years.
“For 19 remarkable years, we have gathered—under the open skies of Tafawa Balewa Square and in countless homes across the world—to partake in a divine encounter. THE EXPERIENCE has transcended its beginnings as a local gathering, growing into a global phenomenon that bears witness to the unfailing faithfulness of God.
“Millions join us each year, united in worship, with one purpose: to glorify the name above all names—Jesus Christ, the King of kings. The lights that pierce the night—from raised hands, glowing screens, and illuminated faces at the TBS—are more than fleeting visuals. They epitomise hope, unity, and a shared testament to the transformative power of faith in God. Whether you are here in Lagos or joining from across the oceans, we are one people, with one heart, one voice, and one victorious proclamation: JESUS WINS.
“What began as a vision 19 years ago has evolved into a movement of eternal significance. THE EXPERIENCE is more than an event; it is a sacred moment where worship converges with unity, where borders blur, and the divine speaks.
“Though our themes may differ from year to year, the foundation remains steadfast. Every melody sung, every prayer lifted, every hand raised to heaven announces the enduring truth that it has always been—and will always be—all about Jesus.
“As you reflect on these words, consider the far-reaching impact of this throng—not just for those who are present, but for a world yearning for better nations and a more sincere, hopeful existence.
“THE EXPERIENCE is a celebration of faith’s resilience, a movement that transcends trials to attest to the unshakeable truth that, regardless of the circumstances we endure or the darkness that confronts us, we stand unshaken in the certain knowledge that Jesus, the Light of the world, always wins,” Adefarasin stated.
