29-05-2025
Nigerian app connects spiritual seekers to African priests online
STORY: In Lagos, Nigeria, an app fusing tradition and technology hopes to redefine spiritual practises.
Thirty-two-year-old Olawole Olakunle, an Ifa priest, has founded the web-based platform,
He undertakes centuries-old rituals from his desk, streaming his consultation to his client online.
It connects users with verified spiritual practitioners in Africa.
"Some people don't know how to find a priest, some people don't know what it looks like relating with a priest, and for that reason we decided to create a platform where genuine users will meet with genuine priests."
Users purchase virtual currency to engage with priests, who set their own rates for sessions.
The app ensures transparency and ethical practises through an embedded red flag scanner which aims to safeguard from unethical interactions.
Olakunle says his platform guarantees users receive personalized rituals, complete with video verification.
This user, who wishes to remain anonymous, found the platform during a tough period in his life.
He says he found spiritual guidance and a renewed sense of purpose.
"I realized that some of them just want me to be part of their congregation, they don't really want to solve my problem. I have a problem, I don't want to be under anybody, I just want to solve my problem and create a relationship. Some of them don't even know what they are doing, and some they know what they are doing, they understand it but we don't have a chemistry, they are doing the right thing for me but I am not seeing the result.'
The platform also has podcasts which Olakunle hopes will dispel stereotypes and understanding of spiritual practices.
He hopes it's a catalyst for genuine spiritual guidance via technology.
