In the heart of Ibadan, Oyo state, Nigeria, Prophet John Wale Adetoso stands as a unique figure — a spiritual leader and a pioneer in religious tourism.
As the founder of Yahweh Travel and Tours and the General Overseer of Voice of Yahweh Prophetic Ministry, Prophet Adetoso has carved a distinctive path that blends faith with travel, offering pilgrims an experience that goes beyond the ordinary.
The prophet’s journey into religious tourism was inspired by a divine calling.
“I see pilgrimage as part of my calling,” Prophet Adetoso shared in a recent interview with WesternLifeNewsNG, adding “When God asked me to facilitate these journeys, He told me that every trip to Jerusalem should not be just a tour. It should be a journey of spiritual transformation.”
His role as a prophet and a travel facilitator are intertwined, as he emphasizes that these pilgrimages are meant to touch the lives of participants in profound ways.
A Mission Beyond Business
While many might view religious tourism as a business venture, Prophet Adetoso insists that his mission goes far beyond that.
“Though the pilgrimage involves finances, it’s not about business. It’s about spiritual growth and transformation. Balancing the demands of running a travel business with the call of the ministry is no easy task,” he explained.
However he admitted that, “It’s tough at times, but by God’s grace, we manage to make it work.”
Over the years, Prophet Adetoso has encountered several challenges. One of the main difficulties is ensuring that the pilgrimage remains spiritually focused rather than becoming a commercial endeavor. He expressed concern about the increasing commercialization of religious tourism, which could distract from the core mission.
“It’s a delicate balance. Pilgrims must remember that this is a spiritual journey, not just a vacation,” he said.
Another challenge involves managing a diverse group of pilgrims, not all of whom may be born-again Christians.
“Some come for sightseeing, others have different intentions,” Prophet Adetoso noted.
To stem the tide, he has had to implement stringent screening measures to ensure that only those truly committed to the pilgrimage’s spiritual purpose are allowed to join.
“We have agreements with the federal government to screen all pilgrims. If anyone avoids the screening process, we know they may have ulterior motives.”
Ensuring a Spiritually Fulfilling Journey
What sets Yahweh Travel and Tours apart is the commitment to ensuring a spiritually enriching experience for every pilgrim.
“Before we leave, I tell everyone: this is not a sightseeing tour. You are going to work spiritually,” Prophet Adetoso emphasized.
His approach is thorough, with prayer meetings held at every site, during bus rides, and even at the hotel. Every aspect of the journey is carefully planned to ensure both spiritual and physical comfort.
“We make sure they have three square meals a day, excellent accommodations, and the best transportation.
“But the most important thing is the spiritual experience. We organize prayer meetings and make sure that every pilgrim leaves with a stronger connection to their faith,” he added.
Unlike other pilgrimage providers, Prophet Toso’s focus is on making each trip a spiritual orientation.
According to him, “We don’t do jamboree pilgrimages. When you travel with us, be prepared for spiritual transformation.
The prophet’s unique understanding of sacred sites, combined with his prophetic office, allows him to lead pilgrims in powerful prayers and activities tailored to the significance of each location.
A Growing Legacy
Since establishing Yahweh Travel and Tours in 2012, Prophet Toso has been dedicated to facilitating transformative pilgrimages to Jerusalem and Jordan.
“I’ve been traveling to Jerusalem since 2007. This is not just business for me; it’s a calling,” he reflected.
His company has since grown, attracting pilgrims from across Nigeria, with many returning to share their profound experiences.
Family integral role in Prophet Adetoso’s business.
“My wife and son are involved. I can’t do it alone,” he said, highlighting the importance of family support in sustaining the ministry’s work. Together, they have built a business that stands out for its genuine commitment to both faith and service.
Looking to the Future
Despite the economic challenges and shifting travel trends, Prophet Adetoso remains optimistic about the future of religious tourism.
He noted, however, that there is still work to be done in Christian communities to recognize pilgrimage as a mandatory aspect of their faith.
“Unlike Muslims, who are encouraged from a young age to go to Mecca, many Christians don’t see Jerusalem as a necessity,” he observed.
“I pray that this mindset changes, and that more Christians begin to see pilgrimage as an important part of their faith.”
In Ibadan, where the pilgrimage business is growing, Prophet Adetoso’s ministry stands out. “We are different because we provide a spiritual experience, not just a trip,” he said confidently.
His office as a prophet, combined with his deep knowledge of sacred sites, ensures that those who travel with Yahweh Travel and Tours receive not only the physical comforts of a well-organized trip but also a deeply spiritual journey.
As Prophet Adetoso continues to lead pilgrims to Jerusalem and beyond, his mission remains clear: to transform lives through the power of pilgrimage.
“For some people, this may be their first and last trip. I want them to remember it as a life-changing experience—spiritually, socially, and physically,” he said.
For those seeking a pilgrimage that is more than just a journey, Yahweh Travel and Tours offers an unforgettable opportunity to connect with faith and heritage, guided by a prophet with a divine calling.
