CAN, Tinubu, Gowon, Obasanjo, Jonathan, Obi, others felicitate Oyedepo at 70

Highlight Celebrant’s Exceptional Qualities, Achievements

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, former presidents Olusegun Obasanjo, Goodluck Jonathan and General Overseer of the Redeemed Church of God, Enoch Adeboye, among others, on Friday, described the Founder of the Living Faith Church, also known as Winners Chapel, Bishop David Oyedepo, as an outstanding, visionary leader.

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) also felicitated Oyedepo, saying his emphasis on the Word of God as a foundation for living has become even more relevant to Nigerians.

They spoke on the occasion of Oyedepo’s 70th birthday, which was celebrated at the Living Faith Church’s headquarters in Ota, Ogun State.

Among those present at the event were Obasanjo, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos and his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat; Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun; Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State; former Ogun State Governor, Gbenga Daniel; Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; former Minister of Information, Prof. Jerry Gana; President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Bishop Wale Oke, and many Christian leaders, traditional rulers and gospel musicians in the country.

They eulogised Oyedepo’s commitment to guiding and mentoring others, thereby impacting lives positively.

Specifically, Tinubu described Oyedepo as a beacon of hope, faith and inspiration to countless individuals both within and beyond the shores of the country.

He noted that the celebrant’s steadfast commitment to spreading the gospel, uplifting communities and nurturing leaders through his ministry has left an indelible mark on the spiritual, social and educational landscape of Nigeria and the world.

“For over four decades, his ministry has transformed lives through impactful teachings, soul-winning crusades and unwavering service to humanity. His pioneering role in the establishment of the Living Faith Church Worldwide, alongside the creation of Covenant and Landmark Universities, are profound testaments to his visionary leadership and dedication to the betterment of the society,” he said.

On his part, Gowon noted that Oyedepo has been a worthy partner of Nigeria Prays, a prayer initiative which was founded to intercede for Nigeria to ensure the “ship of the State would not flounder, and the unity of the people would be strengthened.”

Obasanjo, in his tribute, described Oyedepo as an icon of the Christian faith, known both in Nigeria and beyond as an outstanding, dutiful and courageous preacher.

“You brought a heavy dose of intellectual insight into your sermons which attracted a lot of academics and non-Living Faith Church members,” he noted.

Also, Adeboye stated that he has known Oyedepo for more than four decades, adding that he has invested his life into the Kingdom of God.

“I will be saying the obvious if I say he is a true child of God, hardworking, kind hearted, peaceful, gentle, generous and passionately in love with Jesus Christ.

“One thing is absolutely sure about him, whether you like him or not, you cannot ignore him. Bishop is a good leader, a great producer of disciples, a man thoroughly focused on heaven,” he said.

Oke described Oyedepo as an accomplished Pentecostal cum Charismatic leader whose ministry is reaching the world effectively for Christ.

Similarly, Jonathan, Atiku, Sanwo-Olu, Abiodun and Oborevwori noted that Oyedepo’s belief in the power of faith and significance of education has reshaped the landscape of many lives, offering hope where there was despair and opportunities where none existed.

Congratulating Oyedepo on his 70th birthday, President of the CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, said his life is a shining example of the power of faith in action.

He noted that Oyedepo’s unwavering commitment to the gospel and his visionary leadership have inspired millions to seek a deeper relationship with God, adding that through his ministry, he has not only transformed lives spiritually but has also contributed significantly to educational development, economic empowerment and social upliftment.

In a statement yesterday in Abuja, Okoh noted that in these challenging times, marked by socio-economic instability and increasing insecurity, Oyedepo’s teachings on faith, prosperity and resilience have provided hope and direction for many.

The CAN president observed that Oyedepo’s steadfastness in preaching the message of love, unity and faith reinforces the essential role of the church in addressing the pressing issues facing the nation.

He said: “Bishop Oyedepo’s emphasis on the Word of God as a foundation for living has become even more relevant, urging us to stand firm in our beliefs and to be agents of change in our communities. As we reflect on the current realities of our society, we are reminded that the church must remain a beacon of hope, promoting peace and reconciliation among diverse communities.

“We celebrate not only his achievements but also his unwavering dedication to the Great Commission, encouraging believers to spread the message of Christ’s love.”

As we honour Bishop Oyedepo today, we acknowledge his profound impact on the Christian community in Nigeria and beyond.  As he enters this new decade, we pray that God will bless him abundantly and that his ministry will continue to flourish, bringing light to those in darkness and hope to the hopeless.

“Once again, congratulations to Bishop David Oyedepo on this significant milestone. On behalf of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), I pray that God continues to grant him strength, wisdom and grace in many years ahead. May the Lord bless you richly.”

The presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 elections, Mr. Peter Obi, in his congratulatory message shared on his X handle, described Oyedepo as an exceptional servant in God’s vineyard.

Obi praised Oyedepo for his unwavering dedication to faith and ministry.

Obi stated: “You remain a remarkable figure in faith, a dedicated servant in God’s vineyard, and a leader who exemplifies the true purpose of God’s creation.”

He highlighted the tremendous impact of Oyedepo’s ministry, noting that countless lives have been touched, embodying faith, hope and love.”

He also acknowledged Oyedepo’s achievements, including the establishment of Living Faith Church, Covenant University, and Kingdom Heritage Model School, which he referred to as lasting legacies of his pursuit of excellence.

“Today, we honour your enduring legacy, your compassionate outreach, and your immense contribution to humanity. May God continue to strengthen, guide and bless you in all your endeavors,” Obi added.