Obasanjo, Oborevwori laud Pastor Oritsejafor as global icon of faith, service

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo and the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, have lauded Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, founder of the Word of Life Bible Church (WLBC), describing him as a “global icon of faith and humanitarian service.”

The tributes were delivered on Monday at the International Gospel Centre, Warri, during a grand ceremony marking the WLBC’s 38th Jubilee Word Festival and the 80th birthday of its founder, Pastor Oritsejafor, who is also a former President of both the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN).

Addressing the congregation, Chief Obasanjo extolled Pastor Oritsejafor as a true “man of God” whose life exemplifies divine purpose and service.

“For him and for me, every day is a day of celebration,” Obasanjo said. “God has given you the opportunity to subdue, replenish, and multiply.

“We thank God for what He has enabled you to accomplish, and for the impact you have made in your community, in Delta State, across the nation, and around the world.

“To everyone gathered here today, serve God and humanity to the glory of God,” the former President urged.

Governor Oborevwori, represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, FCA, described Pastor Oritsejafor as a “father in the faith” and a “towering pillar of spiritual leadership.”

“Today, we gather in joy and thanksgiving to celebrate the life of a man whose influence spans generations.

“We honour you not merely for the years you have lived, but for the enduring legacy you continue to build—a legacy of steadfast faith, fearless ministry, and boundless compassion,” the Governor stated.

He particularly commended Pastor Oritsejafor’s courage in public service, noting his commitment to “speaking truth to power, comforting the weary, and lifting the banner of Christ with unwavering conviction.”

“You are a precious gift to the Church, to our dear State, to the nation, and to humanity,” Oborevwori affirmed.

The event drew thousands of worshippers, clergy, and dignitaries who filled the International Gospel Centre to celebrate the dual milestones of the church’s 38 years of ministry and the revered clergyman’s 80th birthday.

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