When eminent Nigerians, church leaders poured encomiums on Oyedepo at 70

It was a gathering of prominent Nigerians, church leaders, and dignitaries from all walks of life that converged to honour the presiding Bishop of the Living Faith Church, (aka Winners Chapel), Bishop David Oyedepo, at his 70th birthday anniversary.

The event not only celebrated the cleric joining the septuagenarians’ class but also highlighted his significant contributions to Christianity and impact on countless lives through his ministry and philanthropic efforts.

The event took place at the church’s headquarters in Ota, Ogun State last Friday. It featured testimonials, music performances by veteran gospel musician Pastor Joseph Adelakun (aka Baba Ayewa), and a spotlight on the cleric’s legacy and ongoing efforts to empower individuals and promote spiritual growth.

Some of the dignitaries that graced the event include former President Olusegun Obasanjo; Pastor E. A. Adeboye, his wife Pastor (Mrs) Fola Adeboye; Archbishop Margaret Idahosa; Bishop Mike Okonkwo; Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo; Reverend Sam Aboyeji; Pastors David and Peace Ibiyeomie; Pastors Paul and Becky Enenche; Bishop FEB Idahosa; Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo; Pastor Korede Komaiya, Pastor Yemi Davids; Pastor Sam Olubiyo; Pastor Shola Osunmakinde; Pastor Victor Abugo; Pastor Sam Adeyemi; Pastor Jerry Eze, and Pastor Godman Akinlabi, among others.

Ogun State governor, Dapo Abiodun; Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State; Delta governor, Sheriff Oborevwori; Senator Gbenga Daniel; Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, and Professor Jerry Gana, among others, honoured Oyedepo with their presence.

Adeboye, who was also the guest preacher at the birthday thanksgiving service, saluted Oyedepo’s dedication to the ministry, their impact on countless lives, and his role in expanding God’s Kingdom.

He also prayed for God’s continued grace and strength upon Oyedepo and his entire family as he entered a new decade of service.

President Bola Tinubu also commended Oyedepo’s legacy in grooming leaders and his church’s significant contributions to education, health, and entrepreneurship.

He noted Oyedepo and his church’s remarkable impact on millions through educational and health institutions, as well as his entrepreneurial spirit, which reawakened a new movement for growth in Nigeria, Africa, and beyond.

Obasanjo lauded Oyedepo’s authenticity, saying, “Bishop Oyedepo, I appreciate you because you are plain, and God appreciates you because you are close to Him. Today, you are joining the club of septuagenarians, you are welcome.”

As Oyedepo turns 70, his influence extends far beyond the pulpit. He is celebrated as a prominent preacher, entrepreneur, and educator, having founded Covenant University and Landmark University.

Governor Abiodun described Oyedepo as a religious leader whose teachings have brought millions closer to God and fostered a spirit of empowerment and resilience.

In her tribute, the wife of the late Bishop Benson Idahosa, Archbishop Margaret Idahosa, appreciated Oyedepo for his unwavering support over the years.

“Since my husband’s passing 26 years ago, Bishop Oyedepo has stood by me, my children, and our ministry. Your spiritual lineage is vast, and my children are among those you’ve guided with the word of faith,” she said.

In his remarks, Oyedepo said, “I don’t have a story to tell, but the story of the power of Christ who saved my soul and transformed my life forever. I am simply a microphone with the voice of the Almighty working behind it. I am not an achiever as you may think, but I am a blessed partaker of the manifold of the grace of God. I am not an icon as people may think, but a representative of the icon of icons, Jesus Christ, who is my saviour. I appreciate all of you who have come to celebrate God in my life. Thank you all.”

Seyi Sokoya