President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Bishop David Oyedepo, founder of the Living Faith Church Worldwide (Winners Chapel), on his 71st birthday, describing him as a towering figure of spiritual, educational, and philanthropic influence in Nigeria, Africa, and beyond.
In a statement issued on Friday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the president praised Oyedepo’s discipline, diligence and vision since establishing Living Faith Church in 1981, noting that his leadership has translated into a global Christian ministry with profound social impact.
Tinubu highlighted Oyedepo’s investments in education, citing the Kingdom Heritage Schools, Faith Academy, and the universities Covenant and Landmark, which, he said, continue to raise standards and compete favourably with world-class institutions.
“You have built one of Africa’s most impactful Christian ministries from humble beginnings. Your steadfastness in the Word of Faith ministry is exemplary, birthing many ministries with resonating impact on key sectors of the economy.
“Your contributions to infrastructure, health, education, and nation-building through preaching, teaching, and service remain deeply appreciated by our government. At a time when our nation continues to draw strength from moral and spiritual leaders, you have remained a pacesetter and symbol of a servant leader for many to emulate,” Tinubu said.
Bishop Oyedepo, widely regarded as one of Africa’s most influential Christian leaders, was born on September 27, 1954, in Osogbo, Osun State, into a mixed-faith family. His father was a Muslim healer and his mother a member of the Aladura movement, but he was raised by his Anglican grandmother, who nurtured him in Christian values.
