Former President of Nigeria, Olusegun Obasanjo, heightened the birthday celebration of Bishop David Oyedepo, founder of the Living Faith Church, with a powerful goodwill message at the service held on September 27, 2024.
The event, which marked Oyedepo’s 70th birthday, attracted a distinguished audience from across Nigeria, all gathered to celebrate the spiritual leader’s significant contributions to both the church and society.
Speaking from the church podium, Obasanjo praised the profound impact Oyedepo has had on Nigeria and the world.
Reflecting on his journey, the former president remarked, “Oyedepo’s achievements are a testament to a deep relationship with God. I moved to Ota in 1979, and he came ten years later, but today, he has placed Ota not just on the map of Africa but on the map of the world.”
He continued, “Oyedepo’s humility is infectious, and his closeness to God is evident. That’s why I call him Junior Pastor, and I call Pastor E.A. Adeboye Senior Pastor,” his words bringing smiles and laughter to the congregation.
Obasanjo went on to pray for Oyedepo’s continued success, saying, “God will keep expanding your influence. Welcome to the septuagenarian club. When you reach the octogenarian club, I will be here to celebrate with you, and when you reach the upper club, I may not be here, but God will be with you.”
His light-hearted comment drew more laughter from the crowd.
Reflecting on Oyedepo’s groundbreaking leadership, Obasanjo lauded the construction of the Faith Tabernacle in one year as a “miracle” and described the ongoing construction of The Ark as an “unthinkable engineering marvel.”
The celebration drew an array of prominent religious and political figures.
Among the clergy in attendance were Pastor E.A. Adeboye, Archbishop Margaret Idahosa, Bishop Mike Okonkwo, Bishop Wale Oke, Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo, Pastor Paul Enenche, Pastor David Ibiyeomie, Pastor Poju Oyemade, Pastor Sam Adeyemi, and Pastor Jerry Eze.
Political dignitaries included Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his deputy Obafemi Hamzat, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Senator Gbenga Daniel, Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, and Professor Jerry Gana.
Several senators, members of the House of Representatives, and the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, were also present.
Traditional rulers such as the Olota of Ota and the Olohun of Omaran graced the occasion with their presence, adding cultural prestige to the occasion.
The event marked Oyedepo’s influence, both spiritual and societal, and continues to reverberate far beyond the walls of the church, touching lives across the globe.
Dr. Margaret Idahosa, wife of the late Bishop Benson Idahosa, delivered a heartfelt tribute, praising 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 shared.
Reflecting on the enduring unity Oyedepo has fostered within the Body of Christ in Nigeria, she added, “The unity you’ve built will continue through our descendants.”
Pastor E.A. Adeboye, Oyedepo’s spiritual mentor, commended him for his unwavering dedication to God’s calling, stating, “Even though I am older, Oyedepo found God earlier than I did. His faithfulness is exemplary, and the grace of God upon him is evident to all.”
Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo of Kingsway International Christian Centre (KICC) reflected on their long-standing relationship.
“I’ve known you for 37 years, and those who don’t know your beginnings can not fully celebrate your greatness”.
“The grace that rests on you is rare, and it doesn’t come in every generation. Nigeria is greatly blessed to have you.”
In his closing remarks, Bishop Oyedepo expressed deep gratitude to all those who attended, despite the workday schedule.
He attributed his achievements to God’s transformative power, saying, “I don’t have a personal story to tell but the story of Christ’s life-changing power. By grace, I am simply a microphone through which God’s voice resounds.”
He continued, “I am not an achiever; I am merely a partaker in God’s wonders. I am not an icon but a reflection of God’s glory, working 24 hours a day.”
Sharing his philosophy of life, Oyedepo added, “People don’t lack what they give; they lack what they keep. For honouring me today, may God honour you.”
He also mentioned that former President Goodluck Jonathan was en route to join the celebration, and he had received a special goodwill message from Nigeria’s current president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The event concluded with a sense of overwhelming joy, as family, friends, and followers celebrated the remarkable life and ministry of Bishop David Oyedepo.
INN-HOUSE☆ 