Early Life and Education
David Olaniyi Oyedepo was born on September 27, 1954, in Osogbo, Nigeria, but hails from Omu-Aran in Kwara State. Raised in a mixed-religious family, his father, Ibrahim, was a Muslim healer, while his mother, Dorcas, was a member of the Holy Order of the Cherubim and Seraphim Movement Church. His grandmother, who cared for him in his early years, introduced him to Christian principles, emphasizing the importance of early morning prayers and tithing.
Oyedepo pursued architecture at the Kwara State Polytechnic in Nigeria and later received a PhD in Human Development from Honolulu University, Hawaii, USA. He briefly worked with the Federal Ministry of Housing in Ilorin before resigning to focus on missionary work.
Personal Life
In 1982, Oyedepo married Florence Abiola Akano, now known as Faith Oyedepo. They have four children: David Jr., Isaac, Love, and Joyce. Both David Jr. and Isaac were ordained as pastors in May 2007 by Kenneth Copeland. David Jr. previously pastored the London branch of the church and is now the resident pastor of Faith Tabernacle in Ota, Nigeria. Isaac formerly pastored Winners’ Chapel International in Maryland, USA. Their first daughter, Love, is married to Stephen Ogah, also a pastor within the church, and their second daughter, Joyce, married Abimbola Abodunrin in 2020.
Ministry and Achievements
Oyedepo became “born again” at the age of 15 in 1969 through the influence of his teacher, Betty Lasher. In 1981, he claimed to have received a divine mandate through an 18-hour vision to liberate the world from oppression by preaching the word of faith, leading to the founding of the Living Faith Church Worldwide, initially called Liberation Faith Hour Ministries. The church started in Kaduna and later moved to Lagos in 1989.
Under Oyedepo’s leadership, the church has grown exponentially, with a presence in over 300 cities across Nigeria, as well as in 45 African nations, Dubai, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada. The church’s headquarters, known as Canaanland, is a 5,000-acre estate in Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria. It houses the 50,000-seat Faith Tabernacle, which was completed within 12 months and was reportedly built debt-free. The Guinness Book of Records recognized it as one of the largest church buildings in the world at its completion.
Canaanland also encompasses Covenant University, Faith Academy, and Kingdom Heritage Model Schools. The church operates its own publishing house, Dominion Publishing House, which has published over 70 titles, including books, magazines, and other resources.
Expansion and Global Reach
– In 1989, the church headquarters relocated to Canaanland, a 5,000-acre estate in Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria.
– The Faith Tabernacle, inaugurated in 1999 on Canaanland, became the church’s flagship auditorium, boasting a 50,000-seat capacity (once listed by the Guinness Book of Records as the largest church auditorium in the world).
– Under Oyedepo’s leadership, Winners’ Chapel expanded to over 65 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and India, with millions of members globally.
Leadership and Recognition
– Chancellor of Covenant University: Oyedepo prioritizes raising “a new generation of leaders” for Africa.
– Pentecostal World Fellowship: He serves as the chairman for the African region.
– Awards: Honored with the Leadership in African Education Award (2008) and listed by Forbes as one of Nigeria’s richest pastors, with an estimated net worth exceeding $150 million (though he attributes his wealth to divine providence).
Legacy and Influence
Beyond his ministerial duties, Oyedepo is deeply involved in education and philanthropy. He serves as the chancellor of Covenant University and Landmark University, both in Nigeria. His contributions to education and societal development have earned him numerous awards and recognition, including being listed among the 100 most reputable Africans.
– Pentecostal Growth: Oyedepo is a key figure in Nigeria’s Pentecostal boom, shaping modern African Christianity.
– Media Outreach: His televised sermons, social media presence, and the Winner’s Way International TV channel amplify his global influence.
– Shiloh Program: The church’s annual prophetic gathering attracts millions, with claims of miracles and breakthroughs.
Conclusion
Bishop David Oyedepo’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a global religious leader is a testament to his dedication, faith, and vision. His influence extends beyond the pulpit, impacting education, literature, and community development, making him one of the most prominent figures in modern Christianity.
Last modified: March 17, 2025
