President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori have celebrated the Founder and Presiding Bishop of Living Faith Church Worldwide, Bishop David Olaniyi Oyedepo, on his 72nd birthday.
They described the cleric’s investments in education and human-capital development as significant contributions to Nigeria’s development.
President Tinubu particularly acknowledged the impact of Covenant University and Landmark University, saying the institutions established under Oyedepo’s leadership have provided platforms for academic excellence, entrepreneurship, innovation and leadership development.
In a birthday message yesterday in Abuja through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President noted that Oyedepo’s influence has extended beyond the pulpit into education, publishing, leadership development and humanitarian service, while Living Faith Church has established a significant international presence across Africa and other parts of the world.
According to him, over more than four decades in ministry, the bishop has emerged as a prominent Nigerian voice on faith, leadership, integrity, education and human development, with his books and teachings reaching audiences beyond Nigeria.
‘Bishop David Oyedepo has devoted decades to preaching faith, promoting integrity and encouraging excellence, while investing substantially in education and the development of human capacity.
‘His commitment to building lives, institutions and communities has given his ministry a significant national and international footprint,’ President Tinubu said.
The President also applauded the social-development initiatives associated with Oyedepo’s ministry, including schools, healthcare facilities and humanitarian interventions, as well as the David Oyedepo Foundation’s support for education and people in need.
‘I especially salute Bishop Oyedepo for the social-development initiatives, including schools, healthcare facilities, and humanitarian interventions, associated with his ministry and the David Oyedepo Foundation’s support for education and people in need,’ he said.
President Tinubu prayed for continued wisdom, strength, good health and grace for the cleric as he continues his work in faith, education, morality and human development.
‘On this auspicious occasion of his 72nd birthday, I celebrate his life of service and pray that Almighty God will continue to grant him wisdom, strength, good health and renewed grace as he advances the cause of faith, education, morality and human development.
‘I wish Bishop Oyedepo many more years of fulfilment, good health and continued service to God and humanity,’ the President added.
Also, in his birthday message, Governor Oborevwori described Oyedepo’s contributions to Christianity, education and nation-building as enduring.
In a goodwill message yesterday in Asaba, the state capital, by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the governor described Oyedepo as a ‘rare gift to Christendom,’ saying his decades of dedicated service have inspired millions in Nigeria and beyond.
He said the cleric’s teachings, mentorship, and commitment to Christian ministry has helped shape generations of believers.
Oborevwori noted that the cleric’s contributions to education through Covenant University and Landmark University have strengthened academic excellence, character development and youth empowerment.
He said: ‘Bishop Oyedepo is not only a father in the faith but also a role model whose life of service, integrity and visionary leadership continues to inspire millions, including me.
‘On behalf of my family, the government and people of Delta State, I heartily congratulate our father in the Lord, Bishop David Oyedepo, as he marks 72 remarkable years of a life dedicated to God and humanity.
‘Your commitment to nation-building, spiritual guidance and the empowerment of youths through quality education is truly commendable. We remain proud of your accomplishments and grateful for the positive influence you have had on countless lives.’
Governor Oborevwori prayed that God would grant Oyedepo continued strength, sound health and grace for many more years of impactful service to the Church and humanity.