Former Nigerian President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, has made a lighthearted yet optimistic declaration during the 70th birthday celebration of Bishop David Oyedepo, the Presiding Bishop of Living Faith Worldwide (Winner Chapel International).
Obasanjo, who is currently 87, expressed his hope and determination to live long enough to attend Oyedepo’s 90th birthday anniversary, which will take place in 20 years. By then, Obasanjo would be 107 years old, and his playful prediction captured the attention of the congregation at the event held at Faith Tabernacle in Ota, Ogun State, on Friday.
According PM News, Obasanjo, while speaking to those gathered to celebrate Oyedepo’s milestone, he humorously remarked, “Today you are joining the club of Septuagenarians. From Septuagenarian, you will become Octogenarian, and I will be here. From Octogenarian, you will become Nonagenarian, and I will be here. After that, I will leave you alone, and God will be with you.” His light banter was well-received as he indicated his firm belief in longevity and shared a personal connection with Oyedepo’s journey.
Reflecting on his relationship with Oyedepo and his own long history in Ota, Obasanjo shared memories of when he first ventured into farming in the area in 1979. He commented on how Oyedepo followed a similar trajectory by establishing a presence in Ota after responding to a divine calling. He quipped, “Ota is not Lagos, but he did not miss his way. He started something small in Lagos and then came to Ota to start something big. Oyedepo built something that put Ota on the map of Africa and the world.”
In a show of admiration, Obasanjo acknowledged Oyedepo’s significant contributions, particularly the rapid construction of Faith Tabernacle, one of the largest church auditoriums in the world. The entire building was completed in just one year, a feat Obasanjo described as nothing short of miraculous. “If Faith Tabernacle, where we are now, can be built in one year, and you say that is not a miracle?” he remarked, giving credit to Oyedepo’s vision and leadership. The former president lauded Oyedepo’s determination and accomplishments, noting how the church has become a beacon not only in Africa but also on a global scale.
Throughout the celebration, Obasanjo also injected humor into his speech by playfully referring to the seniority of some of Nigeria’s most prominent pastors. In particular, he jokingly nicknamed Pastor Enoch Adeboye as “SP-Senior Pastor” while affectionately calling Oyedepo “JP-Junior Pastor.” The congregation responded warmly to the light-hearted comparison, which stressed the camaraderie and respect Obasanjo has for the influential religious leaders.
Beyond the humor, Obasanjo emphasized Oyedepo’s humility and reverence, especially when speaking about Pastor Adeboye. He praised Oyedepo for the gracious way in which he acknowledged others who have made significant spiritual contributions. According to Obasanjo, this humility and deference are part of what makes Oyedepo a respected figure both within and outside the Christian community.
Towards the end of his speech, Obasanjo encouraged others to follow Oyedepo’s example of being close to God, attributing the bishop’s numerous achievements to his spiritual connection. He urged the audience to strengthen their relationship with God, saying, “You can achieve miracles in your life, and the way to do that is by getting closer to God. God appreciates you because you are close to Him, and He will expand your coast.” Obasanjo’s words resonated with many, serving as a powerful reminder of the role faith plays in personal and collective success.
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