THE CHANCELLOR
THE CHANCELLOR
Executive Summary
Bishop David O. Oyedepo is one of world's most respected Christian leaders and a globally recognized voice on faith, leadership, education, and national development. For more than four decades, he has served as the Founder and Presiding Bishop of Living Faith Church Worldwide (also known as Winner's Chapel) and Winners Chapel International an international ministry with millions of members in over 20,000 churches across the world. His leadership, consistency, and vision have made him a trusted figure to presidents, policymakers, and national leaders across continents
In addition to his spiritual leadership, Bishop Oyedepo is a distinguished nation-builder and education reformer. He established two of Africa's leading private universities, Covenant University and Landmark University, both internationally respected for innovation, integrity, and leadership development. His reforms have strengthened private higher education in Nigeria and elevated the nation's standing in global university rankings.
Outside of the Nigerian federal government, Bishop Oyedepo is recognized as one of the nation's largest private employers, creating thousands of jobs through his extensive educational institutions, ministry operations, and humanitarian initiatives.
Through the David Oyedepo Foundation, he supports extensive humanitarian initiatives focused on scholarships, youth empowerment, community development, and relief programs. His philanthropic footprint continues to strengthen opportunities for disadvantaged populations and foster long-term societal stability.
Bishop Oyedepo is also a prolific author of over 100 books on faith, leadership, personal growth, and societal transformation. His teachings have shaped leaders within government, business, and civic spheres, and his counsel remains highly sought after by individuals responsible for guiding nations and institutions.
Beyond public achievements, Bishop Oyedepo is a man of deep conviction, disciplined values, and unwavering commitment to strengthening families, communities, and nations. He is married to Pastor Faith Abiola Oyedepo, and together they have raised a family actively engaged in advancing Christian ministry and humanitarian service.
Background
David Olaniyi Oyedepo was born on September 27, 1954, and got saved as a teenager on February 19, 1969. He is a renowned Minister of the Gospel, an accomplished author, an astute administrator, an innovative educationist, and a towering leader whose impact transcends both the spiritual and secular realms.
He began his academic career in Architecture and proceeded to human development studies, where he holds a Ph.D. in Human Development and a Doctor of Divinity from Bethel Graduate School of Theology, Riverside, California, USA.
David Oyedepo considers himself a beneficiary of the manifold grace of God. He regards God as the constant of the equation of his life and solely responsible for bringing him this far.
The Mandate and Ministry
The genesis of his ministry can be traced to a long-drawn vision he received that handed down what is now known as the liberation Mandate between May 1 and May 2, 1981, that forever altered the trajectory of his life.
This mandate birthed a global ministry that has since established David Oyedepo as an Apostle of Faith to the nations. His ministry's impact continues to reverberate across 140 nations of the world, spread across six major continents.
Church Leadership and Unprecedented Growth
As the Founder and President of Living Faith Church Worldwide, also known as Winners’ Chapel International, David Oyedepo has overseen an extraordinary expansion of the ministry.
Today, the church has over 20,000 branches across Nigeria alone, with several thousands more spread across the six major continents of the world. The global following numbers in millions, as a testimony to the impact of the ministry.
The international headquarters of the church, Faith Tabernacle in Canaanland, Ota, Nigeria, stands as a monument to faith and divine providence. This massive edifice, reputed to be one of the largest church sanctuaries in the world, seats 50,000 worshippers.
Forbes magazine recognized Faith Tabernacle in 2015, citing it as the largest single church congregation in the world.
Recently, his ministry has embarked on a bigger project, the construction of The Ark—a state-of-the-art, stadium-like sanctuary with a seating capacity of 100,000. The foundation for this this colossal project was laid March 25, 2021 and is fast nearing completion.
Educational Initiatives and Impact
As an educationist with a passion for redefining education in Nigeria and beyond, David Oyedepo has spearheaded a revolution in the educational sector.
He is the visionary behind Covenant University in Ota, a suburb of Lagos, Nigeria State, which since its inception has consistently been rated as one of Nigeria's leading universities.
The university, which opened its doors in October 2002, has gained international acclaim and is listed among the elite group of universities worldwide, with accolades such as being the best private university both in Nigeria and West Africa, and seventh in Africa.
Covenant University, in a recent ranking, was rated the number one in Africa and 49th globally. Professor Peter Okebukola, the Director of the Institute for African Culture and International Understanding (IACIU) under UNESCO and a one-time Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, stated that in the 76-year history of the Nigerian university system, no university, except Covenant University under the Chancellorship of Dr. David Oyedepo, has attracted as many Nobel Prize winners to its adjunct faculty. He added that he interviewed three of these academic giants, and they ascribed their decision to associate with Covenant University to two factors – the commitment and international standing of the Chancellor, and the quality of research carried out by the University’s academic staff.
Today, Covenant university tops the list of 20 most employable universities in Nigeria, boasting a 90% employability rate for its graduates.
In March 2011, his mission founded Landmark University in Omu Aran, Kwara State, Nigeria. This university, uniquely focused on agriculture, has quickly risen to prominence, achieving the 8th position in the 2014 Webometrics Ranking of Nigerian Universities, just seven years after its establishment.
Landmark University is the first agro-focused private university in Nigeria, reflecting David Oyedepo’s commitment to addressing the critical needs of food crisis both in the nation and across the continent.
Novel and Innovative Contributions to Tertiary Education
Both Covenant and Landmark universities are guided by well-defined founding philosophies and core values, which have set new standards in higher education. They offer custom-built programs, designed by Bishop David Oyedepo, such as Entrepreneurial Studies, the Total Man Concept (TMC), Leadership Development Studies (LDS), Agripreneurship and Towards a Total Graduate (TTG), which aim to produce well-rounded graduates equipped to lead in various sectors of society.
· Total Man Concept (TMC) espouses Bishop Oyedepo's concept of Lifematics, which includes Learning to make the most of life; Learning to live and learning to lead; Living a calculated life; Identifying the constants and noting the diverse variables; Learning the Mathematics of living; Learning the process of solving the complex equations of life and Learning to solve problems.
· Entrepreneurial Development Studies (EDS) equips students with a creative, innovative, and productive lifestyle, enabling them to see opportunities amid adversities. It trains students to devise legitimate means of making a living.
· The Towards a Total Graduate programme was designed to equip would-be graduates of both universities, intentionally preparing them for the World of Work and life after University. It is common knowledge that most people get out of school without having a bearing for living.
· Leadership Development Studies trains students on the rudiments of leadership, thereby equipping them to proffer solutions to Africa's plethora of challenges. Students at Covenant University complete their undergraduate programme with a Diploma in Leadership Development.
· The Agripreneurship Program is an innovative approach to accomplishing the agrarian revolution of Landmark University. The focus of the program is to train highly skilled and productive graduates with a passion for agriculture who will pioneer and drive food security solutions. Every Landmark University student completes their undergraduate studies with a Diploma in Agriprenuership.
The African Leadership Development Centre (ALDC)
Among his legacy is the endowment of the Africa leadership Development Centre (ALDC) to Covenant University. The centre offers specialized leadership training to raise impact-driven leaders.
David O. Oyedepo, the visioner of ALDC, believes that instilling leadership etiquette and principles in people at all levels of society will impact the quality of leadership across board.
The vision of ALDC is to raise a new generation of impact-driven leaders through alternative knowledge resulting in pace-setting contributions to the global community.
The centre's online intensive leadership diploma and certificate courses have drawn thousands of participants from more than 50 countries across all continents, including Nigeria, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirate, Germany, Japan, South Africa, China, and many others. The programmes have yielded a multitude of testimonials, with participants sharing stories of transformed mindsets and impact in their endeavours. In addition, the centre now runs Masters In Strategic Leadership, which has attracted hundreds of participants from around the world.
Publishing and Literary Contributions
He began his publishing work in 1985 and later founded Dominion Publishing House in July 1992, he has authored over 100 titles till date which have reached millions of readers around the world.
These works, which cover a wide range of subjects, have been translated into several international languages, including French, Chinese, Indonesian, Portuguese, and Swahili, among others making them accessible to a global audience. Dominion Publishing House has grown into a major publishing house, with capabilities extending to Bible publishing.
Awards, Recognitions, and Global Influence
David Oyedepo’s influence and contributions have been recognized through numerous awards and accolades, both locally and internationally.
Some notable ones include:
· Fellow of the following institutions — Nigerian Academy of Education, Nigerian Society for Financial Research, Nigerian Institute of Strategic Management, etc.
· Global Companion of the Institute of Business Administration and Knowledge Management (CIBAKM).
· Award for leadership in enhancing academic and research excellence in higher education by the Southern University and A&M College, Baton Rouge, LA (2011).
· Distinguished Award for Excellence in Education, Administration, and Leadership – Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife (2012)
· Listed among the 100 Most Reputable People on Earth (2019).
· Recognition by the New York State Senate for Outstanding and Dedicated Service and Ministry (2013)
In recognition of his outstanding leadership, the Federal Government of Nigeria honored him by naming a road in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, after him in 2008.
David Oyedepo is also frequently sought after as a consultant and confidant to numerous business, academic, and political leaders around the world
Philanthropy and Social Impact
David Oyedepo’s compassion for humanity is vividly expressed through the David Oyedepo Foundation (DOF), which he founded and serves as Chairman of the Board of Trustees.
The foundation is dedicated to improving the quality of life for the less privileged by creating platforms for empowerment, education, and support.
His foundation today makes essential regular supplies to orphanages, challenged children’s homes, displaced people camps, old people homes.
Since its inception, the foundation has awarded scholarships worth millions of dollars to numerous young people, along with endowments in various other areas of human and institutional needs.
Institutions Established by David Oyedepo
David Oyedepo is founder and president of the following institutions:
· David Oyedepo Ministries International
· Living Faith Church Worldwide
· Winners Chapel International
· World Mission Agency
· Word of Faith Bible Institute
· Dominion Publishing House
· David Oyedepo Foundation
He is also the Founder and Chairman, Board of Regents of Covenant University and Landmark University.
Ongoing Legacy
David Oyedepo’s legacy is one of faith, vision, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of humanity. His contributions to spiritual growth, education, and social development continue to resonate globally, impacting countless lives and shaping the future for generations to come.
David Oyedepo is married to Faith, and their union is blessed with sons, daughters, and grandchildren.
To God alone be all the glory!
The Chancellor, Dr David Oyedepo has continued to attract positive media attention. Press men and media gatekeepers world over have visited the University campus to get on the ground, first hand information on the vision-driven, award-winning University. Excepts from the on-the-spot-interviews and comments, the Chancellor has addressed world media conferences at every turning point in the life of the University.
- Speech by Dr. David Oyedepo Chancellor and Chairman, Board of Regents, Covenant University, Canaanland, Ota, on the occasion of the world press Conference, held on Monday, July 24, 2006, Heralding the week-long activities to mark the 1st Convocation Ceremony of the University.
- Remarks by Dr David Oyedepo Chancellor,Covenant University, CanaanLand. Ota at the Media Interactive Session Held on Monday. AUGust 16. 2004
- Speech Delivered by Dr. David Oyedepo Chancellor, Covenant University, CanaanLand, Ota at the Press Conference Held on Monday, 11th April, 2005
- COVENANT UNIVERSITY TAKE - OFF UPDATE PRESS BRIEFING BY THE CHANCELLOR OF THE UNIVERSITY, BISHOP DAVID OYEDEPO
- AN ADDRESS BY THE CHANCELLOR OF COVENANT UNIVERSITY, DR. DAVID OYEDEPO, DELIVERED AT THE WORLD PRESS CONFERENCE ON OCTOBER 14, 2002 TO HERALD THE FORMAL TAKE - OFF OF THE INSTITUTION SLATED FOR OCTOBER 21, 2002.
Every challenge in the path of life is a test, and only those who confront them well, emerge as champions.
Executive Summary
Bishop David O. Oyedepo is one of world's most respected Christian leaders and a globally recognized voice on faith, leadership, education, and national development. For more than four decades, he has served as the Founder and Presiding Bishop of Living Faith Church Worldwide (also known as Winner's Chapel) and Winners Chapel International an international ministry with millions of members in over 20,000 churches across the world. His leadership, consistency, and vision have made him a trusted figure to presidents, policymakers, and national leaders across continents
In addition to his spiritual leadership, Bishop Oyedepo is a distinguished nation-builder and education reformer. He established two of Africa's leading private universities, Covenant University and Landmark University, both internationally respected for innovation, integrity, and leadership development. His reforms have strengthened private higher education in Nigeria and elevated the nation's standing in global university rankings.
Outside of the Nigerian federal government, Bishop Oyedepo is recognized as one of the nation's largest private employers, creating thousands of jobs through his extensive educational institutions, ministry operations, and humanitarian initiatives.
Through the David Oyedepo Foundation, he supports extensive humanitarian initiatives focused on scholarships, youth empowerment, community development, and relief programs. His philanthropic footprint continues to strengthen opportunities for disadvantaged populations and foster long-term societal stability.
Bishop Oyedepo is also a prolific author of over 100 books on faith, leadership, personal growth, and societal transformation. His teachings have shaped leaders within government, business, and civic spheres, and his counsel remains highly sought after by individuals responsible for guiding nations and institutions.
Beyond public achievements, Bishop Oyedepo is a man of deep conviction, disciplined values, and unwavering commitment to strengthening families, communities, and nations. He is married to Pastor Faith Abiola Oyedepo, and together they have raised a family actively engaged in advancing Christian ministry and humanitarian service.
Background
David Olaniyi Oyedepo was born on September 27, 1954, and got saved as a teenager on February 19, 1969. He is a renowned Minister of the Gospel, an accomplished author, an astute administrator, an innovative educationist, and a towering leader whose impact transcends both the spiritual and secular realms.
He began his academic career in Architecture and proceeded to human development studies, where he holds a Ph.D. in Human Development and a Doctor of Divinity from Bethel Graduate School of Theology, Riverside, California, USA.
David Oyedepo considers himself a beneficiary of the manifold grace of God. He regards God as the constant of the equation of his life and solely responsible for bringing him this far.
The Mandate and Ministry
The genesis of his ministry can be traced to a long-drawn vision he received that handed down what is now known as the liberation Mandate between May 1 and May 2, 1981, that forever altered the trajectory of his life.
This mandate birthed a global ministry that has since established David Oyedepo as an Apostle of Faith to the nations. His ministry's impact continues to reverberate across 140 nations of the world, spread across six major continents.
Church Leadership and Unprecedented Growth
As the Founder and President of Living Faith Church Worldwide, also known as Winners’ Chapel International, David Oyedepo has overseen an extraordinary expansion of the ministry.
Today, the church has over 20,000 branches across Nigeria alone, with several thousands more spread across the six major continents of the world. The global following numbers in millions, as a testimony to the impact of the ministry.
The international headquarters of the church, Faith Tabernacle in Canaanland, Ota, Nigeria, stands as a monument to faith and divine providence. This massive edifice, reputed to be one of the largest church sanctuaries in the world, seats 50,000 worshippers.
Forbes magazine recognized Faith Tabernacle in 2015, citing it as the largest single church congregation in the world.
Recently, his ministry has embarked on a bigger project, the construction of The Ark—a state-of-the-art, stadium-like sanctuary with a seating capacity of 100,000. The foundation for this this colossal project was laid March 25, 2021 and is fast nearing completion.
Educational Initiatives and Impact
As an educationist with a passion for redefining education in Nigeria and beyond, David Oyedepo has spearheaded a revolution in the educational sector.
He is the visionary behind Covenant University in Ota, a suburb of Lagos, Nigeria State, which since its inception has consistently been rated as one of Nigeria's leading universities.
The university, which opened its doors in October 2002, has gained international acclaim and is listed among the elite group of universities worldwide, with accolades such as being the best private university both in Nigeria and West Africa, and seventh in Africa.
Covenant University, in a recent ranking, was rated the number one in Africa and 49th globally. Professor Peter Okebukola, the Director of the Institute for African Culture and International Understanding (IACIU) under UNESCO and a one-time Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, stated that in the 76-year history of the Nigerian university system, no university, except Covenant University under the Chancellorship of Dr. David Oyedepo, has attracted as many Nobel Prize winners to its adjunct faculty. He added that he interviewed three of these academic giants, and they ascribed their decision to associate with Covenant University to two factors – the commitment and international standing of the Chancellor, and the quality of research carried out by the University’s academic staff.
Today, Covenant university tops the list of 20 most employable universities in Nigeria, boasting a 90% employability rate for its graduates.
In March 2011, his mission founded Landmark University in Omu Aran, Kwara State, Nigeria. This university, uniquely focused on agriculture, has quickly risen to prominence, achieving the 8th position in the 2014 Webometrics Ranking of Nigerian Universities, just seven years after its establishment.
Landmark University is the first agro-focused private university in Nigeria, reflecting David Oyedepo’s commitment to addressing the critical needs of food crisis both in the nation and across the continent.
Novel and Innovative Contributions to Tertiary Education
Both Covenant and Landmark universities are guided by well-defined founding philosophies and core values, which have set new standards in higher education. They offer custom-built programs, designed by Bishop David Oyedepo, such as Entrepreneurial Studies, the Total Man Concept (TMC), Leadership Development Studies (LDS), Agripreneurship and Towards a Total Graduate (TTG), which aim to produce well-rounded graduates equipped to lead in various sectors of society.
· Total Man Concept (TMC) espouses Bishop Oyedepo's concept of Lifematics, which includes Learning to make the most of life; Learning to live and learning to lead; Living a calculated life; Identifying the constants and noting the diverse variables; Learning the Mathematics of living; Learning the process of solving the complex equations of life and Learning to solve problems.
· Entrepreneurial Development Studies (EDS) equips students with a creative, innovative, and productive lifestyle, enabling them to see opportunities amid adversities. It trains students to devise legitimate means of making a living.
· The Towards a Total Graduate programme was designed to equip would-be graduates of both universities, intentionally preparing them for the World of Work and life after University. It is common knowledge that most people get out of school without having a bearing for living.
· Leadership Development Studies trains students on the rudiments of leadership, thereby equipping them to proffer solutions to Africa's plethora of challenges. Students at Covenant University complete their undergraduate programme with a Diploma in Leadership Development.
· The Agripreneurship Program is an innovative approach to accomplishing the agrarian revolution of Landmark University. The focus of the program is to train highly skilled and productive graduates with a passion for agriculture who will pioneer and drive food security solutions. Every Landmark University student completes their undergraduate studies with a Diploma in Agriprenuership.
The African Leadership Development Centre (ALDC)
Among his legacy is the endowment of the Africa leadership Development Centre (ALDC) to Covenant University. The centre offers specialized leadership training to raise impact-driven leaders.
David O. Oyedepo, the visioner of ALDC, believes that instilling leadership etiquette and principles in people at all levels of society will impact the quality of leadership across board.
The vision of ALDC is to raise a new generation of impact-driven leaders through alternative knowledge resulting in pace-setting contributions to the global community.
The centre's online intensive leadership diploma and certificate courses have drawn thousands of participants from more than 50 countries across all continents, including Nigeria, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirate, Germany, Japan, South Africa, China, and many others. The programmes have yielded a multitude of testimonials, with participants sharing stories of transformed mindsets and impact in their endeavours. In addition, the centre now runs Masters In Strategic Leadership, which has attracted hundreds of participants from around the world.
Publishing and Literary Contributions
He began his publishing work in 1985 and later founded Dominion Publishing House in July 1992, he has authored over 100 titles till date which have reached millions of readers around the world.
These works, which cover a wide range of subjects, have been translated into several international languages, including French, Chinese, Indonesian, Portuguese, and Swahili, among others making them accessible to a global audience. Dominion Publishing House has grown into a major publishing house, with capabilities extending to Bible publishing.
Awards, Recognitions, and Global Influence
David Oyedepo’s influence and contributions have been recognized through numerous awards and accolades, both locally and internationally.
Some notable ones include:
· Fellow of the following institutions — Nigerian Academy of Education, Nigerian Society for Financial Research, Nigerian Institute of Strategic Management, etc.
· Global Companion of the Institute of Business Administration and Knowledge Management (CIBAKM).
· Award for leadership in enhancing academic and research excellence in higher education by the Southern University and A&M College, Baton Rouge, LA (2011).
· Distinguished Award for Excellence in Education, Administration, and Leadership – Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife (2012)
· Listed among the 100 Most Reputable People on Earth (2019).
· Recognition by the New York State Senate for Outstanding and Dedicated Service and Ministry (2013)
In recognition of his outstanding leadership, the Federal Government of Nigeria honored him by naming a road in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, after him in 2008.
David Oyedepo is also frequently sought after as a consultant and confidant to numerous business, academic, and political leaders around the world
Philanthropy and Social Impact
David Oyedepo’s compassion for humanity is vividly expressed through the David Oyedepo Foundation (DOF), which he founded and serves as Chairman of the Board of Trustees.
The foundation is dedicated to improving the quality of life for the less privileged by creating platforms for empowerment, education, and support.
His foundation today makes essential regular supplies to orphanages, challenged children’s homes, displaced people camps, old people homes.
Since its inception, the foundation has awarded scholarships worth millions of dollars to numerous young people, along with endowments in various other areas of human and institutional needs.
Institutions Established by David Oyedepo
David Oyedepo is founder and president of the following institutions:
· David Oyedepo Ministries International
· Living Faith Church Worldwide
· Winners Chapel International
· World Mission Agency
· Word of Faith Bible Institute
· Dominion Publishing House
· David Oyedepo Foundation
He is also the Founder and Chairman, Board of Regents of Covenant University and Landmark University.
Ongoing Legacy
David Oyedepo’s legacy is one of faith, vision, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of humanity. His contributions to spiritual growth, education, and social development continue to resonate globally, impacting countless lives and shaping the future for generations to come.
David Oyedepo is married to Faith, and their union is blessed with sons, daughters, and grandchildren.
To God alone be all the glory!
The Chancellor, Dr David Oyedepo has continued to attract positive media attention. Press men and media gatekeepers world over have visited the University campus to get on the ground, first hand information on the vision-driven, award-winning University. Excepts from the on-the-spot-interviews and comments, the Chancellor has addressed world media conferences at every turning point in the life of the University.
- Speech by Dr. David Oyedepo Chancellor and Chairman, Board of Regents, Covenant University, Canaanland, Ota, on the occasion of the world press Conference, held on Monday, July 24, 2006, Heralding the week-long activities to mark the 1st Convocation Ceremony of the University.
- Remarks by Dr David Oyedepo Chancellor,Covenant University, CanaanLand. Ota at the Media Interactive Session Held on Monday. AUGust 16. 2004
- Speech Delivered by Dr. David Oyedepo Chancellor, Covenant University, CanaanLand, Ota at the Press Conference Held on Monday, 11th April, 2005
- COVENANT UNIVERSITY TAKE - OFF UPDATE PRESS BRIEFING BY THE CHANCELLOR OF THE UNIVERSITY, BISHOP DAVID OYEDEPO
- AN ADDRESS BY THE CHANCELLOR OF COVENANT UNIVERSITY, DR. DAVID OYEDEPO, DELIVERED AT THE WORLD PRESS CONFERENCE ON OCTOBER 14, 2002 TO HERALD THE FORMAL TAKE - OFF OF THE INSTITUTION SLATED FOR OCTOBER 21, 2002.