By Kazeem Ugbodaga
Former President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, has humorously declared that he plans to attend the 90th birthday celebration of the Presiding Bishop of Living Faith Worldwide, Bishop David Oyedepo, in 20 years time when he will be 107 years old.
Speaking at Oyedepo’s 70th birthday celebration held at the Faith Tabernacle in Ota, Ogun State, on Friday, Obasanjo, who is currently 87, confidently expressed his intention to live long enough to mark the occasion.
“Today you are joining the club of Septuagenarians,” Obasanjo said while addressing the congregation.
“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,” he added.
Reflecting on his own connection to Ota and Oyedepo’s contribution to the area, Obasanjo recounted his experience with farming in Ota, which began in 1979.
He noted how Oyedepo followed a similar path, moving to Ota after receiving a divine calling.
“Ota is not Lagos, but he did not miss his way,” Obasanjo remarked. “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.”
Obasanjo went on to highlight the impressive construction of Faith Tabernacle, which was built in just one year. “If Faith Tabernacle, where we are now, can be built in one year, and you say that is not a miracle?” He asked, praising Oyedepo’s accomplishments.
In a lighter moment, Obasanjo shared his playful interactions with the bishop, jokingly referring to their seniority and nicknaming Pastor Enoch Adeboye as “SP-Senior Pastor” and Oyedepo as “JP-Junior Pastor.”
He also lauded Oyedepo’s humility, particularly in the way he speaks about Pastor Adeboye, describing him as gracious and reverent.
Obasanjo credited Oyedepo’s achievements to his deep connection with God, encouraging others to emulate the bishop’s proximity to the divine.
“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 said.