David Oyedepo

David Olaniyi Oyedepo is a Nigerian pastor, architect, and academic who founded the Living Faith Church Worldwide, known globally as Winners' Chapel. As the Presiding Bishop and General Superintendent, he leads a network of congregations spanning over 300 cities across six continents. His ministry is headquartered at the Faith Tabernacle in Ota, Ogun State, a 50,000-seat auditorium that remains one of the largest church buildings on earth.

Beyond the pulpit, Oyedepo is the chancellor of Covenant University and Landmark University, both institutions he established. A prolific author with dozens of titles on faith and prosperity, he also holds a PhD in Human Development. In 2011, Forbes named him the richest pastor in Nigeria, reflecting his entrepreneurial reach that includes real estate, education, and publishing.

Today, his sermons are broadcast worldwide, and his influence extends into social and political commentary, where he has been a vocal critic of government failures. Followers, known as "Winners," look to him for prophetic declarations and practical teachings on faith and success. [edit]

David Oyedepo was born on September 27, 1954, in Kwara State, Nigeria, into a Muslim family. His early life took a pivotal turn when he converted to Christianity in his youth, a decision that set him on a path toward ministry. He pursued architecture at university, a profession he practiced before dedicating himself fully to the pulpit.

During his time as an architect, Oyedepo experienced what he describes as a divine calling and a prophetic encounter that directed him to establish a ministry focused on faith and deliverance. He has often recounted a vision where God showed him a church that would impact nations. This spiritual experience, combined with his academic training, shaped his approach to ministry, blending practical discipline with spiritual fervor.

Before the breakthrough, he preached in small gatherings and held prayer meetings, building a foundation of followers who believed in his message. His early sermons emphasized faith, healing, and prosperity, themes that would become hallmarks of his later work. These formative years, though not widely documented, were marked by a growing conviction that he was called to lead a global movement. [edit]

In 1981, Oyedepo founded the Living Faith Church Worldwide in Kaduna, Nigeria, which would later become Winners' Chapel. The church experienced rapid growth, but the turning point came in 1999 with the completion of the Faith Tabernacle auditorium in Ota. With a seating capacity of over 50,000, it was then considered the largest church auditorium in the world, drawing international attention.

He expanded his influence by founding Covenant University in 2002 and Landmark University in 2011, serving as chancellor of both. These institutions have become prominent centers of learning in Nigeria, blending academic excellence with Christian values. His ministry network grew to encompass more than 300 cities globally, with churches in Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

Oyedepo is also a prolific author, having written books like "Understanding Financial Prosperity," "Covenant Wealth," and "Winning The War Against Poverty." His sermons are broadcast through YouTube and other media platforms, reaching millions. In 2011, Forbes named him the richest pastor in Nigeria, a recognition that cemented his status as a global religious leader. [edit]

Oyedepo is known for his authoritative preaching style, marked by declarations of faith and prophetic pronouncements. He often wears sharp formal suits, projecting a commanding presence. His sermons emphasize financial prosperity and spiritual warfare, resonating deeply with his followers. On social media, his official accounts share daily teachings and live broadcasts, engaging a global audience. Critics and supporters alike note his confrontational tone, especially when addressing societal issues. His followers, "Winners," gather in massive numbers at Faith Tabernacle and regional churches, creating a sense of belonging and shared purpose. [edit]

David Oyedepo stands as the 11th most famous person in Pastors, a position he holds steady within the iFANN Global Fame Rankings. This placement reflects his enduring influence across global media coverage and consumption signals without reliance on transient search trends. While secular celebrities often cultivate distinct fan clubs with branded rituals, Oyedepo's following remains structurally identical to his congregation, identified primarily as members of the Living Faith Church or Winners Chapel rather than by a unique fandom name. His adherents engage through official church channels and sermons, participating in tithing framed as seed faith and attending New Dawn services. The organization operates as a global megachurch with branches in over 50 countries, making it one of the most organized religious entities in Africa. Rituals associated with him are deeply rooted in religious practice rather than pop culture phenomena; followers seek his prophetic declarations for healing and financial breakthrough. A notable aspect of this relationship is his emphasis on discipline, where he frequently challenges members to reject poverty. In recent developments, his interaction has become more politically charged, particularly after he publicly urged congregants to contact him directly if kidnapped. These moments underscore his perceived role as a protector and powerful intercessor. Unlike secular figures who might have birthday billboards funded by fans, Oyedepo's supporters manifest their devotion through massive charity drives and humanitarian aid distribution led by the church.[edit]

Despite his immense wealth, Oyedepo has stated he is not in a hurry to go to heaven, remarking that dying at age 70 would be too early. His background as an architect directly influenced the design of the Faith Tabernacle, a 50,000-seat auditorium completed in 2006 that remains one of the largest church buildings on earth. He has publicly criticized the Nigerian government's FRSC bill, arguing against a proposed ₦50,000 fine for preaching on buses. A defining legend of his modern tenure emerged in April 2026 when he advised congregants to give kidnappers his phone number if they were abducted, claiming divine protection would intervene. This moment cemented his reputation for bold prophetic declarations. Later that year, he declared immediate divine judgment on terrorists and their sponsors within seven days, reinforcing the folklore surrounding his ability to issue time-bound prophecies. In August 2026, he confronted political leadership regarding national insecurity, questioning the value placed on human lives versus preaching restrictions. Another enduring story highlights his stance against sports betting, where he strongly advised Nigerian youths to avoid it as a threat to their future. While some stories of his protective power remain part of oral tradition, these specific events are documented instances of his confrontational style and the intense devotion he inspires among his flock.[edit]

Oyedepo is married to Dr. Faith Abiola Oyedepo, known as Kemi, who has been a partner in ministry for decades. In a 2026 reflection, Kemi revealed she "knew nothing about Winners Chapel" before meeting her husband, highlighting that their marriage predates the church's prominence. The couple has four children: David Jr., Isaac, Love, and Joyce, all of whom are involved in ministry. David Jr. and Isaac serve as pastors within the church, continuing the family's legacy. The Oyedepos are known for their close-knit family life, often appearing together at church events. [edit]

Faith Abiola Oyedepo, David Oyedepo Jr., Isaac Oyedepo, Love Oyedepo, Joyce Oyedepo, Bola Tinubu. [edit]

David Oyedepo has been married to Dr. Faith Abiola Oyedepo, known as Kemi, for over four decades. The couple met before the founding of Winners' Chapel, and Kemi has shared that she knew nothing about the church until she met her husband. They married and raised four children together: David Jr., Isaac, Love, and Joyce. There are no records of any other public relationships, divorces, or remarriages. As of 2026, the couple remains married, with Kemi actively involved in ministry alongside her husband. [edit]

Per iFANN's editorial analysis, David Oyedepo's net worth stands at $200 Million as of 2026, marking him as one of Africa's wealthiest religious leaders. This financial standing derives from a diverse portfolio including the global network of Winners' Chapel congregations that generate substantial tithes and offerings, alongside Covenant University and Landmark University, which attract students nationwide through their tuition structures. His publishing enterprise, featuring dozens of titles on faith and prosperity, contributes significantly to his income, as does his ownership of significant real estate assets such as the Faith Tabernacle auditorium and other church properties. Speaking engagements and large-scale ministry events further augment his earnings. His financial position has shown consistent growth since Forbes identified him as Nigeria's richest pastor in 2011.[edit]

David Oyedepo has received honorary doctoral degrees from various institutions in recognition of his contributions to ministry and education. His most notable recognition came in 2011 when Forbes named him the richest pastor in Nigeria, a testament to his influence and success. He also serves as chancellor of two universities he founded, an honor in itself. [edit]