David Oyedepo Biography

Early Life and Background

Born on September 27, 1954, in Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria, David Olaniyi Oyedepo grew up in a mixed religious household. His father, Ibrahim, was a Muslim healer, while his mother, Dorcas, was a devout Anglican. Raised in Kwara State by his grandmother, young David encountered Christianity early and was introduced to a prayerful life rooted in discipline.

His education took him through Ilorin for secondary school and later to the Kwara State Polytechnic, where he studied architecture. But his future would not be limited to design or construction. Something deeper stirred in his spirit.

The Birth of a Calling

In 1981, during a spiritual retreat, Oyedepo claimed he received a vision from God instructing him to liberate the world from the oppression of the devil through the preaching of the Word. This moment marked the turning point that would birth one of the largest church movements in Africa.

Winners’ Chapel, officially known as Living Faith Church Worldwide, was established in 1981 in Kaduna. By 1983, he was ordained by Pastor Enoch Adeboye of the Redeemed Christian Church of God. And that was only the beginning.

Ministry and the Rise of Winners’ Chapel

David Oyedepo moved the church headquarters to Lagos in 1989, setting the stage for rapid expansion. In 1999, he commissioned Faith Tabernacle in Ota, Ogun State, a 50,000-seat auditorium recognized as one of the largest church buildings globally.

Winners’ Chapel is now a global network with thousands of branches in over 65 countries. Its annual event, Shiloh, draws millions both in person and virtually. Faith-driven and fiercely entrepreneurial, the ministry also includes Covenant University, Landmark University, Dominion Publishing House, and several primary and secondary schools.

Preaching, Books, and Leadership Style

Oyedepo is known for a bold, prosperity-centered message. His sermons are fiery and direct, often emphasizing faith, dominion, wealth, and divine healing. He’s also a prolific author. Some of his most popular titles include:

• Understanding Financial Prosperity
• The Unlimited Power of Faith
• Walking in the Newness of Life
• Winning Prayer

Through Dominion Publishing House, his books have sold millions of copies globally.

Personal Life

David Oyedepo is married to Faith Abiola Oyedepo, a pastor and co-laborer in ministry. Their marriage has been a cornerstone of his teachings on family and spiritual alignment. They have four children: David Jr., Isaac, Love, and Joyce. David Jr. and Isaac are both deeply involved in ministry, with leadership roles within the Winners’ Chapel network.

Family values and discipline run deep in the Oyedepo household. He often emphasizes godliness, education, and purpose as cornerstones of a fulfilling life.

Social Media Presence

Despite being in his seventies, Oyedepo maintains a modern communication style, leveraging social media to extend his reach. His verified accounts include:

• Twitter/X: @DavidOyedepoMin
• Instagram: @davidoyedepomin
• Facebook: David Oyedepo Ministries International

These platforms are used to share inspirational content, teachings, and live service streams, reaching millions across digital platforms.

Awards and Recognition

Over the decades, David Oyedepo has received numerous accolades:

• Honorary Doctorates in Divinity and Education
• Listed among Africa’s most influential pastors
• Recognized for educational contributions through Covenant and Landmark Universities

He is widely considered one of the pioneers of the Pentecostal movement in Nigeria and has been a key figure in the nation’s spiritual and educational transformation.

Estimated Net Worth (as of 2025)

David Oyedepo’s estimated net worth in 2025 is around $180 million. This makes him one of the wealthiest pastors globally. His income streams include:

• Book sales
• Honorariums
• Real estate and educational institutions

The ministry’s vast infrastructure also includes aircraft, publishing houses, and mega properties. Yet, he maintains that his prosperity is purely a result of divine principles.

Impact and Legacy

Oyedepo’s legacy is multifaceted: spiritual leader, educator, author, and philanthropist. The impact of his ministry stretches across generations, not just in Africa, but globally. Whether it’s through church growth, social development, or educational reforms, his imprint is unmistakable.

He’s raised thousands of pastors, built a self-sustaining church economy, and influenced millions through his unwavering focus on faith and purpose.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Who is David Oyedepo?
A: David Oyedepo is a Nigerian pastor, author, and founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide, popularly known as Winners’ Chapel.

Q: How did David Oyedepo start his ministry?
A: He began after receiving a divine vision in 1981 and officially launched Winners’ Chapel the same year.

Q: What is David Oyedepo’s net worth in 2025?
A: His estimated net worth is $180 million, mainly from ministry ventures, books, and educational institutions.

Q: Who are David Oyedepo’s children?
A: He has four children: David Jr., Isaac, Love, and Joyce. David Jr. and Isaac are also pastors.

Q: Is David Oyedepo active on social media?
A: Yes, he has official pages on Twitter/X, Instagram, and Facebook where he shares teachings and ministry updates.

Q: What universities did David Oyedepo establish?
A: Covenant University and Landmark University, both in Nigeria, are major educational arms of his ministry.