Nigerian Bishop David Oyedepo Vows to Build 1,000 Churches as Lifelong Commitment

By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu

Bishop David Oyedepo, founder of the Living Faith Church Worldwide, has announced that he made a personal vow to construct 1,000 churches before the end of his life.

Addressing his congregation at the church’s headquarters in Ota, Ogun State, Oyedepo revealed that the pledge was made long before he ever owned a bank account. He said the commitment reflects a deep personal conviction and dedication to the expansion of the Christian faith.

“Before I ever handled money or opened an account, I made a promise to God,” he said. “I told Jesus that if He ever blessed me, I would use part of those blessings to build churches.”

Now regarded as one of Africa’s most influential religious leaders, Oyedepo’s ministry—commonly known as Winners Chapel—has grown into a global network with thousands of branches across Nigeria and abroad. Yet, he said his work is far from finished.

“I don’t want to get to heaven without having built a thousand churches in His name,” he stated. “It’s not about money—it’s about meaning.”

Oyedepo also urged members of his church to examine their own roles in community service and religious growth, encouraging them to put their unused resources to good use.

“Some people have vehicles they don’t use on Sundays, yet they won’t offer a ride to others who need to get to church,” he remarked. “It’s not a matter of affordability. It’s a matter of willingness.”