Founder of the Living Faith Church Worldwide, popularly known as Winners Chapel, Bishop David Oyedepo, has announced the Federal Government’s approval for the construction of an airstrip at Faith Tabernacle in Canaanland, Ota, Ogun State. The project, aimed at enhancing transportation logistics for the church, will enable Oyedepo and others to fly directly from the church premises.
Speaking during the Sunday service, the prominent cleric revealed that the new airstrip would allow him to bypass regular airports. “I am sure you will be glad to know that the Federal Government has approved an airstrip for Canaanland,” Oyedepo said. “I won’t need to fly a helicopter to the airport anymore. I can leave from here to wherever I’m going. Members with their planes will have somewhere to land and park.”
The announcement has generated a flurry of reactions on social media, sparking debate over the government’s decision. Many Nigerians expressed concern over the approval, questioning the necessity of an airstrip for a religious institution. Twitter user @Atandalukman_ commented, “Why would FG even allow him to have an airstrip in his church? Who is he???”
Some online users supported the development, pointing out potential benefits for the community and the church’s operations. One user, @_klassy, noted, “If this is legal, it means not just himself, many other people can leave from there. Does it meet FAA regulations? Environmental and safety regulations? If it does and would help develop the community, then it’s okay.”
Others, however, voiced concerns over the evolving role of church leaders in Nigerian society, with user @Stanzigar stating, “These pastors have turned the value system of Christianity on its head. Jesus is the only God who died as a slave… Sad!”
In a lighter tone, some social media users joked about the ambitious nature of the development. One such user, @TheUntamable1, tweeted, “What does it take to have a private airstrip? It’s in my pipeline of dreams too! Congratulations, Papa.”
The approval for the airstrip has sparked debate on both sides, highlighting the intersection between religion, governance, and the societal role of influential religious figures like Bishop Oyedepo. As the project moves forward, questions surrounding regulatory compliance and community impact will likely remain key points of discussion.