The Founder and General Overseer, Living Faith Church Worldwide and Chancellor of Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State, Bishop David Oyedepo, has reiterated his strong belief in the power of Nigerians to fix the socio-economic challenges currently confronting the nation.
According to the Bishop, the fact that his church is globally recognised as the single church with largest congregation and with the largest single church auditorium, is an indication of greater things to come from the country.
The respected cleric made the call at the university’s 15th matriculation ceremony, where a total of 2,162 students were matriculated for both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.
Oyedepo told the newly matriculated students to aspire to join the army of youths already prepared to lead the much anticipated change in the country and the continent of Africa, saying the hallmark of the ivory tower are the discipline, doggedness and commitment of both the staff and students, to liberate the people from the shackles of unemployment, illiteracy and backwardness.
He said, “As long as you continue to seek relevance, you don’t lose significance. Relevance should be the driving force behind everyman and I urge you all to seek relevance through hard work and commitment.
“In my life, no one has ever written my speeches or books for me. I write and edit them. I do this in spite of my very busy schedule. At least within the last three months, I have been visiting two nations per week, yet, I don’t let myself down in the business of writing. I have already commenced the writing of my Leadership Volumes. You need to work hard and be spiritually engaged to excel. That is the only thing that can guarantee your success.”
Guest lecturer at the event and former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Oyewusi Ibidapo-Obe, advised the students to remain focused and think of problems they could generate solutions for.
Ibidapo-Obe, who spoke on the theme: Attaining Global Relevance and National Socio-Economic Advancement through University Education, commended the staff and management of the institution for doing the nation proud through what he described as excellent performances at both national and international competitions.
The university’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Aaron-Anthony Atayero, promised new intakes exciting experiences throughout their stay on the campus, but cautioned them against flouting the university’s rules and regulations.
PUNCH
