The founder of the Living Faith Church Worldwide, Bishop David Oyedepo, who serves as the Chancellor and Chairman of the Board of Regents at Covenant University in Ota, Ogun State, emphasized that true African leadership should be seen as an opportunity to provide solutions to societal challenges rather than merely occupying a position. He stressed that searching for solutions externally is not the path to resolving the continent’s problems.
During the 18th convocation ceremony of the university themed “Release of Eagles 2023,” Bishop Oyedepo delivered a speech titled “Looking Ahead.” In his address, he highlighted that leadership goes beyond holding a position; it involves offering solutions. Effective leaders prioritize others, consider the future, and focus on problem-solving. They exhibit creativity and innovation.
He asserted that Africa cannot rely on foreign interests to address its problems and must develop self-reliance. He drew a parallel with plants that solve their problems and obtain what they need in their specific environment. Bishop Oyedepo also emphasized that indigenous knowledge and practices existed before colonialism, and the continent should tap into its rich heritage.
He said: “Leadership is not the position held but the solution provided. Good leaders think about others, they think about the future, they think about solutions to problems among others. They are creative, innovative and are focused.
“You can’t arrive at a future you are not prepared for. No foreign interest will help us find solutions to our problems.
“Plants don’t move from one point to the other, it is where they are that they solve all their problems and get what they need.
“When the colonial masters came, they didn’t meet our forefathers living on trees. It was not the colonial masters that taught out fathers how to cook, take care of their health. They were doing those things before the colonialists arrived.“Out fathers had ways of defending themselves against intruders. That is why in Covenant University we are 99.9 percent indigenous.“Universities should add value to the society and I am happy that Covenant University is doing just that,” Oyedepo said.
Furthermore, Bishop David Abioye, the Pro-Chancellor and the First Vice President of the Living Faith Church Worldwide, encouraged the graduates to start small as it provides a solid foundation for future success. He highlighted the advantages of commencing one’s journey with a strong base.
Prof. Abiodun Adebayo, the Vice Chancellor, shared that a significant number of graduates achieved first-class degrees, marking a record in the university’s history. He also noted that 57 individuals earned doctorate degrees, another milestone for the institution. Covenant University was ranked as the best in Nigeria, the top university in West Africa, and seventh on the African continent by the Times Higher Education (THE) in 2023.
Dr. Chris Mayaiki, the Acting Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), commended the university for its remarkable progress and achievements since its establishment.