Wealth Profile Of Living Faith Church Worldwide (Winners Chapel)
Living Faith Church Worldwide, popularly known as Winners Chapel, is not just a spiritual institution—it is a formidable economic entity. Since its founding in 1981 by Bishop David Oyedepo, the church has grown from a small Christian gathering in Kaduna into a multinational Christian network with a membership running into the millions and operations spanning over 147 countries.
The wealth of Winners Chapel is reflected not only in financial estimates or assets but also in the scale of its vision, the infrastructure it commands, the educational and humanitarian ventures it spearheads, and its international footprint.
Let’s delve into the detailed wealth profile of this religious and economic powerhouse.
The Origin of a Vision-Driven Empire
Winners Chapel began as a result of a powerful 18-hour vision received by Bishop Oyedepo in May 1981, where he claimed to have heard a divine mandate to "liberate the world from all oppressions of the devil through the preaching of the word of faith." From this spiritual encounter, the Living Faith Church was born. Initially established in Kaduna, Nigeria, the church rapidly expanded and relocated its headquarters to Lagos in 1989 following what Oyedepo described as divine instruction.
Since then, the church’s growth has been exponential, both in spiritual membership and material presence.
Canaanland: Monument of Faith and Wealth
Perhaps the most visible testament to the church’s immense resources is Canaanland, the global headquarters of the ministry. Originally a 530-acre estate in Ota, Ogun State, Canaanland has expanded to cover an astounding 17,000 acres.
The Canaanland complex includes:
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Faith Tabernacle: With a 50,000-seat capacity, this auditorium was once the world’s largest church building. Completed in under 12 months in 1999, its construction was fully funded by church members and partners.
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Covenant University: A prestigious private university known for academic excellence, Covenant University is among the top-ranked institutions in Nigeria and Africa.
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Faith Academy: A mission-run boarding school with over 1,500 students, offering high-quality education within a Christian framework.
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Kingdom Heritage Model Schools: Primary schools offering foundational education steeped in Christian values.
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Industrial and Commercial Ventures: Canaanland also houses a water bottling plant, bakery, fuel station, shopping malls, restaurants, and residential quarters for over 2,000 full-time staff.
This multifaceted infrastructure represents billions of naira in value and requires a robust and well-coordinated administrative structure to operate seamlessly.
Financial Estimates and Assets
While Living Faith Church Worldwide does not release public financial statements, various third-party estimates place the church’s total assets in the billions of naira. According to Forbes, Bishop Oyedepo is one of the richest pastors in the world, with an estimated personal net worth of over $150 million.
The church is also believed to own:
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At least four private jets, including a Gulfstream V reportedly worth $30 million.
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Real estate assets in key locations, including London, the U.S., and across Nigeria.
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A fleet of mission vehicles, state-of-the-art sound and media equipment, and a printing press (Dominion Publishing House) that has produced millions of books globally.
Despite these material holdings, the church maintains that all its acquisitions are funded through tithes, offerings, and freewill donations from its members, without borrowing.
Education: Building Wealth Through Knowledge
Winners Chapel has made strategic and massive investments in education, which serves both spiritual and socioeconomic purposes.
1. Covenant University
Ranked among Nigeria's best, this university offers top-tier programs in engineering, social sciences, and humanities. The institution is known for producing graduates who excel in entrepreneurship and leadership.
2. Landmark University
Another top private university established by the church, Landmark University in Omu Aran, Kwara State, focuses on agriculture and food security, aligning with the ministry’s broader vision of impacting society holistically.
3. Faith Academy and Kingdom Heritage Model Schools
These institutions cater to secondary and primary education respectively and are located across Nigeria. They are structured to deliver affordable and faith-based learning to thousands of students annually.
These schools and universities generate revenue through tuition fees, but more importantly, they serve as long-term social investments—preparing the next generation of professionals with Christian ethics and academic excellence.
Publishing and Media Outreach
Living Faith Church owns Dominion Publishing House, founded in 1992. It is the exclusive publisher of all books written by Bishop Oyedepo, including bestsellers like Understanding Financial Prosperity and Winning Prayer. Over 100 book titles have been published and distributed worldwide.
Through this arm, the church not only spreads its doctrines but also generates significant revenue.
In addition, the church operates:
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A 24/7 television network—Dominion TV—broadcasting sermons and church events.
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A strong online presence with live streaming on YouTube, church websites, and social media platforms.
This media infrastructure further expands its reach and multiplies its influence, attracting new members and supporters.
Global Expansion and Church Network
Winners Chapel is present in over 147 countries, including the United Kingdom, the United States, United Arab Emirates, Kenya, South Africa, and more. Its international network includes thousands of branches that are largely self-sustaining financially but contribute to the central body.
In cities like Houston, London, and Johannesburg, the church owns or leases large buildings, indicating a high level of financial commitment to international missions.
This global reach not only enhances its spiritual mission but also increases its asset base and donation pool across continents.
Philanthropy and Community Impact
Beneath its massive infrastructure and perceived affluence, the church also maintains a commitment to philanthropy. Some of its most notable humanitarian projects include:
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Scholarships and Educational Grants: Thousands of students have benefited from the church’s scholarship programs, especially indigent students from rural communities.
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Medical Outreach Programs: Periodic medical camps and clinics are organized for underserved communities.
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Welfare Ministries: The church supports widows, orphans, and displaced individuals through direct aid and empowerment programs.
Moreover, during crises—such as the COVID-19 pandemic—the church donated medical supplies and food relief materials across Nigerian states.
Organizational Structure and Financial Management
Winners Chapel operates a well-defined administrative hierarchy. With departmental heads overseeing finance, human resources, missions, and communication, the church's operations are run like a corporate entity. Financial oversight is handled by trained professionals, and it is widely believed that strict internal audits are conducted to maintain accountability.
Furthermore, the church’s principles discourage indebtedness, and Bishop Oyedepo often preaches about financial independence and operating “debt-free.” The church is reputed to run all of its multi-billion naira projects without taking loans—a rare feat in today’s religious or corporate world.
Conclusion: A Wealth Rooted in Vision and Discipline
Living Faith Church Worldwide (Winners Chapel) is a shining example of how vision, faith, and strategic planning can lead to sustained influence and wealth. With its expansive real estate, academic institutions, publishing network, healthcare initiatives, and worldwide church branches, Winners Chapel is more than a religious organization—it is an economic and social force.
Unlike many organizations that crumble under the weight of rapid expansion, the church has maintained organizational discipline, fiscal prudence, and a clear mission. These attributes have made it not only one of the wealthiest churches in Nigeria but also one of the most impactful.
In the years to come, Winners Chapel’s wealth may grow even more—not just in finances or properties—but in transformed lives, educated minds, and global evangelism.
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