The Nigerian Federal Government has granted approval for the construction of a private airstrip at Canaanland, the headquarters of the Living Faith Church, also known as Winners Chapel. This confirmation came from Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
Canaanland, located in Ota, Ogun State, is the base of operations for the church led by Bishop David Oyedepo. The site also houses Covenant University, one of the prominent private universities in Nigeria. The announcement of the new airstrip was made public by Oyedepo himself during a special service held at Covenant University Chapel on Sunday.
This service, called the Tehillah Night Special Edition, was part of a larger thanksgiving event in honor of Oyedepo, who celebrated his 70th birthday in September. During the event, Oyedepo excitedly shared the news of the government’s approval with the congregation.
“I am sure you will be glad to know that the Federal Government has approved an airstrip for Canaanland,” Oyedepo told the congregation, expressing his enthusiasm about the new development.
According to Oyedepo, the airstrip will significantly enhance his travel plans by allowing him to depart directly from Canaanland without the need to first travel to a conventional airport. He further explained that this would also be beneficial for church members who own private jets, providing them with a convenient place to land and park.
“I won’t need to fly a helicopter to the airport. I can leave from here to wherever I am going. Members with their planes will have where to land and park,” he added.
This airstrip, while private, is expected to facilitate smoother transportation for the church’s leadership and visiting worshippers, particularly during major church events which draw thousands of worshippers from around the world.
Confirming the approval, the minister’s media aide, Tunde Moshood, stated, “Yes, the minister approved the airstrip. It is a private airstrip, and the minister approved it, that I can confirm.”
Oyedepo also used the opportunity to motivate the congregation, particularly the youth, urging them to pursue their God-given purpose. He highlighted Covenant University graduates who are now airline captains, emphasizing how they found their path through faith and determination.
“Won’t you be glad to know that there are some captains who are graduates of Covenant University that fly me? We don’t have an aviation department here, but they found their place in God and went after it,” he said.
