True leadership begins with service, Oyedepo tells leaders, youth

By Vera Wisdom-Bassey

The founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide, Bishop David Oyedepo, has urged world leaders, pastors, business owners, and Nigerian youth to awaken to their full potential and pursue greatness through service, humility, and dedication.

He made the call at The Shift Conference Lagos, a one-day gathering organised by Eden Kingdom Ministry at the Banquet Hall of the National Theatre, Lagos, which drew thousands of participants from across Nigeria as well as many countries, including Kenya, Ghana, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Rwanda.

Speaking on leadership and purpose, the cleric emphasised that genuine leadership begins with service and commitment rather than titles or positions.

“Real servants become great leaders. Pastors are not called to be lords over the servants but servants themselves. God rewards diligence and labour, not status.

“God does not reward leaders but labourers. God does not reward founders of churches but labourers. He keeps past records of our service and our labour of love,” Oyedepo stated.

Drawing from biblical teachings, he urged participants to remain steadfast in their assignments, stressing that dedication to service is critical for lasting impact.

He also reflected on his personal faith journey, revealing that he has walked with God for over five decades.

“I have known the Lord for 52 years, and God keeps records of our services. Jesus pays His own labourers,” he said.

He also encouraged believers to intentionally choose whom they serve and remain focused on continual growth despite challenges.

According to him, the theme of the conference represents a spiritual and personal transition towards higher levels of purpose.

“As we continue to move towards the day Jesus will return, there will be shifts from one realm of glory to another,” he said.

The preacher further told participants that every individual carries divine potential, describing believers as a ‘royal generation’ destined for impact. He advised participants to prioritise service over the pursuit of material blessings.

Convener of the conference, Akin Akinpelu, said the gathering was designed to provide spiritual alignment, renewal, and direction for emerging leaders.