When you hear the word Winners Chapel, the first name that comes to most people’s minds is that of the founder of the church, Bishop David Oyedepo, followed by Bishop David Olatunji Abioye, the first Vice Chairman of Living Faith Church Worldwide (Winners Chapel). He was also the Senior Pastor of Living Faith Church in Goshen City. In this report, we focus extensively on Bishop Abioye’s life, his steadfast commitment to his calling, and the new path he has embarked after his retirement from the winner’s chapel, offering insights into servant leadership and the evolution of ministry in contemporary times.
Bishop David Abioye Early Life and Calling
Born on 11 March 1961, in Erin Ile, Oyun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Nigeria, David Abioye pursued mechanical engineering at the University of Ilorin. His initial career as a lecturer at Open Cast Polytechnic in Auchi was promising, yet a pivotal encounter with Bishop David Oyedepo at a Christian Students’ Fellowship in the 1980s redirected his path. This meeting ignited a passion for ministry, leading him to abandon his engineering aspirations and commit fully to spiritual service. In October 2024, at the age of 63, Bishop Abioye retired from his official duties following a policy revision that set the retirement age for church leaders at 55. Despite stepping down from his administrative role, he emphasized the continuation of his covenant relationship with Bishop Oyedepo and the church community.
Launching a New Ministry
Contrary to initial statements about not starting a new church, Bishop Abioye announced the commencement of his own ministry in April 2025. The inaugural service was held on 4 May 2025, drawing a massive turnout and signaling a new chapter in his spiritual journey. The ministry, characterized by its non-denominational approach, aims to continue his mission of spreading the gospel and nurturing faith communities.
Core Values and Teachings
Bishop Abioye’s ministry is deeply rooted in principles of faith, integrity, and servant leadership. His teachings often emphasize:
- Faith and Prayer: Encouraging believers to develop a personal relationship with God through consistent prayer and unwavering faith.
- Integrity: Upholding moral and ethical standards in both personal and public life.
- Servant Leadership: Leading by example, with humility and a focus on serving others.
- Empowerment: Inspiring individuals to realise their potential and contribute positively to society.
His literary contributions, including books like “The Lifestyle of Faith” and “Stewardship: The Pathway to Honour,” reflect these themes and have been instrumental in guiding many in their spiritual growth.
Family Life: The Foundation of His Ministry
Bishop Abioye married to Pastor Mary Abioye, a devoted partner in both life and ministry. Their union, spanning over 36 years, has been a testament to mutual respect, shared vision, and unwavering commitment to God’s work.
Together, they have three children: David Jr., Ruth, and Daniel. Each child has embraced the values instilled by their parents, contributing to various facets of ministry and society. Notably, in 2021, all three children got married within a span of 202 days, a milestone that was celebrated widely within their community.
Pastor Mary Abioye’s role extends beyond that of a supportive spouse; she is an accomplished minister in her own right. Her teachings and writings have inspired many, particularly in areas concerning women’s roles in the church and family. The couple’s partnership exemplifies a harmonious blend of shared purpose and individual calling.
Impact and Legacy
Bishop Abioye’s influence extends beyond the pulpit. His commitment to community development, education, and mentorship has left an indelible mark on countless lives. Under his leadership, the Goshen City church became a hub for spiritual nourishment and social empowerment.
His decision to launch a new ministry post-retirement demonstrates a continued dedication to his calling and a desire to adapt to the evolving needs of the faith community. It also underscores the importance of planning for transitions in leadership within religious organisations. As he embarks on this new phase of ministry, his legacy serves as a testament to the enduring impact of servant leadership and the transformative power of unwavering commitment to one’s calling.
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