Bishop David Oyedepo, founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide, popularly known as Winners Chapel, announced on Sunday that the Federal Government has approved for the construction of an airstrip at Faith Tabernacle in Canaanland, Ota, Ogun State.
This development is expected to enable direct flights from the church premises, significantly simplifying travel for the cleric and his congregation.
In his announcement, Oyedepo expressed enthusiasm about the new facility, stating, “I am sure you will be glad to know that the Federal Government has approved an airstrip for Canaanland. I won’t need to fly a helicopter to the airport anymore. I can leave from here to wherever I’m going. Members with their planes will have somewhere to land and park.”
The news has generated a wave of reactions on social media, with opinions sharply divided. Critics have raised questions about the appropriateness of the government’s decision.
One user, @Atandalukman_, tweeted, “Why would FG even allow him to have an airstrip in his church? Who is he???”
Others echoed concerns about the implications for societal values, with @Stanzigar remarking, “These pastors have turned the value system of Christianity on its head,” referencing the wealth enjoyed by some religious leaders.
Conversely, some users defended the decision, suggesting that if the airstrip meets necessary regulations, it could benefit the community. @Klassy pointed out, “If this is legal, it means not just himself, many other people can leave from there. Does it meet FAA regulations? Environmental and safety regulations? If it does and would help develop the community, then it’s okay.”
A lighter take on the situation came from @TheUntamable1, who humorously expressed a desire to have a similar facility, saying, “What does it take to have a private airstrip? It’s in my pipeline of dreams too! Congratulations, Papa.
I’ve always imagined having my billionaire friends and creating a mini city for ourselves!”
As discussions continue, the approval of the airstrip at Canaanland highlights ongoing debates about the role of wealth in religious institutions and the responsibilities of both faith leaders and government officials in addressing community needs. Whether the airstrip will serve as a positive development for the region or a symbol of excess remains to be seen.
