In a demonstration of love and admiration, the Omu-Aran community of Kwara State, alongside neighbouring Igbomina towns, gathered to celebrate the 70th birthday of one of their most illustrious sons, Dr. David Oyedepo, Chancellor of Landmark University, Omu-Aran. The grand reception, which took place on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, at the Omu-Aran City Hall, was presided over by His Royal Majesty, Oba Abdulraheem Oladele Adeoti, the Olomu of Omu-Aran. 

The celebration was not just a birthday event but a celebration of the lasting legacy of a man who has dedicated his life to serving both his community and humanity at large. The honour is also a validation of the Chancellor’s unwavering commitment to the well-being of others.

The event brought together a diverse crowd of well-wishers, friends, and community leaders, all eager to pay tribute to a man whose life and work have profoundly impacted not only their community but the entire nation and beyond. The hall resonated with the joyful sound of traditional dances, songs, and heartfelt tributes as the community offered thanksgiving to God for Dr. Oyedepo’s life. They hailed him as a leader, pathfinder, philanthropist, and a beacon of hope.

In his goodwill message, Oba Adeoti praised Dr. Oyedepo as a gift to the world. The monarch emphasized that the Chancellor is not only celebrated on his birthday but is constantly revered for his remarkable contributions. "Dr. Oyedepo is a source of pride for Omu-Aran and a treasure to humanity," Oba Adeoti remarked, underscoring the indelible mark the Chancellor has left on their community.

The President of the Egbe Omo Ibile Igbomina, Elder G. Y. Jimoh, also lauded Dr. Oyedepo for his generosity, particularly in his financial, material, and moral support of the community. Elder Jimoh highlighted the Chancellor’s significant role in establishing Igbomina Radio and his provision of mobility to ensure the smooth operations of the association among others. "Dr. Oyedepo has always been at the forefront of every development in our community," he added.

The President of the Omu-Aran Development Association (ODA), Retired General Abidoye, pushed further the encomium, commending Dr. Oyedepo for building the only City Hall in Omu-Aran, a structure that has since become a symbol of pride for the community. Rtd. Gen. Abidoye also highlighted the Chancellor’s contributions to education, noting that he personally pays the salary of a large number of teachers to support their availability and provides scholarships to countless students, thereby ensuring the growth of education in Omu-Aran.

The leaders of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Kwara State Chapter and the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Omu-Aran chapter, expressed deep gratitude for Dr. Oyedepo’s support of the Christian community. They noted his spiritual leadership and the many projects he had facilitated, such as building a worship sanctuary in the palace and providing an evangelism bus.

Representatives from Landmark University, led by Vice-Chancellor Professor Kolawole Ajanaku, were also in attendance. Professor Ajanaku praised the Chancellor for his unwavering commitment to quality education, noting his investment in world-class facilities and infrastructure at the university. He also expressed gratitude to Pastor Faith Oyedepo, for her steadfast support of the Chancellor’s vision. Other members of the Landmark University delegation included Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor John Ojediran, Registrar Engr Adebayo Ajala, deans, directors, and senior academic staff.

In appreciation for his immense contributions, the various groups presented Dr. Oyedepo with symbolic gifts as tokens of their gratitude. The group of people from the Odo-Oro and Ile-Nla Compounds also made presentations in honour of the Chancellor. 

The Chancellor, in his response, was filled with thanks to God for preserving his life and enabling him to accomplish his numerous endeavours. He also expressed profound gratitude to Oba Adeoti, the Olomu-in-Council, and the sons and daughters of Omu-Aran for their love and support over the years. Dr. Oyedepo encouraged everyone to remain steadfast in their pursuit of God, reminding them that everything achieved was by His grace.