President Bola Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu have paid glowing tribute to the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, describing him as one of Nigeria’s greatest gifts as he marks his 84th birthday.
In a joint message issued by the Presidency, the couple hailed Adeboye, widely known as Daddy G.O., as a spiritual fortress whose life of prayer and service has had a profound impact on the nation. They credited him with standing in the gap for Nigeria through decades of intercession, especially in times of uncertainty and national anxiety.
The statement praised Adeboye’s humility and quiet influence, noting that his contributions extend far beyond the pulpit. According to the President and the First Lady, his work in philanthropy, healthcare, education and economic empowerment has touched millions, particularly the poor and vulnerable who benefit from the church’s outreach programmes.
The Tinubus joined Adeboye’s wife, Pastor Folu Adeboye, the global RCCG family and the wider Christian community in thanking God for what they called an exceptional life of impact that transcends cultures and borders. They highlighted his patriotic zeal and unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s progress, pointing to his consistent calls for peace, unity and good governance.
The tribute also underscored Adeboye’s far-reaching spiritual influence. Over more than five decades of ministry, his sermons and teachings have shaped generations of believers, while the RCCG has grown from a modest congregation in Lagos into one of the world’s largest Pentecostal movements, with parishes in over 190 countries.
Born in Ifewara, Osun State, Adeboye earned a doctorate in Applied Mathematics from the University of Lagos before answering the call to full-time ministry. He joined the RCCG in the early 1970s and became General Overseer in 1981, succeeding the founder, Pastor Josiah Akindayomi.
Under his leadership, the church’s sprawling Redemption Camp along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway has become a global centre of worship, hosting monthly Holy Ghost Services that draw vast crowds from within and outside Nigeria.
Beyond the pulpit, Adeboye has championed education and social development, including the establishment of Redeemer’s University in Ede, Osun State, and a network of schools, hospitals and humanitarian initiatives.
As he marks another milestone, the President and First Lady prayed that God would grant Adeboye continued strength and good health to carry on what they described as his enduring labour in the Lord’s vineyard.