By Daniel Oluwatobiloba Popoola
President Bola Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu have described the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Enoch Adeboye, as “one of our nation’s greatest gifts” as the revered cleric marked his 84th birthday.
In a joint tribute released on Sunday, 1 March,2026 by the State House to commemorate the milestone, the presidential couple explained that they were celebrating a spiritual leader whose life of service has profoundly shaped Nigeria and the global Christian community.
They praised Adeboye, fondly called Daddy G.O., as “a spiritual fortress, interceding for Nigeria and its people to God Almighty,” while also joining his wife, members of the RCCG worldwide and Christians across denominations in thanking God for what they described as an exceptional life of impact that transcends cultures and borders.
Highlighting his personal virtues, the tribute stated: “His humility is genuine, and his wisdom runs deep beyond the ordinary.”
It added that his influence extends well beyond the pulpit.
“His contributions to our nation extend beyond the pulpit, where he ministers to souls, to philanthropy, healthcare, education and economic empowerment,” the statement read.
President Tinubu, according to the tribute, commended the cleric for his “unceasing prayers for our nation” and acknowledged his “patriotic zeal, manifest determination and commitment to Nigeria’s progress.”
The President noted that Adeboye’s consistent intercession for the country has remained a defining feature of his ministry.
Furthermore, the statement recognised the RCCG leader’s unique leadership role over the past five decades, noting that his teachings “continue to shape and transform lives across generations in the country and beyond.” It added,
“As Daddy G.O. celebrates this special day, we pray that God Almighty continue to bless him with good health and strength as he continues his good work in the Lord’s vineyard.”
Born on March 2, 1942, in Ifewara, Osun State, Adeboye holds a doctorate in Applied Mathematics from the University of Lagos.
He joined the RCCG in 1973 and, subsequently, became General Overseer in 1981, succeeding the church’s founder, Josiah Akindayomi.
Under his leadership spanning more than four decades, the RCCG has grown from a small congregation in Lagos into one of the world’s largest Pentecostal denominations, with parishes in over 190 countries.
Its monthly Holy Ghost Service, held at the Redemption Camp along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, regularly attracts millions of worshippers and is widely regarded as one of the largest Christian gatherings globally.
Beyond his pastoral responsibilities, Adeboye has established Redeemer’s University in Ede, Osun State, and has overseen numerous educational and healthcare initiatives through the church’s various foundations, further broadening the church’s social impact.
