In what could only be described as a miracle, Covenant University has risen from the dust to join the ranks of the world’s most prestigious institutions. The university, founded by renowned Nigerian pastor and businessman, David Oyedepo, has achieved an unimaginable feat in just 15 years—securing its place among the world’s top 1,000 universities.
David Oyedepo recently shared a powerful testimony of how the university’s foundation was laid in faith, with divine guidance every step of the way. The testimony reflects the deep belief in God’s hand in every aspect of the university’s development. Speaking candidly about the establishment of Covenant University, Oyedepo recalled his initial doubts and unwavering trust in God.
“When we got the license to operate Covenant University, everybody was excited. Was I? I’m not sure,” Oyedepo admitted. “I asked the Lord, ‘Lord, tell me if it’s not your university, I’m not interested. I’m not going to school anymore.’” In a moment of divine clarity, Oyedepo heard the voice of God reassuring him: “It is I.”
This simple yet profound declaration became the cornerstone for the university’s rapid and miraculous growth. According to Oyedepo, this moment occurred on February 12, 2002, and within a mere seven months, Covenant University opened its doors to 1,500 students, boasting fully constructed facilities, including two state-of-the-art halls of residence for both male and female students.
“We started clearing the ground for the university on March 6, and by October 21, we had 1,500 students on campus. The buildings were ready. The library was in place. Everything, down to the smallest detail, was completed in just seven months,” Oyedepo reflected. “There were no bungalows or temporary facilities. We didn’t do ‘let’s do something first and do something later.’ Everything was in place. By the hand of God, everything was completed in seven months.”
This incredible feat—achieving what would normally take years—was only the beginning. Covenant University continued to grow rapidly, building on a foundation of excellence, innovation, and faith. Yet, for Oyedepo, there was a critical moment where he felt compelled to surrender the university completely to God’s will.
“When the day came to dedicate the university, the Lord told me, ‘Now hand it over to Me. Now come and see the hand of God at work,’” Oyedepo said. “I asked, ‘How do I hand it over to You?’ and He told me, ‘Lay down flat on this floor before Me.’ So, I laid flat before Him, before all the students, their parents, and the church leaders. I was the maddest person there, but that was the moment of total surrender.”
The symbolic act of laying down in faith marked a turning point for the university, solidifying its divine foundation and confirming its destiny for greatness. From that moment onward, Covenant University embarked on a journey that would see it grow into one of the top institutions in the world.
Now, just 15 years after its foundation, Covenant University is listed among an elite group of only 1,002 universities worldwide, a feat that places it on par with institutions such as Oxford, Harvard, and Yale—universities that have been in existence for centuries. Out of a global pool of over 29,000 universities, Covenant University’s rise is nothing short of extraordinary.
In a recent speech, Oyedepo emphasized the role of God’s hand in this rapid transformation. “In just 15 years, Covenant University has moved from the ground to the top 1,000 universities globally. I’m talking about institutions like Oxford, Harvard, Yale,” he said. “It’s the hand of God, the hand that brings speed. When God’s hand is upon something, it moves fast. That same hand of God that engenders speed is coming on your life.”
The university’s meteoric rise can be attributed to a combination of factors, including Oyedepo’s visionary leadership, unwavering faith, and the divine intervention he believes shaped the institution’s path. Covenant University’s commitment to academic excellence, world-class facilities, and a strong foundation in Christian values has made it a beacon of educational achievement in Nigeria and beyond.
As one of the country’s foremost private universities, Covenant University has set the standard for educational innovation, with a focus on producing graduates who are equipped to lead in both the global marketplace and in their communities. The university has continued to expand its academic offerings, invest in state-of-the-art infrastructure, and foster a learning environment that integrates spiritual growth with intellectual development.
Beyond its academic success, Covenant University has made significant contributions to the Nigerian economy and society. The university has become a hub for research and development, producing innovative solutions to pressing national issues. Covenant’s alumni have gone on to hold leadership positions in various sectors, including business, politics, and entertainment, further cementing the university’s legacy as a transformational institution.
Covenant University’s rise is also seen as a testament to the power of faith and perseverance. In a country like Nigeria, where educational institutions often face significant challenges, Covenant’s rapid success offers hope and inspiration to other institutions striving for excellence. The university has proven that with vision, dedication, and faith, even the impossible can become possible.
Oyedepo’s message is clear: success is not just about hard work or strategy, but about trusting in the divine plan. “It is the hand of God that leads to success,” he said, urging others to surrender their dreams and endeavors to God. “When you allow God to take control, miracles happen.”
As Covenant University celebrates its 15-year anniversary, the institution stands as a beacon of faith, excellence, and divine favor. With God’s hand guiding it every step of the way, the future looks even brighter for this extraordinary institution of higher learning.
