Pastor Adeboye at 83: 10 Facts About RCCG's GO Formerly a Mathematics Professor at UNILAG

Pastor Adeboye at 83: 10 Facts About RCCG's GO Formerly a Mathematics Professor at UNILAG

  • Celebrating his 83rd birthday, Pastor Enoch Adeboye stands as a prominent religious leader and the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), overseeing a network of over 40,000 parish-churches in 186 nations
  • Formerly a mathematics professor at the University of Lagos, his journey has been marked by dedication to faith, academic excellence, and significant contributions to society
  • Adeboye's life and ministry exemplify the scripture Zechariah 4:10, "Do not despise these small beginnings"

Celebrating his 83rd birthday, Pastor Enoch Adeboye stands as a prominent religious leader and the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).

From a humble beginning in Ifewara, Osun State, to overseeing a global network of churches, Pastor Adeboye’s journey has been marked by dedication to faith, academic excellence, and significant contributions to society.

General Overseer of RCCG celebrates his 83rd birthday, from a maths professor to global religious leader, his journey highlights significant contributions to faith.
10 facts about Pastor Adeboye who turned 83 in 2025. Photo credit: EAdeboye website
Source: UGC

Global network and influence

Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), oversees a network of over 40,000 parish-churches in 186 nations worldwide. In the United States, there are over 600 RCCG branches, with the largest concentrations in Maryland, Texas, Illinois, California, and Washington D.C.

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Academic and spiritual journey

Formerly a mathematics professor at the University of Lagos, Nigeria, Pastor Adeboye began his journey with RCCG by translating the founder's sermons from Yoruba to English. Born on March 2, 1942, into a humble family in Ifewara, Osun State, Nigeria, Adeboye's early teachers recognised his scholarly potential.

Despite his family's poverty, his parents supported his ambition by selling possessions and borrowing from neighbours.

Educational achievements

Adeboye pursued higher education with dedication, earning a Bachelor's degree in Mathematics from the University of Ife in 1967, a Master's degree in Hydrodynamics from the University of Lagos in 1969, and a Doctorate in Applied Mathematics from the same university in 1975. His initial goal was to become the youngest University President in Africa.

Transition to ministry

In 1967, Adeboye married Foluke Adenike Adeboye (nee Adeyokunnu). His spiritual journey took a significant turn in 1973 when his daughter fell ill, leading him to seek divine healing at a parish of RCCG. On July 29, 1973, Adeboye committed to Christ through Reverend Josiah Olufemi Akindayomi, the founder of RCCG.

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Rise to leadership

Ordained as a pastor in 1977, Adeboye demonstrated a passion for ministry by pioneering Bible study meetings, crusades, and evangelistic programmes. In 1981, upon Reverend Akindayomi's passing, Adeboye was divinely appointed as General Overseer, marking the end of his academic career.

Phenomenal growth of RCCG

Under Adeboye's leadership, RCCG experienced significant growth and success, converting multitudes to Christ. He established "Model Parishes" to reach all societal strata, ensuring that the poor, needy, and downtrodden were not ignored. His compassion for souls has been a hallmark of his ministry.

Recognition and contributions

In 2008, Newsweek magazine recognised Adeboye as one of the world's 50 most influential people. He has written over 60 books, including the widely-read daily devotional manual "Open Heavens." Adeboye's life and ministry exemplify Zechariah 4:10, "Do not despise these small beginnings."

Honours and legacy

Adeboye's counsel has been sought by presidents, and his influence extends across both secular and religious arenas. He has received numerous honorary doctorates from institutions in Nigeria and abroad in recognition of his contributions to humanity. His journey from the son of a peasant farmer to a global religious leader is a testament to his dedication and impact.

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Tinubu celebrates Pastor Adeboye

Legit.ng earlier reported that President Bola Tinubu has extended warm felicitations to Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), as he marks his 83rd birthday.

The President joined family members, spiritual leaders, and the global RCCG community in celebrating the life and legacy of the revered clergyman.

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Source: Legit.ng

Authors:
Basit Jamiu avatar

Basit Jamiu (Current Affairs and Politics Editor) Basit Jamiu is a journalist with more than five years of experience. He is a current affairs and politics editor at Legit.ng. He holds a bachelor's degree from Ekiti State University (2018). Basit previously worked as a staff writer at Ikeja Bird (2022), Associate Editor at Prime Progress (2022), and Staff Writer at The Movee (2018). He is a 2024 Open Climate Fellow (West Africa), 2023 MTN Media Fellow, OCRP Fellow at ICIR, and Accountability Fellow at CJID. Email: basit.jamiu@corp.legit.ng.