In Ogun State’s Canaanland, a giant symbol of faith is almost ready to make history. The Living Faith Church Worldwide—better known as Winners Chapel—is about to unveil “The Ark,” a 100,000-seat megachurch unlike anything seen before.
Led by Bishop David Oyedepo, this project blends bold architecture with deep belief. The question dividing Nigerians is simple: Is this a triumph of faith or a luxury in hard times?
From Vision to Reality
Bishop Oyedepo first dreamed up The Ark in 2015, then called “Faith Theatre.” The plan came from necessity—the current 50,000-seat Faith Tabernacle can no longer hold the church’s growing global congregation. Construction began in March 2021 on a massive 1,000-hectare site in Ota, Ogun State.
The Ark will host over 100,000 people in the main hall and another 100,000+ across its auxiliary spaces, including children’s and teen churches, parking, and foyers. It also features a 24-floor Mission Tower, prayer booths, a Bible school, and even an audio-visual theater.
At ₦160 billion ($200 million), it’s one of the most ambitious faith projects ever seen. With its 318-meter roof—the longest of any church—and a 21-meter foundation, it’s a feat of engineering and devotion.
Nearing Completion
Construction updates show rapid progress. The massive steel roof is nearly done, and the first services are expected to hold on November 29, 2025, during Shiloh 2025.
Oyedepo said: “God is building this because He wants to use it. I will never build what I will not use.” The church insists that no member was pressured for donations; funding comes directly from the ministry’s reserves.
Nigerians React
Social media is split. Supporters hail it as a global symbol of faith and excellence. Critics call it a misuse of wealth in a struggling economy.
Comments range from “This is world-class innovation!” to “Churches build cathedrals, not industries.”
Yet, the project has created thousands of jobs and could become a tourism magnet for Nigeria.
A Symbol and a Challenge
Love or hate it, The Ark proves what Nigerian ambition can achieve. Bishop Oyedepo has already built universities, schools, and outreach programs. This megachurch may be his boldest statement yet—an architectural sermon on faith, vision, and legacy.
As its doors prepare to open, Nigerians will be watching closely. Is it divine inspiration or excess in a time of struggle?
Either way, it’s history in the making.
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