Oyedepo urges youths to embrace hard work, shun sports betting

Founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide, Bishop David Oyedepo, has urged young Nigerians to reject sports betting and embrace hard work, discipline and patience as the true path to lasting prosperity.

Speaking on Sunday in Ota, Ogun State, the cleric warned that the growing attraction to sports betting among young people was diverting many from productive pursuits and long-term success.

He said genuine wealth is not built on luck or gambling but through consistent effort, integrity and purposeful living, urging youths to resist the temptation of seeking quick financial rewards.

Oyedepo specifically cautioned against relying on betting platforms as a means of making money, declaring that such habits could rob young people of their potential and derail their destinies.

He acknowledged that the journey to success may appear slow but maintained that the rewards of diligence are more enduring than wealth acquired through shortcuts, adding, “It may be slow, but it’s sure.”

The bishop also reflected on his personal life, recalling that his mother’s faith influenced his decision to become a Christian at the age of 15 and laid the foundation for his life’s journey.

He recounted presenting his mother with a car while she was living in the United States, describing the gesture as a token of gratitude that deeply touched her before her death at the age of 92.

Oyedepo urged young people to reassess their priorities, remain focused on building meaningful lives through faith and perseverance, and avoid choices that could jeopardise their future.