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The Founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide, Bishop David Oyedepo, has cautioned Nigerian youths against relying on sports betting as a means of achieving financial success, warning that it could derail their future.
Speaking during a church service on Sunday, the cleric urged young people to reject the temptation of seeking quick wealth through gambling, stressing that lasting prosperity comes through hard work, discipline and patience.
Addressing the congregation, Oyedepo delivered a passionate message on the dangers of betting, describing it as a distraction from purpose.
Oyedepo urges youths to avoid betting
The bishop said, “Young people, naija bet is not the way to financial fortune. Stop wasting your destiny, stop wasting your destiny, Stop wasting your destiny. I have never been once deceived. Stop!”
He also encouraged young Nigerians not to lose hope when success appears delayed, reminding them that genuine progress may take time but remains worthwhile.
Later, he added, “Things may be slow, but it is sure.”
To reinforce his message on faithfulness and gratitude, Oyedepo recounted how he rewarded the woman who led him to Christianity during his teenage years.
The cleric said, “My mother of faith led me to Christ at 15. When I turned 60, I got her a car that they took to her place in the U.S., she wept. You had better wake up.”
Message sparks conversation online
Oyedepo’s remarks have generated reactions on social media, with many Nigerians supporting his call for youths to pursue sustainable sources of income instead of depending on sports betting.
His comments come amid growing concerns from religious leaders, financial experts and social commentators over the increasing popularity of sports betting among young Nigerians and its potential financial and social consequences.
Watch the video below…
“Young people, betting is not the way to financial fortune. Stop wasting your destiny.”
— Pastor Oyedepo to people who play bet.
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— 𝐀𝐬𝐚𝐤𝐲𝐆𝐑𝐍 (@AsakyGRN) July 26, 2026
