By Olayinka Latona

Continental Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) Continent 3—covering South-West Nigeria and parts of the Middle East—Pastor Johnson Odesola recently marked his 66th birthday. Born into humble beginnings, his life took a divine turn after a transformative encounter with Christ, which led him into full-time ministry.

In this exclusive interview with Vanguard, Pastor Odesola shares insights from over four decades of ministry, his approach to health and service, thoughts on national insecurity, and the evolving role of the church in a changing world.

Reflecting on how he balances family, ministry, and personal well-being, Odesola emphasized discipline and simplicity. “I sleep about four hours a night but ensure my body gets what it needs,” he said. “I drink water often and eat only when I’m hungry—usually once a day.”

He believes emotional health is just as critical as physical well-being. “Bitterness and unforgiveness age people quickly,” he noted. “Staying healthy isn’t just about diet or exercise—it’s also about keeping your heart light.”

Odesola keeps active through daily walks, which also serve as moments of prayer. Despite his busy schedule, he makes time for social engagements and hobbies like football and table tennis. “Ministry is not a prison sentence. Even Jesus attended a wedding (John 2). No pastor should be ‘too spiritual’ to live life fully.”

The cleric did not mince words when addressing the state of insecurity in Nigeria, particularly in the North. “Let’s stop deceiving ourselves—what’s sustaining Nigeria today is prayer, not government,” he declared.

He accused some elements of turning security into a business venture. “Security has been turned into merchandise. Huge funds are allocated, yet the crisis persists. Nigerians are right to be concerned.”

However, he expressed hope through faith, commending Pastor Enoch Adeboye’s persistent intercession for the nation. “The same God who did miracles in Bible times can still turn Nigeria around. That’s our hope.”

Pastor Odesola welcomes criticism—whether constructive or harsh. “There’s always something to learn from it. My academic background has taught me that criticism, when rightly interpreted, leads to growth,” he said.

Having joined RCCG in 1974 and taken on leadership roles since 1989, Pastor Odesola sees his journey as one of obedience. He recalled a pivotal moment in 1984 when he was ready to launch his own ministry at age 25.

“During a 21-day fast, I had a vision of holding a blueprint for a tower. A man told me, ‘God hasn’t called you to build your own. Follow Pastor Adeboye—help him succeed, and your success lies there.’ That vision changed everything.”

He emphasized that his calling was never about titles or personal glory but serving a divine purpose. “There’s only one leader in any mission. A vehicle can’t have two drivers. We must support our leaders without grudges.”

On issues like gender identity and evolving youth culture, Pastor Odesola urged compassion over condemnation. “People come with wounds and confusion. We don’t judge—we don’t know their journey. The church must be a place of healing.”

He advocates a message of transformation: “Come as you are, but don’t stay as you are.” He believes the gospel, when preached in truth and love, leads to visible transformation over time.

“The Word of God doesn’t change. It speaks across generations. Trends will come and go, but the gospel remains timeless and powerful.”

As Pastor Odesola reflects on his 66 years of life and over 40 years in ministry, his message is clear: faithful service, unwavering hope, and love-driven truth remain the pillars of both spiritual leadership and national restoration.