The Chancellor of Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State, Dr David Oyedepo, has declared that the institution will continue to advance towards becoming a globally recognised university comparable to Harvard University in the United States.

Oyedepo made the declaration on Thursday during the university’s 24th Founder’s Day Anniversary Thanksgiving, where he reaffirmed its ambition to become an institution of global preference through academic excellence, research, innovation and character development.

He expressed confidence that the university’s progress would not be hindered, attributing its development to its founding vision and spiritual foundation.

“This is God’s own new-generation Harvard,” he said, expressing optimism that the institution would attract students and recognition from across Nigeria and other parts of the world.

Reflecting on the university’s establishment in 2002, Oyedepo recalled an encounter he said he had with God on February 12 that year at NICON Hotel in Abuja, which he described as confirmation of the institution’s ownership and future.

He said the university had experienced growth in student enrolment, staff recruitment and international recognition since its establishment, adding that its founding principles remained central to its long-term ambitions.

The chancellor urged students, known as Covenant Eagles, to combine academic achievement with discipline, sound moral values and spiritual development. He said the institution’s purpose extended beyond awarding degrees to producing graduates capable of demonstrating leadership, integrity and excellence in their professions.

Earlier, the Pro-Chancellor, Pastor Faith Oyedepo, highlighted the introduction of new academic programmes, including Law, Medicine, Pharmacy and Mechatronics, as part of efforts to expand the university’s contribution to higher education and professional development.

She also emphasised the importance of gratitude in recognising institutional progress and the contributions of those who sustain it.

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Timothy Anake, said the university’s performance in national, regional and international rankings reflected its commitment to academic standards, research and the development of globally competitive graduates.

He commended the chancellor, pro-chancellor, faculty, staff, students and alumni for their contributions to the institution’s growth and increasing international visibility.

The anniversary celebration, held under the theme “Seven Hidden Treasures of Thanksgiving,” provided an opportunity for the university community to reflect on its development and renew its commitment to academic excellence, innovation and leadership formation.