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Social Communications Commission, Catholic Diocese Of Oyo, Catholic Bishop Office, Sawmill Road, Oyo (2026)

15/05/2026

HISTORIC ADVANCEMENT FOR THE RURAL CHURCH AS SUPREME KNIGHT OF ST. MULUMBA VISITS OYO DIOCESE

- Michael Okeola

The Catholic Diocese of Oyo witnessed a historic and deeply significant moment as the Supreme Knight of the Knights of St. Mulumba Nigeria, Sir Steve Zakari Adehi, SAN, led a high-powered delegation on a courtesy visit to the Bishop of Oyo Diocese, Most Rev. Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo.

The visit marked a monumental chapter in the spiritual growth and pastoral development of the rural Church in the Diocese, bringing together distinguished national and metropolitan officers of the Order in an atmosphere filled with fraternity, reverence, and renewed commitment to evangelization and service.

The delegation was warmly received by the Diocese alongside members of the Knights of St. Mulumba. The hosting Grand Knight of the Ibadan Sub-Council, Sir Dr. Theophilus Ajobiewe, formally introduced the visiting dignitaries, including the Metro Grand Knight of Ibadan Metro, Sir Titus Achaolu SAN Supreme Advocate, Sir Engr. Lucas Ajibade Ijasan, Lady Dr. Anthonia Ajobiewe, Sir Dr. Nicholas Dosumu, and other notable officers of the Order.

During the introductions, Bishop Badejo paid glowing tribute to Sir Dr. Theophilus Ajobiewe, describing him as a committed pillar of the Diocese whose dedication and consistency have contributed immensely to the growth of the local Church. The Bishop particularly commended his efforts in recruiting younger members into the Knighthood and remaining steadfast in service to the Church long before his episcopal installation.

Addressing the gathering, Sir Steve Adehi applauded the remarkable level of development within the Diocese, noting that what he encountered far exceeded his expectations for a rural missionary environment. He praised the quality of infrastructure, organization, and pastoral vision evident across the Diocese, describing them as reflections of intentional and visionary leadership.

In what many described as a groundbreaking development, the Supreme Knight announced a special concession by the Supreme Council to facilitate the establishment of a dedicated sub-council in Oyo Diocese. The membership threshold required for the creation of a sub-council was officially reduced from forty to twenty-five members, a move aimed at encouraging growth and strengthening the presence of the Order within rural communities.

The announcement formed part of the Order’s newly declared “Year of Increase,” a national initiative focused on recruiting younger members and revitalizing the charitable and evangelical mission of the Knights of St. Mulumba.

The Supreme Knight further challenged members of the Order to extend their mission beyond urban centers into smaller communities and villages, emphasizing that true Knighthood is rooted in sacrifice and service through the giving of one’s time, treasure, and talent for the advancement of God’s kingdom.

Responding, Bishop Badejo described the visit as a historic pastoral encounter that reassures rural Catholic communities that they remain an important part of the universal Church. Reflecting on the liturgical period between the Ascension and Pentecost, the Bishop urged the Knights to translate their faith into visible acts of support for rural communities where the Church often struggles due to migration and limited resources.

The Bishop stressed that the presence of the Supreme Knight in Oyo sent a powerful message that the “missionary peripheries” are not forgotten, reaffirming that the Knights of St. Mulumba remain a pastorally driven body dedicated to evangelization and the strengthening of the Church everywhere.

He also highlighted the sacrifices and dedication of several local Knights, including Sir Michael Oladokun, whose artistic contributions have beautified numerous parishes, alongside others like Sir Adigun and Sir Ojo, whom he described as ever-ready servants of the Lord.

Following the meeting, the Supreme Knight, Sir Steve Zakari Adehi, SAN, granted an interview where he shared deeper reflections on the Diocese, the mission of the Knights, and the role of young Catholics in the Church today.

Speaking on his impressions of the Diocese, Sir Adehi admitted that the level of development and organization he encountered in Oyo Diocese went far beyond what he initially expected.

“Coming in here, I didn’t expect anything spectacular, but what I saw has exceeded my expectations,” he stated.

He further explained that the structures, quality of development, and organization within the Diocese reflected the intentional leadership and focused mindset of the Bishop.

“The structures, the physical development, and the quality of work here show the quality of mind behind it. The Bishop is organized, focused, and intentional about what he does. I am really impressed with the quality of priests, the development, and everything I have seen around.”

He prayed for God’s continued blessings upon Bishop Badejo and for more faithful collaborators to support the mission of the Diocese.

Speaking on the Knights within the Diocese, the Supreme Knight praised their dedication and willingness to use their gifts in service to the Church.

“As Knights, we are expected to give our time, treasure, and talents in service to the Church.”

He referenced several members highlighted by the Bishop, applauding those who have contributed through their artistic talents, financial support, and active involvement in Church development.

“The artist is using his talent in service of the Church. Sir Anthony Ogunsola who built the Church is using his treasure in service of the Church. Even young people helping in social development are using their time and talents to serve God.”

Sir Adehi noted that the visible commitment of members within the Diocese played a major role in his immediate approval of the concession for the establishment of a sub-council in Oyo.

“This is clearly a place with committed people who are willing to work. Opening a sub-council here will encourage more people to participate and do more for the Church.”

Reflecting on his multiple responsibilities as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Supreme Knight of the Knights of St. Mulumba, and National President of the Papal Knights in Nigeria, Sir Adehi acknowledged the challenges of balancing the various roles but attributed his strength and success entirely to God.

“It is quite challenging, but God has been very helpful. I thank God especially for the gift of good health and wisdom. Everything I do depends on God’s direction.”

Addressing Catholic youths across Nigeria, the Supreme Knight encouraged young people to remain steadfast in their faith and become actively involved in the life and mission of the Church.

“Being Catholic is something I am truly proud of. Anyone who understands the richness and teachings of the Church knows this is the ultimate place to be.”

Sharing his personal journey of serving the Church from a young age, he urged youths to trust completely in God and remain faithful despite the pressures of the modern world.

“There is nothing I have achieved that did not come from God. Young people should put their faith and trust in Him. God never abandons His people.”

The historic visit concluded with renewed hope and commitment among both the visiting leadership and the faithful of Oyo Diocese, as plans for expansion, youth empowerment, and the strengthening of the rural Church continue to gather momentum under the banner of faith, service, and fraternity.

12/05/2026

𝐈𝐧 𝐚 𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐟𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩, 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐩 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐜 𝐃𝐢𝐨𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐎𝐲𝐨, 𝐌𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐑𝐞𝐯. 𝐄𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐮𝐞𝐥 𝐀𝐝𝐞𝐭𝐨𝐲𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐁𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐣𝐨, 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐛𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐩𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐒𝐭. 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐚’𝐬 𝐂𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐝𝐫𝐚𝐥, 𝐀𝐛𝐚𝐤𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐢, 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐕𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐥 𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐁𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐩 𝐏𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐍𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐞 𝐂𝐡𝐮𝐤𝐰𝐮. 𝐀 𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐦𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐩𝐫𝐚𝐲𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐚𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐡𝐮𝐫𝐜𝐡 𝐡𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐬 𝐚 𝐝𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐩𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐝.

10/05/2026

FEARLESS IN FAITH: REV. FR. JOACHIM ALADE CHARGES CATHOLIC WOMEN TO EMBRACE THE COMFORTER AT SEMINAR FINALE

- Michael Okeola

The 2026 Annual Seminar of the Catholic Women Organization of Nigeria came to a joyful and spiritually uplifting conclusion with a solemn closing Mass held at St. Peter Catholic Church. After several days of worship, learning, reflection, and fellowship, delegates gathered one final time to receive blessings and a renewed missionary mandate as they prepared to return to their various parishes and communities.

Delivering the closing homily, Rev. Fr. Joachim Alade offered words of encouragement centered on hope, faith, and the enduring presence of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. He reminded the women that because Jesus Christ lives forever, Christians should not live in fear of evil, uncertainty, or the challenges of life.

Reflecting on the promise of the Holy Spirit, Fr. Alade described the Spirit as the Comforter, Counselor, and Helper given by Christ to guide believers through life’s difficulties and responsibilities. He explained that the same Spirit that strengthened the Apostles in the early Church remains active today, especially in the lives of those who strive for holiness and faithfulness.

The cleric urged members of the CWO to remain closely aligned with the Holy Spirit in order to receive divine wisdom, strength, and guidance necessary for family life, community service, and their mission within the Church. According to him, genuine love remains the greatest pathway to experiencing the fullness of the Holy Spirit, stressing that love must be reflected within families, communities, and among members of the organization itself.

Following the liturgy, the Diocesan CWO President, Mrs. Dorcas Taiwo Adeyemi expressed heartfelt appreciation to all delegates for their active participation and commitment throughout the seminar. She specially thanked the members of St. Peter Catholic Church and the CWO members of Saki Deanery for their warm hospitality and dedication as hosts of the event.

Mrs. Adeyemi also extended profound gratitude to the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Oyo, Most Rev. Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo, for his continuous fatherly guidance and support for the organization. She further appreciated the priests who ministered during the seminar, including Rev. Fr. Anthony Adepoju, Rev. Fr. Joachim Alade, Rev. Fr. Peter Ojeniyi, Rev. Fr. Leonard Ajereola, and Rev. Fr. Matthew Olom Ijuo for their spiritual guidance and impactful teachings throughout the gathering.

In his closing remarks, Very Rev. Fr. Anthony Adepoju reiterated gratitude to all who contributed to the success of the seminar and introduced the “YOUCAT” youth catechism initiative promoted by the Bishop. He encouraged parents and guardians to embrace the resource as an important tool for strengthening the faith formation of younger generations.

Fr. Adepoju also commended the social communications team for their dedication in documenting and covering the seminar activities from beginning to end.

The seminar concluded in an atmosphere of thanksgiving, celebration, and renewed spiritual strength as participants departed Igbeti physically refreshed, spiritually empowered, and ready to continue their mission as indispensable collaborators in the work of the Church.

09/05/2026

ARCHITECTS OF FAITH AND WELLNESS: OYO DIOCESAN CWO SEMINAR BRIDGES SPIRITUAL MISSION WITH HEALTH AWARENESS

- Michael Okeola

The second day of the 2026 Annual Seminar of the Catholic Women Organization of Nigeria continued with a rich blend of spiritual reflection, academic engagement, cultural celebration, and health awareness as delegates gathered in Igbeti to deepen their commitment to faith, service, and community development.

Following the morning liturgical activities, the seminar transitioned into a series of keynote addresses and educational sessions aimed at strengthening the women in their roles within the Church and society. Delivering opening charges, the Diocesan CWO Chaplain, Very Rev. Fr. Anthony Adepoju, alongside the representative of the Bishop, Rev. Fr. Joachim Alade, reflected on the biblical identity of Christians as the “salt of the earth.” They reminded participants that Catholic women are called to preserve values, spread light, and bring peace and joy into their families, parishes, and communities.

The clergy encouraged the women to become agents of transformation whose presence inspires harmony, healing, and hope. They stressed that a true Catholic woman should radiate happiness, promote unity, and serve as a source of encouragement in every environment she encounters.

A major highlight of the afternoon session was a comprehensive presentation delivered by Rev. Fr. Matthew Olom Ijuo on the theme, “Catholic Women: Indispensable Collaborators in the Mission of the Church.” In his address, Fr. Ijuo explored the historical and spiritual significance of women in both society and the Church, emphasizing that the Church has continually upheld the dignity, equality, and importance of women throughout history.

Describing women as the “backbone of the Church,” Fr. Ijuo drew inspiration from biblical figures such as Mary Magdalene, Lydia, and Phoebe to demonstrate the enduring role of women in evangelization and ministry. He noted that women remain indispensable in charitable works, family formation, discipleship, and cultural evangelization.

Fr. Ijuo further urged participants to embrace spiritual discipline, humility, and hospitality while warning against attitudes capable of weakening unity within the organization and the Church. He identified unhealthy competition, gossip, and excessive commitments as some of the “enemies of peace” that can hinder effective service in God’s vineyard.

Adding color and excitement to the seminar, the Catholic Women Organization of Nigeria, Saki Zone thrilled delegates with a vibrant welcome song presentation. Their energetic and soulful performance created an atmosphere of celebration and sisterhood, reinforcing the unity and communal spirit that characterize the organization.

The seminar also shifted focus toward physical wellness with an important medical lecture delivered by Dr. Olayinka on the dangers of Hepatitis B. During the session, Dr. Olayinka described the disease as a silent but dangerous health challenge capable of leading to severe liver complications, including liver cancer, when left untreated.

He clarified common misconceptions surrounding the virus, explaining that it is not spread through casual social contact such as hugging or sharing meals, but can be transmitted through infected sharp objects, unscreened blood procedures, and unprotected exposure. Stressing that prevention remains the most effective defense, he encouraged the women to prioritize regular screening and complete the recommended three-dose vaccination regimen for long-term protection.

At the conclusion of the sessions, the Diocesan CWO President, Mrs. Dorcas Taiwo Adeyemi expressed appreciation to the speakers for their impactful contributions. She commended Rev. Fr. Matthew Olom Ijuo for his insightful theological presentation and thanked Dr. Olayinka for delivering practical and life-saving health education. According to her, the knowledge shared during the sessions fulfilled the vision of the seminar by equipping the women with spiritual wisdom and practical tools capable of transforming their homes, parishes, and communities.

09/05/2026

STEADFAST IN FAITH AND SERVICE: OYO DIOCESAN CWO COMMENCES DAY TWO OF ANNUAL SEMINAR WITH SPIRITUAL RENEWAL

- Michael Okeola

The second day of the 2026 Annual Seminar of the Catholic Women Organization of Nigeria commenced on a deeply spiritual note in Igbeti, as delegates gathered in an atmosphere of prayer, worship, and renewed commitment to their mission within the Church.

The day began with the Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament led by Rev. Fr. Peter Ojeniyi, setting a reflective tone for the activities ahead. This was followed by the official opening Mass, attended by members of the clergy and delegates from across the diocese. Representing the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Oyo, Most Rev. Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo, was Rev. Fr. Joachim Alade. Also present were the Diocesan CWO Chaplain, Rev. Fr. Anthony Adepoju, alongside Rev. Fr. Peter Ojeniyi.

Delivering the homily, Fr. Ojeniyi emphasized the importance of unwavering discipleship and total commitment to Christ. He reminded the women that following Jesus means choosing to walk continually in the light of God and living lives rooted in holiness and obedience. According to him, although the Christian journey may come with trials and opposition, believers must remain courageous and never retreat from their faith.

Referencing the words of St. Paul, Fr. Ojeniyi assured the congregation that no force can prevail against those who stand firmly with God. He further strengthened his message with the assurance found in Jeremiah 1:19, declaring that while the faithful may face battles in the world, they will never be overcome because God remains constantly with them. He encouraged the women to remain steadfast in service, drawing inspiration from the life of the Blessed Virgin Mary and keeping their focus on the eternal reward promised by God.

At the close of the Mass, Rev. Fr. Anthony Adepoju expressed appreciation to the Bishop for his continued fatherly support and acknowledged Rev. Fr. Joachim Alade for representing the Bishop’s office at the seminar. He also commended Rev. Fr. Peter Ojeniyi and Rev. Sr. Assumpta-Mary Taiwo for their dedication and contributions toward the growth of the organization.

Special recognition was equally given to the drivers who ensured the safe transportation of delegates, as well as members of the social communications team for their commitment to media coverage and documentation of the seminar activities. Fr. Adepoju specifically appreciated Rev. Fr. John Irekiigbe for granting permission to Media Officer Michael Okeola to provide on-ground coverage of the event.

The session concluded with a heartfelt charge to the women to preserve the spiritual lessons and inspiration gained from the day’s activities, ensuring that the fire of faith ignited during the seminar continues to shine brightly in their homes, parishes, and communities.

08/05/2026

WOMEN AS INDISPENSABLE COLLABORATORS IN BUILDING GODLY HOMES: OYO DIOCESE CWO OPENS 2026 SEMINAR

- Michael Okeola

The Catholic Women Organization of Nigeria Oyo Diocese on Friday, May 8, officially commenced its 2026 Annual Seminar at St. Mary Catholic Schools, drawing delegates and members from different parts of the diocese to the ancient town of Igbeti for a spiritually enriching gathering focused on faith, family, and service to the Church.

The seminar opened with an atmosphere filled with excitement, devotion, and sisterhood as delegates arrived and completed their registration. Delivering the opening address, the Diocesan CWO President, Mrs. Dorcas Taiwo Adeyemi, warmly welcomed participants and encouraged them to actively engage in every aspect of the seminar. She emphasized that the annual gathering should go beyond a routine assembly, urging members to prioritize both their spiritual and personal well-being throughout the program while ensuring they return home spiritually renewed and practically enriched for the benefit of their families and communities.

A major highlight of the opening day was a thought provoking presentation delivered by Rev. Fr. Joachim Taiwo Alade on the theme, “Building Godly Homes: Raising Disciples and Nurturing Vocations in the Digital Age.” In his address, Fr. Alade described mothers and parents as builders of faith and custodians of the future, stressing that the family remains the first school, the first church, and the domestic seminary where the moral and spiritual foundations of children are formed.

Speaking on the challenges posed by modern technology and digital culture, Fr. Alade warned that many homes have gradually allowed digital distractions to overshadow spiritual growth. He urged parents to intentionally reclaim their homes as places of prayer, reflection, and Christian witness. According to him, children are shaped more by the actions they observe than by verbal instructions, noting that the simple acts of seeing parents pray together, forgive one another, and practice humility can leave lasting impressions of holiness and Christian living.

Fr. Joachim further encouraged families to normalize participation in the sacraments, family prayers, and spiritual conversations within the home. He also advised families to establish a “Digital Rule” that would help ensure technology serves as a means of evangelization and learning rather than becoming a barrier to faith and family unity.

Drawing inspiration from Saint Monica and the Blessed Virgin Mary, Fr. Alade called on mothers to remain steadfast in nurturing holy homes, supporting vocations to the priesthood and religious life, and raising children grounded in Christian virtues.

The atmosphere later shifted into a moment of deep spiritual reflection during the penitential service led by Rev. Fr. Leonard Ajereola. The session offered participants the opportunity to seek God’s mercy, reflect on their spiritual lives, and prepare themselves for the remaining activities of the seminar.

The opening day ended on a spiritually uplifting note, with participants expressing renewed commitment to their mission as women of faith and indispensable collaborators in the work of the Church. Delegates departed the day’s activities with a strengthened resolve to carry the light of faith back to their homes, parishes, and communities across the diocese.

15/04/2026

‎‎“EVERY PASTOR MUST LEAVE A PLACE BETTER” — FR. JUDE ANYAEHIE, CMF, AS OYO DIOCESE WELCOMES NEW PARISH PRIEST

- Michael Okeola
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‎The Catholic Diocese of Oyo has welcomed a new parish priest, Rev. Fr. Jude Anyaehie, CMF, who has officially assumed duty at St. Lawrence Catholic Church, Saki, succeeding Very Rev. Fr. Michael Eke, CMF, who was the Vicar General of the Religious Priests in the Diocese.
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‎Speaking during an interview, Fr. Jude Anyaehie described his assignment as a missionary call to continue the work of building the Church and serving the people of God.
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‎“My purpose in the Diocese is to carry on the mission entrusted to me and to succeed my predecessor, Rev. Fr. Michael Eke, CMF,” he stated.
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‎Reflecting on his encounter with the Bishop of the Diocese, Most Rev. Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo, the new parish priest expressed admiration for his leadership and dedication.
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‎“It is my first official engagement with the Bishop, and I must say he is cheerful and hospitable. From my discussion with him, I could see the immense effort he is putting into the growth and administration of the Diocese. It is highly encouraging,” he said.
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‎Fr. Anyaehie further emphasized the missionary responsibility of every priest to contribute meaningfully to the growth of the Church.
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‎“As missionaries, our work is to raise the people of God and expand the Church. Every pastor must strive to leave a place better than he met it. In doing so, the work of God continues to grow and flourish,” he noted.
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‎Addressing the faithful of the Diocese and particularly the parishioners of St. Lawrence, Saki, he expressed gratitude for the warm reception and pledged his commitment to serving with dedication.
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‎“I want to say well done to the Diocese for its growth and progress. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve here and to work with the people. I look forward to journeying together in faith,” he added.
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‎The transition marks a new chapter for the parish community, as they welcome their new shepherd while appreciating the contributions of his predecessor, whose service continues in a broader role within the Church.

15/04/2026

SCMTC @ 5: CELEBRATING FIVE YEARS OF MUSIC, FAITH, AND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT IN OYO DIOCESE

- Michael Okeola

The Catholic Diocese of Oyo, through the St. Cecilia Music Training Center (SCMTC), Oyo, joyfully celebrated its 5th anniversary with a solemn Mass and a series of inspiring activities highlighting faith, service, and human development.

The celebration, which drew a large gathering of clergy, religious, and lay faithful, was presided over by the Bishop of the Diocese, Most Rev. Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo.

Among the dignitaries present were the Dean of Iseyin Deanery, Rev. Fr. Martin Diipo Badejo; the Director of Fides Caritas and Don Bosco, Rev. Fr. Lawrence Adebayo Oke; the Chaplain of the Center, Rev. Fr. Philip Onifade; the Cathedral Administrator, Rev. Fr. Julius Olayinka; the Director of Social Communications, Rev. Fr. John Irekiigbe; the Editor of the Catholic Weekly Independent, Rev. Fr. Ibimiloye; Rev. Fr. Patrick Eyitayo Adewuyi; Rev. Fr. Sylvester Akinwole; Rev. Fr. Matthew Oladosu; Rev. Fr. Leo Eke; and several other priests.

Also in attendance were religious sisters, including Rev. Sr. Consolata Famoyin, Headmistress of St. Francis Nursery and Primary School; Rev. Sr. Chioma Ndolaka; and Rev. Sr. Elizabeth Agwu, the Diocesan Youth Coordinator, alongside numerous faithful.

Delivering a deeply reflective and vision-driven homily, the Bishop began by emphasizing gratitude as the foundation of every achievement.

“First of all, the Lord is good all the time, and everything we do as human beings that succeeds is by the grace of God. So we say: Thank you, Jesus.”

He stressed that while thanksgiving to God is essential, it is equally important to recognize those who cooperate with divine grace in building impactful initiatives.

The Bishop further revealed that the vision for the St. Cecilia Music Training Center was born out of a personal reflection during his 60th birthday, when he began to think deeply about legacy and impact.

“I asked myself: what am I going to leave behind? How can I communicate what God has given me to those who will live 100 years from now?”

That reflection, he explained, led to the decision to invest in children through music—an initiative that has now impacted over 300 young people across the Diocese.

The Bishop commended the collective efforts of seminarians, deacons, priests, religious sisters, and catechists, noting that their collaboration has been central to the success of the music training center.

“A bishop may have a good intention and do everything possible, but if the priests, the religious, and the pastoral workers do not adopt the idea, it may succeed—but not in the way we have seen here.”

He added that such cooperation ensures continuity and sustainability beyond individual leadership.

“When priests take such an initiative and cooperation follows, the project will outlast the bishop… it will be transmitted from one generation to another.”

Special recognition was given to key contributors whose sacrifices have sustained the center, including Mr. Adetoro, Mrs. Mope Ojefayo, Juliana Alade, and particularly Mr. George Olanipekun, the Coordinator of the Center.

Highlighting the depth of their commitment, the Bishop noted:

“Many times, these children sleep in his house. He feeds them, his wife cares for them, and he transports them at his own expense. What they have done is far beyond teaching—it is sacrifice.”

The Bishop also clarified that the music training center is part of a broader vision of development within the Catholic Diocese of Oyo, alongside other key initiatives such as Ave Maria Microfinance Bank, Don Bosco Wood Workshop, and Fides Power Solutions led by Rev. Fr. Lawrence Adebayo Oke.

“If this were for profit, we would have made enormous money. But like St. Paul says, we do not do this for our stomach—we do it for the Cross of Christ.”

He further emphasized the Church’s mission of holistic human development, explaining that true formation goes beyond academics.

“When you send a child to school, that is intellectual development. When you train the body, that is physical development. But the Church works to develop the human being fully and completely in all dimensions.”

He connected this vision to the Church’s broader mission of justice, development, and peace.

“How can people have peace when they have nothing to eat? That is why we must give people opportunities to live and grow.”

Highlighting youth empowerment, the Bishop pointed to various diocesan initiatives that equip young people with practical skills for life.

“Not all will go to the university, but all must have something to do—skills that will help them live meaningful lives.”

Speaking on the deeper significance of music, he described it as a powerful tool for unity and spiritual growth.

“Music builds communities. Music builds spirituality. Music makes people better.”

Following the Mass, the Chaplain of the Center, Rev. Fr. Philip Onifade, expressed profound gratitude to the Bishop for the vision behind the music training center. He encouraged the students and parents to remain committed, disciplined, and open to growth, assuring them of the Church’s continued support in nurturing both their talents and character.

As part of the celebration, the Coordinator of the Center, Mr. George Olanipekun, officially launched a book, marking another milestone in the center’s journey of growth and impact.

The event also featured awards and recognitions presented to individuals who have contributed significantly to the success of the center. Many beneficiaries, including non-Catholics, gave testimonies, praising the Catholic Church for its transformative role in their lives and in society at large.

During the reception, the Bishop further charged the students to deepen their understanding of the history of music, noting that such knowledge would help shape them into more refined and disciplined individuals.

The celebration concluded on a joyful note with impressive musical performances by the students of the center, showcasing the fruits of five years of dedication, sacrifice, and vision.

The anniversary stands as a testament to the power of faith-driven initiatives, the strength of community collaboration, and the enduring impact of investing in young people for the future.

Social Communications Commission, Catholic Diocese Of Oyo

15/05/2026

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