Michael OKEOLA

 

The Catholic Diocese of Oyo witnessed a historic and grace-filled moment in January 2026 as the 40th Priestly Anniversary of its Bishop, Most Rev. Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo, was marked with the commissioning of a new Diocesan Secretariat and the blessing of a bus for the St. Cecilia Music Training Centre.

 

The event, which drew clergy, religious, lay faithful, benefactors and well-wishers from across the Diocese and beyond, stood as a powerful testimony to faith, vision, sacrifice and continuity in the life of the local Church.

 

Welcoming the gathering, the Vicar General of the Diocese, Very Rev. Fr. Boniface Wuraola, described the occasion as a joyful convergence of thanksgiving and institutional progress. He noted that the commissioning of the Secretariat coinciding with the Bishop’s anniversary was a fitting way to begin the New Year, recalling that when the Bishop proposed the idea, it immediately struck him as both symbolic and providential. He reflected on the Diocese’s journey from its modest beginnings in 1995, through the erection of its first Secretariat building in 2000, to the present moment of expansion necessitated by rapid growth over the past 15 to 18 years. While the former structure had served faithfully, its limitations—both structural and administrative—had become evident, making the new Secretariat not only timely but essential. He expressed gratitude that nearly all diocesan commissions now have offices within the new complex, describing the project as a lasting legacy that would strengthen the Diocese’s capacity for order, record-keeping and effective pastoral coordination.

 

In his address, Bishop Badejo spoke with deep gratitude and pastoral warmth, emphasizing that the project was a collective achievement born of unity rather than individual acclaim.

He stressed the importance of acknowledging contributions without exaggeration or omission, noting that while many served, some bore heavier responsibilities than others. In particular, he paid heartfelt tribute to Architect G.O. Oludapo, whose decades-long commitment to diocesan projects dates back to the era of the late Bishop Emeritus, Most Rev. Julius Babatunde Adelakun. The Bishop recalled how, in earlier years, instructions were given without lengthy financial discussions, yet the work was always carried out faithfully. He also acknowledged the steadfast support of Mrs. Oludapo, affirming that her encouragement at home made her husband’s dedication possible.

 

Explaining the philosophy behind the Secretariat’s design, the Bishop revealed that his vision was to preserve history by integrating the old structure with the new rather than demolishing it entirely. Drawing parallels with historic buildings in Europe that continue to inspire centuries later, he warned that losing a sense of history inevitably weakens a people’s sense of the future. Though the process of merging old and new came with significant challenges—including moments of disagreement and intense deliberation—he affirmed that perseverance prevailed. He also commended Engineer Badmus from Ilorin Diocese for volunteering his expertise and remaining steadfast throughout the project.

 

The Bishop further highlighted the remarkable contribution of local talent, stressing that the work was largely executed by sons and daughters of Oyo. He singled out Michael Oladokun Orlando and other young professionals whose craftsmanship has drawn admiration from visitors. With visible emotion, he spoke of the pride future generations would feel knowing their parents helped build a lasting diocesan institution. He equally praised the dedication of diocesan staff, youths attached to the Bishop’s House, and the women who supported the project in diverse ways, assuring them that their labour would not go unrewarded.

 

Special recognition was given to benefactors whose generosity sustained the project, including Mama Akinwumi, whose support never wavered even in absence, Mr. and Chief Justice Oguntoyinbo for their sacrificial commitment, as well as Mama Maria Shofunmade, Professor and Mrs. Oriola, Hon. Dele Adigun, and numerous societies and groups within the Church.

 The Bishop prayed that as the building was dedicated to God’s service, the lives and homes of all contributors would likewise be blessed.

 

Messages of goodwill followed from various diocesan bodies, reflecting a shared sense of pride and hope. Representatives of the youth expressed joy that the Secretariat stands as proof that faith-driven dreams are achievable, while the Catholic Women Organization offered songs of thanksgiving, describing the building as a dignified home for diocesan administration. The Laity Council emphasized unity and pledged continued support for the maintenance and effective use of the facility, as friends of the Diocese marveled at the speed and quality with which the project was completed.

 

Presenting the Building Committee’s report, the Chairman, Rev. Fr. Patrick Eyitayo, traced the project’s roots to the solid foundation laid by the late Bishop Emeritus, while acknowledging that explosive growth by early 2025 made expansion unavoidable. He described the Bishop’s vision as bold and faith-filled, especially given prevailing economic challenges, and testified that divine providence guided every stage of construction. Quoting the Psalms, he affirmed that help truly came from the Lord, turning vision into reality through the sacrifices of benefactors, artisans, parish groups, women and youths. He praised Bishop Badejo’s close supervision and described the day as a milestone in the Diocese’s history.

 

The celebration was further enriched by the presentation and blessing of a new bus for the St. Cecilia Music Training Centre. Bishop Badejo explained that the gift was inspired by the remarkable growth and public witness of the young musicians, whose performances have earned admiration in Ibadan, Osogbo and even at events involving the Nigerian Army Band. He commended their instructor, Mr. George Olanipekun, for years of personal sacrifice, often using his own vehicle and resources to transport the children. Moved by this dedication, the Bishop resolved to provide a safer and more reliable means of transport, noting that the bus—like the Secretariat—was realized through faith and hope rather than surplus funds. He prayed that the vehicle would serve as an instrument of safety and mission as the children continue to sing to the glory of God.

 

The event concluded with prayers, blessings and expressions of thanksgiving, leaving the faithful with a renewed sense of purpose. Beyond bricks and mortar, the commissioning stood as a reminder that it is people—united in faith, service and love—who truly build the Church and secure its future.