It is with profound sadness that we bid farewell to a remarkable priest, passionate media man, and devoted servant of God, Rev. Fr. Anthony Akiwowo. His sudden departure leaves an unfillable void in the lives of all who knew him, but his indelible mark on our hearts and minds will continue to inspire us.

 

I had the privilege of closely encountering Fr. Akiwowo during my days at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Apomu as a Pastoral Year Seminarian. Little did I know that this encounter would be the beginning of a transformative journey. He took me under his wing, entrusting me with responsibilities that stretched my capabilities and fostered personal growth. His guidance and mentorship helped me navigate the intricacies of Church documents, registers, and administration. It was indeed a smooth ride with him, a brother, Father, tutor and guide.

 

Fr. Akiwowo was a true Renaissance man – Versatile, dynamic, and always on the go. With Him you learn to do things yourself. There were so many things we had to do with ourselves even with the meagre resources available. His infectious energy and jovial spirit made him the life of every party. But beneath his warm demeanor lay a sharp mind, a passion for excellence, and an unwavering commitment to serving God and humanity. He just wanted to do his best, that was all.

 

As a Media man, Fr. Akiwowo was a force to be reckoned with. His tenure as Editor of the Catholic Weekly Independent and Director of Social Communications was marked by innovation, creativity, and a deep understanding of the power of media to shape narratives and inspire positive change.

 

By divine providence, I had the privilege of succeeding Fr. Akiwowo as the Editor of the Catholic Weekly Independent. Even after passing on the baton, he continued to guide my steps and offer valuable insights, helping me navigate the complexities of this role. We had plans to embark on a journey of self-learning and growth, with him sharing his expertise and teaching me the intricacies of the field. Alas, God had other plans, and Fr. Akiwowo was called home before we could embark on this journey.

 

Fr. Akiwowo's legacy is a testament to the impact one person can have on the lives of others. He embodied the values of selflessness, compassion, and dedication, inspiring countless individuals to embrace their own calling to serve. His memory will continue to inspire us to strive for excellence, to embrace our passions, and to live our lives with purpose and intention.

 

Rest in peace, dear Fr. Akiwowo. Your shining star may have faded from our sight, but its light will continue to illuminate our path, guiding us toward a brighter future. Worthy Predecessor, sleep in peace in the bosom of your Father who loves you best. Till we meet to part no more.