JDPI Media

The Justice, Development and Peace Initiative (JDPI), a Non-Governmental Organisation under the Catholic Diocese of Ekiti, Ekiti State and children from all parishes on Saturday celebrated the 63rd birthday of the Diocese Bishop, Most Rev. Felix Ajakaye in grand style, with the Bishop calling for national development through working together by all.

The event, which coincided with the Children’s Day celebration of the Church, attracted kids from all parishes across the State who spoke glowingly of the Bishop and prayed for him.

In his homily titled “Children as Missionaries of Hope”, Bishop Ajakaye emphasized the importance of love, especially among children, noting that genuine affection and mutual respect from an early age could help shape a better future for the country.

He stressed the pivotal role of children in building peace, national development and called on parents and guardians to guide them properly when they begin to stray.

He said, “You must behave well with no seed of hatred, you must have a solid knowledge of their faith. You are the future of the Church, all eyes are on you.

“Move closer to God at all times, without rest and despair. We are joyful people by following Jesus’ ways and paths. We should show love to kids, if we do that, we show love to God.

“If we move closer to God, we will see challenges but we’ll definitely overcome them. Love conquers hate and hatred, you can’t let in love if you don’t let out hatred, it’s elimination by substitution”.

Speaking with journalists, Head of Human Rights Department of JDPI, Anthony Adeusi, said the body also used the occasion to sensitize the kids on how to avert Gender Based Violence (GBV) cases and how to report in case of any occurrence.

Aluko Aseyori, a student of St. Joseph Catholic College, described Bishop Ajakaye as a loving father who genuinely cares about children. He urged the state government to implement measures to address rising insecurity, which he said threatens the safety of children.

Ogunsakin Ifeoluwa of St. Michael Catholic Church also described Bishop Ajakaye as a compassionate and genuine leader who positively impacts the lives of those around him. She called on the government to provide free education for all, noting that such a step would revive the hopes of children who lack the means to pursue academic dreams.