Henry EMETO & Madonna ATOYEBI 

 

In a rare blend of musical brilliance, spiritual depth and community commitment, St. Cecilia Choir of St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic Church, Old Ife Road, Ibadan, brought the city to a standstill on Sunday 29th June 2025, with a powerful concert titled "RAISE A SOUND, FOR GOD’S GLORY.”

 

Held at the Parish Hall of the parish, the event drew a packed audience of music lovers, parishioners and dignitaries, as well as visiting parishes including St. Mulumba, Alakia, and St Mary’s, Egbeda, with several singers, drummers and performers from across the Ancient City of Ibadan and outside.

 

A CONCERT WITH A CAUSE

 

The concert was conceived as a fundraising initiative to support the choir’s long-term musical and liturgical mission. Funds raised from the event are earmarked for the purchase and repair of vital instruments, equipment and choir essentials, including: Keyboard, lead and bass guitars; Floor monitor (feedback), new speakers and repairs of old ones; Condenser microphones, stands, wires and other musical accessories; Book and script shelves; Hymn books (Millennium, Ekesa, Seminary, etc.); Robes, caps, and capes; Wardrobes and hangers; Projectors, screens, laptops and accessories; Photocopiers, stands and accessories and a moveable generator and an electric drum set.

 

The concert served not just as an evening of soul-stirring performances, but also as a fundraising campaign aimed at raising ₦14 million to equip the choir for more impactful liturgical service. As at press time, the choir is halfway to reaching this goal and remains open to donations via:

 

Union Bank – 0232365251 – St Cecilia Choir of St Ignatius of Loyola

 

RED CARPET RADIANCE

 

The evening opened with a red carpet session hosted by Madonna Atoyebi and Henry Emeto, who interviewed attendees with joyful anticipation.

 

"As a chorister myself, I can’t wait to join voices to raise a sound across the corners of Ibadan for God’s glory,” Madonna shared.

 

"We are in for the best all-round musical experience. Just sit down, relax and enjoy the feeling,” Henry added.

 

MESSAGES FROM THE CORE TEAM

 

Charles Olopade, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, expressed pride in the choir’s dedication,

 

"The sacrifices and all-night rehearsals every Friday show just how much they are ready for today. As a member of this group, I am proud of what we've done to get here.”

 

Mrs Omotola Sofola, Choir President, echoed his sentiments, urging attendees to support the choir’s ongoing journey with all they can offer.

 

Josephine Olukoju, Choir Mistress, offered her heartfelt gratitude,

 

"Big thanks, first of all, to the Almighty for making this day a possibility. We also extend our gratitude to our Baba, Msgr. Dr. Joseph Idowu for his fatherly care in the parish, and to all our invited guests and parishes, mothers, fathers, friends and family and the entire archdiocese for showing up for us with their time, energy and resources. May the Lord bless you all.”

 

FROM VISION TO VOICE

 

Choir Master Fola Aiyegbusi set the tone with a heartfelt speech,

 

"Simply doing 'okay’ is no longer enough. We are called to offer something excellent, something that echoes the greatness of God and stirs the soul of the community.”

 

He emphasized that the event was not just about music, but about inspiring lives, nurturing creativity, and elevating worship for all.

 

A SHEPHERD'S PRIDE

 

The Parish Priest, Msgr. Dr Joseph Idowu, beamed with pride as he addressed the audience: "No one would have imagined this 'small choir’ would have what it takes to plan a concert of this magnitude. As the Head of this Parish, I am proud. Hard work, dedication and service have paid off. They deserve all the support they are getting today."

 

HONOURS AND HIGHLIGHTS

 

Distinguished guests were recognised for their unwavering support to the choir’s mission. Certificates of Recognition were awarded to:

 

• Barrister Adenike Kolawole (Parish Pastoral Council Chairperson)
• Mr Matthew Edah (Parish Laity Council President)
• Mr John Alamu (Chairman of the Day)
• Dr Mrs I.J. Olusanmi (Chairlady of the Day)
• Professor Mrs E.F. Ojo (Mother of the Day)
• Engr M.D. Akinjo (Father of the Day)
• Mrs J.M. Soliu (Grandmother of the Day)
• HRM Oba Tajudeen Ajibola Abimbola (Royal Father of the Day)

 

Several other individuals received recognition as well.

 

REACTIONS FROM THE AUDIENCE

 

Barrister George Onaho, a lover of good food and music, visibly excited, shared, "I put aside other engagements to be here in person. St Cecilia Choir is known for good music, and today will be no exception. I’m ready to support them however I can.”

 

Sir Ehidiame Omofuma, CMO President and a former chorister, encouraged discipline and liturgical awareness, "They must be professional at all times, avoiding any form of youthful exuberance. Also, paying attention to the Mass in its entirety will help them know when to tone things down.”

 

One audience member, a grandfather, was moved by the enthusiasm of her family, "What I see my grandchildren do at home in preparation for today tells me this choir has worked so hard to get to this day. I hope they reap the rewards of that labour.”

 

STAY CONNECTED

 

Those wishing to relive or discover the beauty of the concert can access pre-, mid-, and post-concert content via the choir’s social media platforms on TikTok and X @loyolachoir_ib

 

A SOUND THAT HEAVEN HEARD

 

From spending nights every Friday for two months getting themselves cooked and ready, to soaring harmonies, and to sincere prayers, the RAISE A SOUND CONCERT was more than an evening of music. It was a manifestation of faith, excellence and collective purpose for growth. For the St Cecilia Choir, it was a statement that the future of sacred music at St Ignatius of Loyola Catholic Church is not only secure. IT IS SET TO SOAR!

 

"Together, we are not just making music,” Fola declared. "WE ARE MAKING HISTORY!”