Ogun State Governor Announces Return of Missionary Schools to Original Owners
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has declared that his administration will return missionary schools in the state to their original owners as part of a strategic effort to enhance partnerships within the education sector. This announcement was made during a courtesy visit by the Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria, Archbishop Michael Francis Crotty, at the governor's office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, on Friday.
Strengthening Education Through Collaboration
Governor Abiodun emphasized that the government cannot drive development alone and requires the active involvement of private and faith-based institutions. He stated, "We will return all missionary schools to their owners. It is not our policy to do it alone. We need to join hands with private individuals, and we encourage further partnership with the Church to expand development." This move aims to leverage the longstanding contributions of religious bodies, particularly in education and health sectors, to foster socio-economic progress in Ogun State.
Recognition of Religious Contributions
During the meeting, Abiodun highlighted Ogun State as a hub of religious harmony and a growing destination for religious tourism. He acknowledged the vital role of faith-based organizations in sustaining peace and development, noting the Catholic Church's significant impact with approximately 1.2 billion adherents globally, including 34 million in Nigeria and 1.2 million in Ogun State. The governor praised the peaceful coexistence among different religious groups, attributing it to the trust and services provided by religious bodies, which he said are often more trusted than politicians.
Support from the Catholic Church
Archbishop Michael Francis Crotty commended Governor Abiodun for promoting religious harmony and creating a conducive environment for the Church's activities. He expressed gratitude for the stable political support, which has enhanced the Catholic Church's mission in the state. Crotty welcomed the plan to return schools to their original owners, specifically mentioning Catholic schools in the Ijebu-Ode and Abeokuta dioceses as potential beneficiaries. He added, "The Catholic Church is willing to collaborate with the state in strengthening human development, which is central to our mission and social teachings."
Future Implications and Partnerships
The delegation included key church officials such as the Catholic Bishop of Ijebu-Ode, Francis Obafemi Adesina, and the Catholic Bishop of Abeokuta, Peter Odetoyinbo, underscoring the importance of this collaboration. Governor Abiodun attributed his administration's achievements to the support and prayers of the faithful and expressed confidence in the Papal Nuncio's success. This initiative is expected to strengthen ties between the state government and religious institutions, paving the way for enhanced educational outcomes and community development in Ogun State.
