Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has announced plans by his administration to return all missionary schools in the state to their original owners.
The governor made this known while receiving the Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria, Most Rev. Michael Crotty, alongside the Catholic Bishop of Ijebu-Ode, Most Rev. Francis Adesina, the Catholic Bishop of Abeokuta, Most Rev. Peter Odetoyinbo, and other church officials during a courtesy visit at his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
Abiodun acknowledged the vital role played by religious organisations in the development of the education and health sectors, stressing that government alone cannot shoulder the responsibility of development.
“We will return all missionary schools to their original owners. It is not our policy to work alone. We must collaborate with private individuals and institutions, and we welcome stronger partnerships with the church to drive development,” the governor said.
He described Ogun State as a hub for religious tourism, hosting various religious bodies, and commended the Catholic Church for its global and local contributions. According to him, the church, with an estimated 1.2 billion members worldwide, about 34 million in Nigeria, and over 1.2 million in Ogun State, has significantly impacted society through education and healthcare services.
The governor also highlighted the peaceful coexistence among people of different religious backgrounds in the state, noting that this harmony has contributed to Ogun’s economic growth.
“The services rendered by religious bodies promote peace. People often trust religious institutions more than politicians, as they believe politicians sometimes fail to fulfil promises. We deeply appreciate the role of faith-based organisations,” he added.
Abiodun attributed the achievements of his administration to the support and prayers of religious faithful and congratulated the Apostolic Nuncio on his appointment, describing him as well-prepared for the role.
In his remarks, Most Rev. Crotty commended the governor for fostering religious tolerance and freedom in the state.
“Your efforts in providing a stable and supportive political environment have greatly enhanced the mission of the Catholic Church in Ogun State. We are grateful and encourage continued collaboration, especially in the education and health sectors where our missions align,” he said.
Crotty also expressed appreciation for the ongoing process to return missionary schools to their original owners, expressing optimism that Catholic schools, particularly those in the dioceses of Ijebu-Ode and Abeokuta, would benefit from the initiative.
