Abiodun announces plan to restore missionary schools in Ogun

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has announced plans by his administration to return missionary schools in the state to their original owners as part of efforts to strengthen partnerships in the education sector.

Abiodun made this known on Friday while receiving the Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria, Michael Francis Crotty, during a courtesy visit to his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

The delegation included the Catholic Bishop of Ijebu-Ode, Francis Obafemi Adesina, the Catholic Bishop of Abeokuta, Peter Odetoyinbo, and other church officials.

The governor acknowledged the longstanding contributions of religious bodies to the education and health sectors, stressing that government alone cannot drive sustainable development without collaboration with private and faith-based institutions.

He stated that the decision to return missionary schools aligns with his administration’s policy of inclusiveness and partnership. According to him, greater collaboration with the Church and other stakeholders would help expand development across the state.

Abiodun also described Ogun State as a hub of religious harmony and an emerging destination for religious tourism, noting that faith-based organisations continue to play a crucial role in promoting peace and development.

Highlighting the global influence of the Catholic Church, he noted its significant presence in Nigeria and Ogun State, particularly in the areas of education and healthcare, which he said have positively impacted the state’s socio-economic growth.

The governor attributed the successes recorded by his administration to the support and prayers of the faithful, while commending the peaceful coexistence among adherents of different religions in the state.

In his remarks, the Apostolic Nuncio, Michael Francis Crotty, praised the governor for fostering religious harmony and creating a conducive environment for the Church’s activities. He urged the state government to sustain collaboration, particularly in health and education, and expressed optimism that Catholic schools would benefit from the planned return to original owners.