First Baptist Church, Ilorin to celebrate 85th anniversary in grand style
By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin
First Baptist Church, Suru-Lere, Ilorin under the leadership of Rev. Dr. ‘Yinka Ololade, is set to celebrate its 85th anniversary with a week-long program, starting on Sunday, September 8, 2024. The celebration will culminate in a grand ceremony on Saturday, September 14, at the church auditorium, with the aim of raising N85 million for church development.
The event will be graced by notable royal dignitaries, including His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, the Soun of Ogbomoso, and His Imperial Majesty, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, the Emir of Ilorin, who will serve as the royal fathers of the day. Other royal guests include His Royal Majesty, Onipee of Ipee, Oba Dr. Mufutau Lawal Titiloye III, and His Royal Majesty, Olusin of Ijara Isin, Pharmacist Oba Ademola Ajibola.
The theme of the anniversary, “My Season of Divine Mercy” (Psalm 86:3), will be explored by the guest minister, Rev. Dr. Israel Akanji, the President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention.
Prominent political figures are also expected to attend the event. The special guests of honor include His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq; the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde FNSE; and the Executive Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke. The Deputy Governor of Kwara State, His Excellency Elder Kayode Alabi, will serve as the guest of honor.
The Chairman of the day will be Hon. Olamijuwon Alao-Akala, President of the Nigeria Young Parliamentarian, National Assembly, while Mrs. Adenike Odewumi, Chairperson of G Pinnacle Signature, will be the chairperson. The mothers of the day are Mrs. Janet Oyekan and Mama Ifeoma, and the Chief Launcher will be Sir Dr. Samson Adegoke, Chairman of Maigida Foundation, with Hon. Oluwasegun Odebunmi serving as the co-launcher.
The anniversary celebrations will feature various events, including a “Walk for Christ” on Sunday, September 8, from 10:30 to 11:30 am. Revival sessions are scheduled from Monday, September 9 to Wednesday, September 11, focusing on the theme “Divine Mercy” with guest preacher Rev. Dr. Moses Adeyemo. A free medical check-up will be offered on Thursday, September 12, and a night of praises will be held on Friday, September 13, featuring performances by the Emmanuel Choir, St. Paul Choir, Alaafia Oluwa Choir, FBC Combined Choir, Tosin Oyebamiji, and Precious Amao.
The main anniversary celebration and fundraising ceremony will take place on Saturday, September 14, followed by a Thanksgiving Service on Sunday, September 15, to conclude the week-long events.
