Missionary Schools Will Be Returned to Original Owners

Governor Dapo Abiodun has declared that missionary schools in Ogun State will be returned to their original owners as part of his administration’s effort to deepen collaboration with faith-based organisations in the education sector.

The Governor made the announcement on Friday April 10 while receiving Michael Francis Crotty at his office in Oke-Mosan. The delegation also included Francis Obafemi Adesina, Peter Odetoyinbo and other Catholic officials.

Abiodun said his administration recognises the enormous contributions religious organisations have made over the years in the areas of education and healthcare, stressing that government cannot successfully drive development alone.

“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,” the Governor said.

The Governor described Ogun as one of the most peaceful and religiously tolerant States in the Country, adding that the State is gradually becoming a centre for religious tourism.

According to him, faith-based institutions have remained critical partners in maintaining peace and supporting development across the State. He noted that the Catholic Church, with about 1.2 billion members worldwide, over 34 million faithful in Nigeria and roughly 1.2 million in Ogun State, has continued to make major contributions through its schools and hospitals.

Abiodun said the cordial relationship among Christians, Muslims and traditional worshippers in the State has helped to boost economic growth and social stability.

“The services rendered by religious bodies help in achieving peace in the State. Our people believe you more than politicians because they believe politicians make promises without fulfilling them. The role of faith-based organisations is duly appreciated,” he added.

The Governor also congratulated Crotty on his appointment as Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria, expressing confidence that his tenure would strengthen the relationship between the Church and the state.

In his remarks, Crotty praised the Governor for fostering religious harmony and creating an enabling environment for the activities of the Catholic Church in Ogun State.

“Your provision of a stable and supportive political environment has significantly enhanced the mission of the Catholic Church in your State, and we are grateful for that,” he said.

The Papal envoy urged the state government to sustain its partnership with the Church, particularly in the areas of health and education.

He also commended the Governor for beginning the process of returning missionary schools, expressing optimism that Catholic schools in the dioceses of Ijebu-Ode and Abeokuta would be among those handed back to their original owners.

“The Catholic Church is willing to collaborate with the state in strengthening human development, which is central to the mission and social teaching of the Church,” Crotty added.