By Emmanuel Eko, CSN
Priests, religious and lay faithful of the Catholic Archdiocese of Ibadan celebrated the 75th birthday of its revered Archbishop, Most Rev. Gabriel ‘Leke Abegunrin, with widespread accolades and gratitude for his exemplary leadership and selfless service to the Church and humanity.
Speaking on behalf of the Archdiocese in a Press Conference, the Archdiocesan Pastoral Secretary, Rev. Fr. Richard Omolade, described Archbishop Abegunrin as a transformative leader whose tenure has been marked by remarkable growth, development, and compassion.
“Archbishop Abegunrin’s 75 years of life have been a testament to his unwavering dedication to the Catholic Church and the people of God,” Fr. Omolade said. “His visionary leadership has inspired countless individuals, fostered unity, and promoted social justice.”
Explaining further, Fr. Omolade in the press statement, disclosed that under Archbishop Abegunrin’s guidance, the Archdiocese has witnessed significant advancements in education, healthcare, and social welfare initiatives. He added that his advocacy for youth empowerment, good governance, and human rights, earned him recognition as a champion of the people.
“Archbishop Abegunrin’s legacy extends far beyond the Archdiocese,” Fr. Omolade noted. “His influence has resonated throughout the Catholic community in Nigeria, inspiring a new generation of leaders.
“We pray for God’s continued blessings and guidance upon Archbishop Abegunrin’s life, as he continues to inspire and lead us,” Fr. Omolade concluded.
Having served as the Catholic Bishop of Osogbo since 1995, Archbishop Agbegurin was in early 2024, installed as the Metropolitan Archbishop of Ibadan. As a former Chairman, Lay Apostolate Organisations of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN ), the Prelate was on March 24, 2000, appointed by the Federal Government of Nigeria as Chairman of Peace and Reconciliation committee for Ife – Modakeke crises, and appointed Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria, from 2000-2004. His Episcopal motto is “Love Conquers All (Ife bori ohun gbogbo).”
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