Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has announced plans to return missionary schools to their original owners as part of efforts to strengthen partnerships in the education sector.
The governor made this known on Friday while receiving the Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria, Archbishop Michael Francis Crotty, who paid him a courtesy visit at the Government House in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, alongside top Catholic clerics.
Abiodun said the decision was informed by the recognition that government cannot single-handedly drive development, particularly in critical sectors such as education and healthcare.
“We will return all missionary schools to their original owners. It is not our policy to do it alone,” the governor said.
“We need to join hands with private individuals and faith-based organisations, especially the Church, to expand development and improve service delivery.”
He acknowledged the historical and ongoing contributions of religious institutions, particularly the Catholic Church, to human development across the globe and within Nigeria.
“The Church has consistently played a vital role in education and healthcare. These are areas where their impact is undeniable,” he noted.
“We recognise that collaboration with such institutions will significantly enhance the quality of services available to our people.”
Describing Ogun State as a model of religious harmony, Abiodun attributed the state’s relative peace and socio-economic progress to the strong role played by faith-based organisations.
“Ogun State is blessed with peaceful coexistence among different religious groups, and this has contributed immensely to our development,” he said.
“The services rendered by religious bodies help in sustaining peace because the people trust them.”
He added that faith-based institutions often command greater public confidence than political actors, making their involvement crucial in governance and development initiatives.
“Our people believe you more than politicians because they see you as consistent and sincere,” he remarked.
“That is why your role in shaping society and promoting development cannot be overemphasised.”
The governor also congratulated the Apostolic Nuncio on his appointment, expressing confidence in his ability to strengthen ties between the Church and the state.
“Do not doubt that you will succeed in your mission. This visit marks the beginning of a mutually beneficial relationship between the Church and Ogun State,” he said.
Earlier, Archbishop Crotty commended the governor for fostering a conducive environment for religious activities and promoting harmony among diverse groups in the state.
“Your administration has provided a stable and supportive environment that has greatly enhanced the mission of the Church in Ogun State,” he said.
“We are grateful for your openness and commitment to collaboration.”
He urged the state government to sustain its partnership with the Church, particularly in sectors where both institutions share common goals.
“The Church remains committed to working with the government in advancing education and healthcare, which are central to our mission,” Crotty added.
The Apostolic Nuncio also welcomed the governor’s decision to return missionary schools, expressing optimism that it would strengthen the capacity of faith-based institutions to contribute to human development.
“We commend this initiative and look forward to its full implementation,” he said.
“We are hopeful that Catholic schools, especially within the dioceses of Ijebu-Ode and Abeokuta, will benefit from this process.”
The meeting was attended by the Catholic Bishop of Ijebu-Ode, Most Rev. Francis Obafemi Adesina; the Catholic Bishop of Abeokuta, Most Rev. Peter Odetoyinbo; and other senior Church officials.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance, Abiodun said partnerships with credible institutions would remain central to his development agenda.
“Our goal is to build a state where every institution, public or private, works together for the common good,” he said.
