Kunle Adelabu
The Governor of Lagos, Mr Babajide Sanwo – Olu, on Sunday joined other eminent personalities, congregation and residents of Ikorodu in celebrating the 120th anniversary of the existence of The African Church Bethel Cathedral, Ikorodu.
The special commemorative service/grand finale of the week – long activities celebrating the milestone anniversary took place at the auditorium of The African Church Bethel Cathedral, Aga Junction, Ireshe Road, Ikorodu.
Also joining the number one man in the state, who was represented by his Special Adviser on Religious Matters, The Very Rev’d Adeleke, were His Royal Majesty, Oba (Engr.) Kabir Shotobi, the Ayangbure of Ikorodu and his Olori, Olori Abosede Kudirat Shotobi, His Royal Majesty (Oba) Semiudeen Orimadegun Kasali, the Adeboruwa of Igbogbo, Sen. Tokunbo Abiru, Senator representing Lagos East, Asiwaju Olorunfunmi Basorun, former Secretary to Lagos State Government represented by Hon. Taiwo Orenuga, Chairman, APC Igbogbo/Bayeku LGA, Asiwaju Steve Anifowoshe, the Asiwaju of Ikorodu, Dr Benjamin Eniayewun, Permanent Secretary, Health Service Commission among others.
The celebration is themed, “Amazing Grace of God”
Gov. Sanwo – Olu in his speech during the service said that the courage of the founders of the cathedral 120 years ago has turned into an heritage that the present generations have found sanctuary in and are today celebrating.
He described the establishment as the need for freedom from the colonially imposed mode of worship and fulfilment of an idea that they can relate with and comprehend.
“How do you capture 120 years of grace, courage, and purpose in words? How do you pay tribute to a legacy that began with a bold vision and has become an enduring testament to God’s faithfulness? Today, we gather to celebrate a remarkable story —one of faith, resilience, and the extraordinary power of unity.
“When The African Church Bethel Cathedral was established in 1904, it was far more than the creation of a place of worship. It was a declaration of self-identity, a stand for the freedom to express faith in a way that resonated deeply with African spirituality. For 120 years, this Cathedral has been a sanctuary — a place where burdens are lifted, hope is renewed, and lives are transformed.”
The governor’s goodwill message furthered, “What makes this anniversary truly special is not just the history we commemorate but the people we honour. To the visionaries who planted the seed of this institution 120 years ago, your courage still bears fruit today.
“To the clergy who have shepherded this flock with spiritual wisdom, your labour has illuminated countless lives. To the congregation whose unwavering devotion has kept the light burning across generations, you are living proof that God works through His people.”
While stating that the Church since creation has gone through challenges and turbulence, Sanwo Olu congratulated congregants of the Church and enjoined them to live in unity and love everyday.
“One hundred and twenty years — this is more than a milestone; it is a miracle. It is a journey through wars, pandemics, economic upheavals, and social transformations. Yet, this Church has stood firm, a beacon of hope and a reflection of God’s enduring promise: “I will build My Church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”
“As we celebrate this remarkable history, we must also embrace its lessons. The African Church Bethel Cathedral teaches us that faith is not only professed on Sundays: it is lived every day. It reminds us that unity is not just an ideal — it is the foundation of every enduring achievement. And it reveals that true greatness lies not in what we receive but in what we give back to our communities.”
The Governor in acknowledging the role of the Church in social development of the society, also charged that the Church must continue to play its role ensuring that truth and justice prevail at all time.
He called for the congregation to continue sustaining the heritage for the generations yet unborn.
“This Cathedral has been more than a spiritual sanctuary; it has been a pillar of social transformation. Through its schools, missions, and outreach programs, it has extended its reach far beyond its congregation, uplifting lives and inspiring hope. The walls of this sacred space are not just bricks and mortar —they are built on the prayers, sacrifices, and dreams of countless men and women who envisioned a brighter future.
“Yet, as we honour the past, we must look boldly to the future. In a rapidly changing world, the Church’s role has never been more critical. The African Church must remain a voice of truth in times of confusion, a refuge in moments of uncertainty, and a force for justice in a world that yearns for fairness.
“To the leadership of this great Cathedral, I commend you for carrying a sacred mantle. Lead with wisdom and courage, for your work shapes lives, families, and communities. To the youth of this congregation, I charge you with this: cherish this heritage, grow it with purpose, and pass it on stronger to the next generation. You are the stewards of this legacy.
“I urge everyone to be inspired by this celebration; consider that if a single seed of faith planted 120 years ago could bear such abundant fruit, imagine what we can achieve together in unity. Let this celebration remind us that our greatest strength lies in our shared values — faith, hard work, and an unshakable belief in the possibilities of tomorrow,” Sanwo – Olu urged.
He pledged his government’s continued support for institutions that are playing critical roles in ensuring peaceful co – existence.
“As Governor of our dear Lagos State, I reaffirm my administration’s commitment to supporting institutions like this, which uplift lives and promotes peace. The partnership between the Church and the government is vital to building a society rooted in justice, harmony, and development. Together, we can shape a Lagos that is not only prosperous but also anchored in strong moral foundations.
“Let us, therefore, celebrate not just the past 120 years but the limitless possibilities of the next 120 years. May this Cathedral continue to be a lighthouse for the lost, a refuge for the weary, and a testament to the glory of God.
“Congratulations to The African Church Bethel Cathedral, Ikorodu, on this extraordinary milestone. May the blessings of this day echo for generations to come”, he said.
Oba Kabir Shotobi, the Ayangbure of Ikorodu, while describing the attainment of 120 years of the Church as God’s faithfulness and blessings, took out time to remember and praise the vision of the founders of the Cathedral Church:
“It is important that we should be grateful to God for witnessing the 120 years anniversary of this Church, which is a heritage that our forefathers built for us
“This is great blessings and favour of God because it is not an easy thing to have an institution existing for 120 years. They also put this magnificent edifice in place which we have been able to preserve and sustain.
“Although, my father was a Muslim but I attended Methodist Church and he also sent me to the Methodist Primary School. I was once a member of Choir in that Church.
“Then, whenever our forefathers established a Missionary Centre, they usually establish Sunday Schools, Primary Schools and Secondary Schools along with it. This is the same thing that the founders of The African Church Bethel Cathedral did”, Oba Shotobi said.
The royal father remembered and acknowledged the contributions of some of the late elders of the Church including Pa Amos Oshin, Pa Shopitan, Pa Esumade Eniayewun and Pa Okeowo
“These people were not after material gains, but they have vision for the future which was the legacy that they laid for us and which we are today celebrating.
“We have every cause to be thankful to God.”
Oba Shotobi charged the congregation on the need to continue to sustain the legacy of the forefathers .
In his sermon, The Rt. Rev’d Hezekiah A. Adetoro, Bishop, Lagos West Diocese congratulated the Church on the occasion of its 120 years anniversary.
He charged that the congregation must have the spirit of forgiveness if the Church must move forward in spirit and development of its members.
Bishop Adeleke also called on its members to come together in unity and sincerity.
He urged the congregation to exhibit Godly life at all time for the Church and its members to go the next level.
Olola Olusegun Iluyombo, JP., Chairman, 120th Anniversary Committee, speaking earlier in the service briefly spoke on the founding of the Church and the trajectory of its development, adding the celebration is to honour the sacrifices of the founders and also celebrating those in the present.
“The African Church Bethel Cathedral, Ikorodu began its Journey on December 11, 1904, under the courageous leadership of Chief Samuel Okeowo Odofin. Guided by divine grace, the Church has grown remarkably, transitioning from an annex to a cathedral in 2005 and extending its influence through schools, annexes, and significant contribution to major conferences that have shaped its identity.
“This occasion provides a unique opportunity to honour the sacrifices of our forebears , visionary individuals and families who gave their time and resources for the growth of this church. Their legacy inspires us as we celebrate this significant milestone with gratitude and purpose.
“Over the past weeks, we have engaged in activities aimed at honouring our past, celebrating our present, and inspiring a brighter future. As we commemorate this remarkable milestone, let us remember the words of the Psalmist: ” Teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom” (Psalm 90:12).
“Today is a call to renew our commitment to God’s work and to support His mission through our moral and financial contribution,” he said.
Special numbers were rendered by the Choir of The African Church Bethel Cathedral, Ikorodu at the commemorative service.
