CAN Inaugurates Chaplain, New Executives at Federal Polytechnic Ayede to Strengthen Campus Christian Community

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Ogbomoso Zone, has officially inaugurated a new chaplain and executive members of the Christian Community at the Federal Polytechnic Ayede (FEDPA), in a move aimed at strengthening spiritual leadership and faith-based activities within the institution.

The inauguration ceremony, held at the Polytechnic’s temporary campus in Iresa-Pupa, attracted a wide range of participants, including clerics, institutional leaders, staff, students, and invited guests from across the region.

Delivering the keynote message, Reverend Dr. Femi Babajide, Chaplain of the University of Ilorin, spoke on the purpose of human existence, drawing lessons from the biblical story of Jonah. He emphasized the importance of obedience to God’s will, noting that divine purpose can be fulfilled through various means.

He charged the newly inaugurated Chaplain and Chairman of the Christian Community on Campus (CCC), Peter S. Okechukwu, alongside the 20-member executive team and the wider congregation, to embrace a purpose-driven life rooted in spiritual rebirth and righteousness.

Dr. Babajide also expressed concern over the persistence of moral challenges in society despite the growing number of churches and religious activities. He called on individuals to move beyond outward religious practices and commit to genuine transformation through faith.

Providing historical context, Dr. Kehinde Odelade outlined the evolution of the Christian Community Fellowship within the Polytechnic. He explained that the fellowship, which comprises both staff and students, was established to promote Christian values and propagate the gospel on campus.

According to him, the group held its inaugural meeting on February 3, 2023, with strong participation from Christian staff, and has since developed into a vibrant and active faith-based community within the institution.

The event also featured inspiring musical performances by the fellowship choir, as well as special prayers for the Polytechnic’s management, staff, students, and the newly inaugurated leadership.

In his remarks, Reverend Dr. Samuel Owoade, Chaplain of the Soun Palace and representative of the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, encouraged Christians to take a more active role in spreading the gospel. He noted that with the increasing number of believers, there is a greater responsibility to advance the Christian faith and impact society positively.

Also speaking, former CAN Chairman of Ogbomoso Zone, Venerable Dr. J. S. Adegoke, formally introduced the newly appointed CAN Chairman for the zone, Reverend Wale Adegbola. He urged the newly inaugurated executives to build on the achievements of their predecessors, while encouraging outgoing leaders to provide continued support for a smooth transition.

The ceremony was attended by several prominent religious and institutional figures, including Reverend David Olawuyi, Chaplain of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH); Reverend Dr. Femi Babajide of the University of Ilorin; Dr. Hezekiah Olaleye, Chaplain of the Federal Polytechnic, Ede; and Deacon Ayo Akinteye of the Federal College of Education (Special), Oyo.

Also present were key management staff of Federal Polytechnic Ayede, including the Registrar, Mrs. Bukola Elizabeth Dairo; Acting Polytechnic Librarian, Mr. Dare Samuel Adeleke; Deputy Registrar and Director of SERVICOM, Mr. G.K. Olantinwo, represented by Mrs. Janet Odebunmi; Dean of the School of Engineering Technology, Engr. Dr. Oluwafemi Jacob Ayangbekun; Director of Research Development, Innovation and Grants Management, Dr. Kehinde Abraham Odelade; Director of the Centre for Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development, Mr. Oluwaseun Owojori; and Director of the Centre for Information, Communication and Public Relations, Mr. Sunday Adepoju, alongside staff and students.

The inauguration marks a new phase for the Christian Community at Federal Polytechnic Ayede, with expectations of strengthened spiritual engagement, leadership development, and positive impact across the campus community.