The Prelate of Methodist Church Nigeria, Dr. Oliver Ali Aba JP, yesterday tuesday, 16th December paid a historic visit to Ikorodu Diocese of the Church.
The visit is coming 2 years after the prelate assumed office as the head of the Methodist Church, Nigeria.
The Church leader equally paid homage to the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, Oba Engr Kabiru Adewale Shotobi, GCIO at his palace, before heading to Ogijo, a neighbouring Ogun State community where he formally dedicated the Ebenezer Methodist Church, located at Ikotun Crescent, Ogijo, in a spiritually significant ceremony marked by prayer, unity, and renewed commitment to faith and leadership.
The dedication formed part of the Prelate’s pastoral and familiarization tour of Ikorodu, two years after assuming office. During the tour, the Eminence demonstrated deep pastoral oversight by engaging closely with the congregation, strengthening bonds with clergy and worshippers, and reinforcing the church’s mission within the community.
At the palace of the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, the cleric’s visit was marked by prayers and discussions centred on faith, leadership, peace, and socio-cultural development. The Eminence, in his discussions with Oba Shotobi reaffirmed the readiness of the Church to collaborate with traditional institutions, stressing that meaningful national progress requires unity across spiritual, traditional, and political leadership.
Addressing the congregation during the dedication service, the Prelate expressed appreciation for the gathering, stating, “We come together to pray and to see one another face to face,” emphasizing the importance of fellowship, visibility, and shared spiritual responsibility within the body of Christ.
Speaking on the significance of the visitation, the Bishop of the Methodist Diocese of Ikorodu, Rev. Dr. Samson Oluoshudino, described the pastoral tour as a core responsibility of the Prelate. According to him, such visits enable the spiritual leader to understand the reach of the church, pray for the nation, offer guidance, and strengthen unity among believers.
He noted that the Diocese of Ikorodu remains one of the premier dioceses of the Methodist Church Nigeria, adding that the visitation reinforces the truth that “God is not far from us.” He further explained that the Prelate’s presence fosters familiarity, unity, and renewed commitment among church members, inspiring them to do more in service to God and humanity.
The Bishop also lauded the leadership style of the Eminence, describing him as a leader who exemplifies excellence, positively influences lives, and commands respect both within and beyond the church. Reflecting on the Prelate’s remarks to the Kabiyesi, he affirmed the church’s belief in unity in diversity, stressing that the church cannot operate in isolation but must work in harmony with traditional rulers and political leaders to advance peace and national development.
In an exclusive interview, Dr. Ayodele Ajayi, former President of the Methodist Diocese of Ikorodu, described the visit as a historic apostolic visitation. He said it provided a rare opportunity for members to reconnect deeply with God, noting that worship led by the church’s spiritual head carries profound impact for the Methodist faithful.
Dr. Ajayi further revealed a touching historical connection, stating that the Ayangburen of Ikorodu attended Methodist Primary School and served as a choir member in his early years before ascending the throne. He described the palace visit as a special moment for both the congregation and the royal father, adding that the Prelate’s presence would inspire other Methodist denominations and nurture future leaders who would emerge as beacons of hope from within the church.
Concluding his remarks, Dr. Ajayi urged Christians to remain faithful to Jesus Christ, describing the season as a significant period in the Christian calendar. He reminded believers of the message of Christmas — Emmanuel, God with us — and extended warm wishes for a joyful Christmas celebration and a prosperous New Year.
