Ajayi Crowther University Blesses New Chapel, Opens Facility for Official Use

Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Oyo, has officially blessed and committed its newly completed chapel to God for use, marking a significant milestone in the institution's development.

The ceremony took place on Saturday, October 17, 2026, and attracted staff, students and members of the university community. The completion of the chapel fulfils a long-standing aspiration of the institution under the leadership of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ebunoluwa Oduwole.

During the service, Professor Oduwole read from 1 Kings 8:22–30, which recounts Solomon's prayer of dedication, and prayed for the fulfilment of God's promises to the university.

Delivering the exhortation, the Bishop of Oyo Diocese, Rt. Rev. Dr Olugbenga Oduntan, congratulated the Vice-Chancellor, her management team, the University Council, Senate, staff and students on the achievement.

He described the chapel as a place dedicated to God's glory and spiritual transformation, noting that the university's motto, “Raising Godly Intellectuals,” was reflected in the moral soundness and spiritual uprightness of its students.

Bishop Oduntan emphasised that the chapel's influence should extend beyond its physical structure to lecture halls, offices, hostels, homes and the wider society. He urged the university community to make the facility a centre for spiritual growth, salvation, empowerment and the fulfilment of divine purpose.

He further declared that Jesus Christ remained the foundation of the university, stressing that the chapel should occupy a central position in the institution's activities.

The bishop encouraged the congregation to remain focused on Jesus Christ, whom he described as the author and finisher of faith, assuring them that those who trust in Him would not be disappointed.

He subsequently led the congregation in prayers of surrender and renewed commitment, declaring God's presence in the chapel.

Additional prayers were offered by clergymen and the Vice-Chancellor, while the Bishop of Oyo South Diocese, Rt. Rev. Dr Ebenezer Familoni, concluded the prayer session and prayed for the university's leadership.

In her address, Professor Oduwole expressed confidence that God would expand the university's reach and urged students to make effective use of the chapel as a place of prayer and spiritual development.

She also expressed appreciation to the stakeholders who contributed to the project, particularly the Supra Board West, the Primate, the Board of Trustees and the University Council.

The Vice-Chancellor confirmed that the chapel had been officially opened for use following the blessing, while a formal dedication and commissioning ceremony would be held at a later date.

The newly completed chapel represents a major achievement for Ajayi Crowther University, bringing to fruition a long-held aspiration of the university community under Professor Oduwole's leadership.