Religious Leaders, Scholars and Experts Converge on Ajayi Crowther University for International Conference

Religious leaders, scholars and experts from various academic disciplines have converged on the campus of Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Oyo, for the Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther International Conference.

The conference, which commenced on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, is themed “Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther and Contemporary Africa: Reimagining Faith, Scholarship, Leadership and Nation Building.” It seeks to examine the life and enduring relevance of Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther, the first African Anglican Bishop, while exploring his contributions and legacy in faith, scholarship and leadership.

The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Dr Olutoyin Okeowo, was among the dignitaries present at the event. In his remarks, he highlighted Crowther's contributions as an educationist, entrepreneur, ecumenist, geographer and pharmacist.

To illustrate Crowther's contributions to geography, Dr Okeowo displayed a compass presented to Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther by the Geographical Society of London around 1880–1881 in recognition of his services to geographical exploration in the River Niger region.

He challenged the Department of History at ACU to place the university on the global map by producing a movie documenting the life and times of Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther.

Dr Okeowo pledged the university's support towards actualising the proposed film project, warning that unnecessary delays could allow another institution or individual to take up the initiative.

Earlier, in her welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ebunoluwa Oduwole, welcomed guests and participants to the conference, describing the gathering as more than an academic event. She said it represented a deliberate effort to reposition Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther at the centre of African scholarship, Christianity and nation-building.

She noted that Crowther's journey from slavery to becoming the first African Anglican Bishop in 1864 demonstrated the transformative importance of faith, education, leadership and nation-building.

Highlighting the university's efforts to preserve and promote his legacy, Prof. Oduwole disclosed that ACU had established the Samuel Ajayi Crowther Research Centre, organised international webinar series and constituted a Translation Committee to advance research into his contributions.

She also revealed plans to develop Osoogun, Crowther's hometown, into a heritage and tourist destination, strengthen research collaborations and preserve historical materials relating to his life and works.

The Vice-Chancellor urged participants to actively engage in the conference, noting that papers presented would contribute to publications by the Research Centre and help shape university policies.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Prof. Stephen Solanke, described Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther as more than a Christian missionary.

He highlighted Crowther's contributions as a scholar, linguist, translator and nation-builder, noting that his work continues to influence faith, education, African identity, leadership and development across the continent.

The keynote speaker, the Bishop of Egba Anglican Diocese, Rt. Rev. Dr Emmanuel Adekunle, called for greater recognition and preservation of Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther's legacy.

He urged individuals and institutions to honour Crowther's contributions to education, Christianity, leadership and nation-building.

Bishop Adekunle also extensively discussed Crowther's historical background, remarkable journey, contributions and the challenges he encountered during his lifetime.

He emphasised that despite the numerous obstacles he faced, Crowther remained committed to his faith, education and service to humanity.

He further urged participants to uphold Crowther's ideals and ensure that his contributions are reflected in their actions, decisions and endeavours, stressing that honouring his legacy should go beyond mere remembrance.

The conference seeks to move beyond historical celebration by encouraging participants to critically examine the relevance of Crowther's legacy in addressing contemporary challenges and opportunities in Nigeria and across Africa.

The gathering also highlights the importance of preserving African historical heritage and drawing lessons from influential figures whose contributions continue to shape the continent's religious, educational and intellectual development.