George Ayomide IGE

 

The Catholic Youth Organization of Nigeria (CYON), Ibadan Archdiocese, held her Maiden Executive Formation and Strategic Planning Retreat for the Youth Apostolate from 6th to 8th March, 2026, at St. Padre Pio Capuchin Franciscan Friary, Olunde, Ibadan.

 

The retreat brought together youth leaders across the Archdiocese, including Archdiocesan executives, Deanery Presidents, and Secretaries, for a period of reflection, leadership formation, and strategic planning aimed at strengthening the youth apostolate.

 

The facilitators — Rev. Fr. Philip Egbusie, OP; Sir Adewale Irefin, KSM; and Ambassador Mrs. Edith Isidahomen — guided participants through a series of engaging sessions focused on leadership development, strategic planning, and the future of youth ministry within the archdiocese.

 

The retreat featured seven intensive sessions, each addressing key themes and challenges confronting the youth apostolate. Through discussions, reflections, and collaborative engagements, participants examined the vision and mission of the Church in relation to youth ministry, reflecting on both what the Church expects from young people and the role of the Church in nurturing and empowering them.

 

 

Special attention was given to leadership responsibility, collaboration, and the development of sustainable structures for youth ministry at both the Archdiocesan and Deanery levels.

 

The final session focused on Executive Formation and Strategic Planning, culminating in the development of a clear roadmap and shared vision to guide the administrative tenure of the current Archdiocesan and Deanery executives.

 

The retreat concluded with a Holy Mass celebrated by Rev. Fr. Philip Egbusie, OP, and concelebrated by the Archdiocesan Youth Chaplain, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Eseola, marking a fitting spiritual conclusion to the three-day programme.

 

The retreat is widely seen as a significant step towards strengthening leadership and deepening the mission of the youth apostolate in Ibadan Archdiocese.