The Catholic Diocese of Oyo is proud to announce that one of her esteemed youth, Miss Adesokan Francisca Adekayowa, who has been serving diligently as the Diocesan General Secretary, has recently emerged as the National Secretary of the Catholic Youth Organization of Nigeria (CYON). Her election took place at the recently concluded National Executive Council meeting of the Catholic Youth Organization of Nigeria, held in Kaduna, on 16 November, 2024.

 

This remarkable feat which highlights Francisca's commitment and leadership, is a testimony of the diligence of all the members of the Catholic Youth Organization of Oyo Diocese. The newly appointed National Secretary, like each active member of the Youth in her home Diocese of Oyo, has a proven track record of excellence in service, and she is sure to use her natural gifts, skills and passion to contribute significantly to the organization's mission at the national level.

 

This success story is not only a testament to the continuous support, encouragement and insistence of the Bishop, Most. Rev. Emmanuel Badejo, to the youth, to be responsible and responsive to the Church’s call to active participation, but also reflects the collective efforts of our dedicated priests, religious, and staunch lay faithful, to the integral development of the youth, who are no longer just the future of the Church, but the present of Church. We give special kudos to Chief Mrs. Mojisola Ladipo, who in past years had encouraged and empowering the younger generation to take up leadership roles within the Church and society.

 

It is noteworthy that the Catholic Youth Organization of Nigeria, started in 1974 in the Old Oyo Diocese through the initiative of the Bishop Emeritus of Oyo, Most Rev. Julius Babatunde Adelakun, as the Catholic Youth Asssociation, before it spread to other parts of Nigeria. Hence this year, the Catholic Dioceses of Oyo and Osogbo, which formed the old Oyo Diocese before the creation of Osogbo Diocese, are celebrating the Golden Jubilee of the Association. It is not a coincidence that one of the youths from the Diocese has been elected into the office as the National Secretary. It only speaks to the track record of the Diocese of Oyo.

 

Miss Francisca Adekayowa Adesokan, is a native of Iseyin. She attended St. Joseph Catholic Nursery and Primary School, Iseyin, St. Thomas More College, Iseyin. She is a graduate of French Language from the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife. Apart from her native Yoruba language, she speaks English and French fluently. The entire Diocese of Oyo extends heartfelt congratulations and promises her every necessary support as she embarks on this new journey of service.