Michael OKEOLA

 

The Catholic Diocese of Oyo witnessed a historic and deeply significant moment as the Supreme Knight of the Knights of St. Mulumba Nigeria, Sir Steve Zakari Adehi, SAN, led a high-powered delegation on a courtesy visit to the Bishop of Oyo Diocese, Most Rev. Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo.

 

The visit marked a monumental chapter in the spiritual growth and pastoral development of the rural Church in the Diocese, bringing together distinguished national and metropolitan officers of the Order in an atmosphere filled with fraternity, reverence, and renewed commitment to evangelization and service.

 

The delegation was warmly received by the Diocese alongside members of the Knights of St. Mulumba. The hosting Grand Knight of the Ibadan Sub-Council, Sir Dr. Theophilus Ajobiewe, formally introduced the visiting dignitaries, including the Supreme Knight of the Knights of St. Mulumba Nigeria, Sir Steve Zakari Adehi; the Supreme Advocate of KSM Nigeria, Sir Titus Olasupo Achaolu, SAN; the Metro Grand Knight of Ibadan Metro, Sir Engr. Lucas Ajibade Ijasan; the Deputy Metro Grand Knight of Ibadan Metro, Sir Dr. Nicholas Dosumu; the Past Metro Grand Knight of Ibadan Metro, Sir William Otoba; alongside other notable officers and members of the Order.

 

During the introductions, Bishop Badejo paid glowing tribute to Sir Dr. Theophilus Ajobiewe, describing him as a committed pillar of the Diocese whose dedication and consistency have contributed immensely to the growth of the local Church. The Bishop particularly commended his efforts in recruiting younger members into the Knighthood and remaining steadfast in service to the Church long before his episcopal installation.

 

Addressing the gathering, Sir Steve Adehi applauded the remarkable level of development within the Diocese, noting that what he encountered far exceeded his expectations for a rural missionary environment. He praised the quality of infrastructure, organization, and pastoral vision evident across the Diocese, describing them as reflections of intentional and visionary leadership.

 

In what many described as a groundbreaking development, the Supreme Knight announced a special concession by the Supreme Council to facilitate the establishment of a dedicated sub-council in Oyo Diocese. The membership threshold required for the creation of a sub-council was officially reduced from forty to twenty-five members, a move aimed at encouraging growth and strengthening the presence of the Order within rural communities.

 

The announcement formed part of the Order’s newly declared “Year of Increase,” a national initiative focused on recruiting younger members and revitalizing the charitable and evangelical mission of the Knights of St. Mulumba.

 

The Supreme Knight further challenged members of the Order to extend their mission beyond urban centers into smaller communities and villages, emphasizing that true Knighthood is rooted in sacrifice and service through the giving of one’s time, treasure, and talent for the advancement of God’s kingdom.

 

Responding, Bishop Badejo described the visit as a historic pastoral encounter that reassures rural Catholic communities that they remain an important part of the universal Church. Reflecting on the liturgical period between the Ascension and Pentecost, the Bishop urged the Knights to translate their faith into visible acts of support for rural communities where the Church often struggles due to migration and limited resources.

 

The Bishop stressed that the presence of the Supreme Knight in Oyo sent a powerful message that the “missionary peripheries” are not forgotten, reaffirming that the Knights of St. Mulumba remain a pastorally driven body dedicated to evangelization and the strengthening of the Church everywhere.

 

He also highlighted the sacrifices and dedication of several local Knights, including Sir Michael Oladokun, whose artistic contributions have beautified numerous parishes, alongside others like Sir Adigun and Sir Ojo, whom he described as ever-ready servants of the Lord.

 

Following the meeting, the Supreme Knight, Sir Steve Zakari Adehi, SAN, granted an interview where he shared deeper reflections on the Diocese, the mission of the Knights, and the role of young Catholics in the Church today.

 

Speaking on his impressions of the Diocese, Sir Adehi admitted that the level of development and organization he encountered in Oyo Diocese went far beyond what he initially expected.

 

“Coming in here, I didn’t expect anything spectacular, but what I saw has exceeded my expectations,” he stated.

 

He further explained that the structures, quality of development, and organization within the Diocese reflected the intentional leadership and focused mindset of the Bishop.

 

“The structures, the physical development, and the quality of work here show the quality of mind behind it. The Bishop is organized, focused, and intentional about what he does. I am really impressed with the quality of priests, the development, and everything I have seen around.”

 

He prayed for God’s continued blessings upon Bishop Badejo and for more faithful collaborators to support the mission of the Diocese.

 

Speaking on the Knights within the Diocese, the Supreme Knight praised their dedication and willingness to use their gifts in service to the Church.

 

“As Knights, we are expected to give our time, treasure, and talents in service to the Church.”

 

He referenced several members highlighted by the Bishop, applauding those who have contributed through their artistic talents, financial support, and active involvement in Church development.

 

“The artist is using his talent in service of the Church. Sir Anthony Ogunsola who built the Church is using his treasure in service of the Church. Even young people helping in social development are using their time and talents to serve God.”

 

Sir Adehi noted that the visible commitment of members within the Diocese played a major role in his immediate approval of the concession for the establishment of a sub-council in Oyo.

 

“This is clearly a place with committed people who are willing to work. Opening a sub-council here will encourage more people to participate and do more for the Church.”

 

Reflecting on his multiple responsibilities as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Supreme Knight of the Knights of St. Mulumba, and National President of the Papal Knights in Nigeria, Sir Adehi acknowledged the challenges of balancing the various roles but attributed his strength and success entirely to God.

 

“It is quite challenging, but God has been very helpful. I thank God especially for the gift of good health and wisdom. Everything I do depends on God’s direction.”

 

Addressing Catholic youths across Nigeria, the Supreme Knight encouraged young people to remain steadfast in their faith and become actively involved in the life and mission of the Church.

 

“Being Catholic is something I am truly proud of. Anyone who understands the richness and teachings of the Church knows this is the ultimate place to be.”

 

Sharing his personal journey of serving the Church from a young age, he urged youths to trust completely in God and remain faithful despite the pressures of the modern world.

 

“There is nothing I have achieved that did not come from God. Young people should put their faith and trust in Him. God never abandons His people.”

 

The historic visit concluded with renewed hope and commitment among both the visiting leadership and the faithful of Oyo Diocese, as plans for expansion, youth empowerment, and the strengthening of the rural Church continue to gather momentum under the banner of faith, service, and fraternity.