It is said that recognition is not about rewarding a single act but honoring a lifetime of dedication. This was the gesture of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Oyo State chapter, as the association honored Monsignor Emmanuel Bolaji Yakubu for his service to the Association on the 12th of December, 2024, during the CAN, Oyo State Chapter 5th Christmas Carol celebration at CAN Oyo State Secretariat, Ijokodo, Ibadan.

This Award of Excellence was in recognition for his relentless and tireless effort in building the body of Christ, particularly in Oyo State CAN.

Monsignor Yakubu was the First Vice Chairman of CAN, Oyo State Chapter, a post he held for eight (8) years (2013 - 2021) representing the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN) block in CAN. According to stories heard which made him to win the respect of the association, when he was nominated to take over the mantle of leadership as the State Chairman of the Association on the demise of the then Chairman, he declined and advised the association to get someone from the block that the deceased Chairman came from. This was a great surprise to the executive members as it was not expected.

He has represented the Catholic Church well and in particular the Catholic Diocese of Oyo. At the Award Giving Ceremony were the delegates from the Catholic Diocese of Oyo; Rev. Fr. Francis Ogunsola, Rev. Fr. John Irekiigbe, Mr. Emmanuel Lashilola, Mr George Ogunsina, Mrs Margaret Okeola and Mrs Victoria Odewole. Many of the delegates are Diocesan representatives at the state CAN. It was a worthwhile honor for Monsignor Emmanuel Yakubu. May God bless his service to Christianity. Amen.