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Empowering the Next Generation: Don Bosco ANN Province Receives Monumental IT and Educational Shipment from Austrian Donors

by with No Comment ANN ProvinceSalesian CommunitySalesians of Don BoscoYouth FormationYouth Ministry

LAGOS, NIGERIA — August 20, 2026 — In a historic milestone for digital literacy and vocational training in Nigeria, a massive shipment containing approximately 400 desktop computers, specialised Apple workstations, and extensive networking and classroom equipment has safely arrived at the Salesian Provincial House in Lagos.

The arrival of the container on August 19, 2026, marks the triumphant conclusion of several months of international logistical operation spearheaded by Prof. Anton Edl of Austria. The project, which commenced in April 2026, represents a powerful partnership between Austrian benefactors and the Salesian Province of Africa Nigeria Niger (ANN) to bridge the digital divide for thousands of underprivileged Nigerian youth.

A Lifetime of Gratitude: The Story Behind the Donation
The seed for this partnership was sown on April 22, 2026, when Prof. Anton Edl initiated discussions to donate high-quality refurbished IT systems to the Salesians of Don Bosco in Nigeria. For Prof. Edl, this massive philanthropic gesture stems from a deeply personal connection to the Salesian mission.

“I grew up in a Don Bosco home in Austria when I was young,” Prof. Edl shared, explaining his lifelong appreciation for the organisation’s work in raising and empowering young people. To make this donation a reality, Prof. Edl partnered with members of his local Austrian parish, who volunteered their time to help sort, pack, and prepare the massive consignment for its maritime journey.

Cutting-Edge Technology to Power Technical Education
The donation was meticulously curated to meet the diverse technical, educational, and creative needs of the province’s youth. Unlike typical generic donations, the equipment consists of robust, high-specification systems tailored for modern learning:

High-Performance Refurbished PCs: Approximately 400 desktop computers, complete with 24-inch flat-panel TFT monitors, mice, and licensed Windows 11 operating systems. To ensure longevity and reliable performance, each machine is configured with at least 8GB of RAM and fast solid-state drives (SSDs).
Specialist Graphic Workstations: A selection of Apple computers specifically designated for advanced video editing and graphic design training.
Enterprise Networking Infrastructure: Three enterprise-grade servers, network switches, and extensive lengths of cabling to build local area networks (LANs) across multiple vocational schools.
Multidisciplinary Tools: Projectors, professional audio recording equipment, digital interfaces, and wireless headphones to support music and multimedia studios.
Classroom Furniture: Sturdy school desks and chairs collected to furnish newly established Salesian classrooms in developing regions.

Local Strategic Collaboration and Technical Planning
To ensure the equipment delivers maximum long-term value, the ANN Province mobilised a specialised technical and planning team. Under the financial and administrative oversight of Fr Raphael Airoboman, the Provincial Economer and Director of the Project Development Office (PDO), the province worked collectively to map out its exact requirements.

Cletus Linus Etukakpan, the Coordinator of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) for the ANN Province, spearheaded the consolidation of a detailed institutional “wish list”. Other key technical leaders included Br Sam Job, who leads the Social Communications department, and Fr Moses Paul Uwora, an expert in systems management and networking who manages the “Art 43 Studio” after-school creative space.

To overcome local infrastructural challenges, the province’s technical team designed a sustainable deployment plan. Given the instability of the local power grid, communities receiving the desktop computers will utilise solar power installations, ensuring a clean and continuous energy supply for the students.

Navigating the Logistical Journey
Shipping 135 heavily packed parcels across 11 pallets from the heart of Europe to West Africa was a formidable logistical feat. The container officially departed Austria on June 17, 2026, embarking on a long sea voyage. The vessel carrying the container docked at Apapa Port in Lagos on August 1, 2026, before the container was transferred to the Tin Can Island Port terminal. Fr Raphael Airoboman and the PDO team worked closely with local shipping and customs clearance agents to navigate the rigorous administrative clearances, including the Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR). Despite initial clearing benchmarks that went up to several millions in duties, the administrative processes were successfully resolved, and the container was cleared on August 14, 2026, before its final delivery to the Provincial House.

Broad Geographical Distribution and Youth Impact
The newly received IT equipment and furniture will be distributed strategically across several states and regional hubs in Nigeria to maximise its educational impact:

Vocational Upgrades: Upgrading the province’s four Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and Vocational Training Centres (VTC) to meet international standards.
Support for New Schools: Distributing classroom furniture and computer labs to newly established Salesian schools in the Northern regions, the Middle Belt, and Benin.
Regional Outreach: Establishing IT learning centres in Ondo, Ogidi, Ibadan, Uyo, and Lagos.
Creative and Medical Sectors: Equipping the Art 43 creative studios with multimedia gear and providing essential support to two Salesian-run clinics.

Sincere Gratitude and a Solemn Commitment to Good Stewardship
With the cargo now safely arrived, the Provincial of the ANN Province, speaking on behalf of the provincial administration, all Salesian communities, and the thousands of young beneficiaries across Nigeria, has expressed profound, heartfelt gratitude to the generous donors in Austria.

Special recognition and deepest thanks go to Prof. Anton Edl, whose leadership, vision, and deep love for the Salesian mission made this monumental project possible. The province also extends its appreciation to the dedicated volunteers from the Austrian parish who poured their energy into packing and organising this shipment.

The Provincial and the ANN Province leadership have formally pledged to make every possible effort to ensure that all regional centres, classrooms, and clinics receive their designated items safely. The province is fully committed to maintaining, protecting, and putting these state-of-the-art tools to the highest and most productive use, fulfilling Prof. Edl’s inspiring charge to “do your best and make Don Bosco proud”. This donation marks a transformative new chapter for technical education in Nigeria, empowering countless young people to build a brighter, more digitally inclusive future.

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Faithful Gather to Honour Late Archbishop Augustine Obiora Akubeze at Memorial Mass in Benin City

by with No Comment ANN ProvinceCommunitySalesian Community

The Salesian community joined the faithful of the Archdiocese of Benin City today for a Memorial Holy Mass in honour of the late Most Rev. Dr Augustine Obiora Akubeze, former Archbishop of the Metropolitan See of Benin City.

The Eucharistic celebration was held at Regina Mundi Catholic Church, Evbuarhue, Benin City, bringing together clergy, religious, and lay faithful in prayerful remembrance of the late prelate, whose episcopal ministry was marked by dedicated pastoral service, unwavering faith, and a deep commitment to the mission of the Church.

Throughout the celebration, prayers of thanksgiving were offered for Archbishop Akubeze’s life and years of faithful service as a shepherd of God’s people. Those present reflected on his enduring legacy of leadership, humility, and devotion, which continues to inspire the local Church and all who had the privilege of working alongside him.

As the Church continues to remember the late Archbishop with gratitude, the faithful entrusted his soul to the infinite mercy of God, praying that the Good Shepherd, whom he served so faithfully throughout his priestly and episcopal ministry, may welcome him into the fullness of eternal life.

“Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.”

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Salesian Mission in Ijebu-Ode Records Steady Pastoral and Infrastructure Growth

by with No Comment ANN ProvinceDon Bosco InstituteDonBoscoTechAfricaSalesian CommunitySalesians in AfricaSalesians of Don Bosco

The Salesian mission in the Catholic Diocese of Ijebu-Ode has made significant progress in both its pastoral ministry and infrastructure development during the first half of 2026, despite encountering several challenges.

The mission has continued to experience steady spiritual growth among parishioners while advancing several key projects to strengthen pastoral outreach and improve facilities.

Among the major milestones is the completion of the new church building at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Imaweje. The mission also completed the construction of a Marian Grotto dedicated to Mary Help of Christians at the Parish Centre in Ikoto, providing a new space for prayer and devotion.

Work is also progressing at the TASFUED Chaplaincy in Ijagun, where the installation of a PVC ceiling is currently underway. Meanwhile, construction activities have resumed at the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Centre in Ikoto, marking another step forward in the Salesians’ commitment to youth formation and skills development.

The achievements have been attributed to God’s providence, the dedication of the Salesian community, the continued support of the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Ijebu-Ode, and the leadership of the Provincial.

The Salesian community has also expressed its appreciation to benefactors, donors, parishioners, and friends of Don Bosco whose generosity and prayers continue to sustain the mission’s pastoral and developmental initiatives.

As work continues across the mission, the Salesians remain committed to building God’s Kingdom through the charism of St. John Bosco by fostering faith, education, and integral human development in the communities they serve.

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Gratitude and Growth: Mark’s Visit to Tse-Mker Community

by with No Comment ANN ProvinceSalesian CommunitySalesians in AfricaYouth Formation

We join in thanksgiving as the Tse-Mker community continues to witness remarkable growth and development, made possible through God’s providence and the generous support of benefactors.

During a recent visit to the community, the Provincial Economer, Fr Raphael, expressed his joy at the stability and positive atmosphere within the house. He noted with satisfaction that the brothers currently on holiday are well settled and thriving. Many of them have even jokingly expressed their desire to continue their Philosophy studies in Tse-Mker if the opportunity becomes available.

The visit also highlighted the significant progress made across the mission. Among the completed and ongoing projects are the construction of modern toilet facilities, the renovation of student hostels, the drilling of a borehole to provide clean water, the ongoing construction of the community chapel, the partial completion of the school’s perimeter fence, the installation of a solar power system to ensure reliable electricity, the provision of computers to enhance learning, and the awarding of scholarships to deserving students.

These achievements stand as visible signs of God’s blessings and the unwavering generosity of donors who continue to place their confidence in the Province’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and responsible stewardship.

As you reflect on these milestones, we are encouraged to give thanks to God for His abundant blessings and to remember in your prayers the benefactors whose generosity continues to transform lives, strengthen the mission, and build a brighter future for the people of Tse-Mker.

Dr Bisola Otunla delivering a talk on mental health at the ANN Salesian Family Day

Salesian Family Charts a Common Path for the Mission during Salesian Family Day 2026

by with One Comment ANN ProvinceSalesian CommunitySalesians in AfricaSalesians of Don Bosco

Akure, Nigeria | June 17–20, 2026

The Salesian Family of the Africa Nigeria-Niger (ANN) Province gathered at Mary Help of Christians Parish, Akure, from 17–20 June 2026 for the annual Salesian Family Day, a moment of prayer, formation, fraternity and shared discernment centred on the Rector Major’s Strenna 2026: “Do Whatever He Tells You” (Jn 2:5): Believers, Free to Serve.

This year’s gathering held a special significance as it also marked the Provincial celebration of the 150th Anniversary of the Foundation of the Salesian Cooperators (1876–2026). The jubilee offered an opportunity to give thanks for a century and a half of lay commitment to Don Bosco’s charism while renewing the shared mission of evangelising and educating young people.

The four-day programme brought together members of the various groups of the Salesian Family in the Province under the theme “Together as One Family for the Mission.” Participants took part in conferences on the Strenna, sessions on mental health for mission, family moments, group meetings, the Provincial’s State of the Province address, Eucharistic celebrations and moments of fraternity.

Listening to the Voice that Matters

The highlight of the gathering was an interactive reflection on the Strenna 2026. Working in small groups, participants explored the central question: “Whose voice are we listening to?”

The discussions acknowledged that Nigerian society is filled with competing voices that constantly influence both young people and adults. Participants identified social media, the pressure to succeed at all costs, economic hardship, politics, family expectations, fear, internal struggles and the culture of self-promotion as some of the loudest voices shaping today’s world.

Against this backdrop, the Salesian Family reaffirmed that the voice of Jesus Christ, revealed through the Gospel, must remain the primary guide for every Salesian educator, parent and young person.

To make Christ’s voice more audible in everyday life, participants proposed renewed commitment to prayer, discernment, meditation on the Word of God, faithful living of Don Bosco’s spirituality, mentorship, accompaniment and spiritual direction.

Recognising the “Empty Jars” of Young People

Inspired by the Wedding Feast at Cana, participants reflected on the “empty jars” that characterise the lives of many young people today.

Among the principal challenges identified were spiritual emptiness, unemployment, identity crises, weakening cultural values, neo-paganism, addiction, peer pressure, cyberbullying, cultism, family breakdown, parental pressure, the “Japa” mentality, the desire for quick wealth, distraction and freedom detached from responsibility.

Rather than viewing these realities with pessimism, participants saw them as a call to renew the Preventive System of Don Bosco.

Concrete responses proposed included stronger spiritual accompaniment, guidance and counselling, youth empowerment through skills acquisition and scholarships, responsible use of digital media, greater involvement of families in formation, and increased awareness of the realities affecting young people across the Province.

Choosing the Salesian Way

Reflecting on Mary’s invitation, “Do whatever He tells you,” the groups identified practical commitments for the Province.

They encouraged renewed evangelisation through creative pastoral initiatives, greater outreach to young people beyond Salesian institutions, the use of sports, celebrations and digital media as avenues for evangelisation, inclusion of young people living with disabilities, and stronger educational initiatives for adults where needed.

Participants also challenged the Salesian Family to overcome attitudes that hinder the mission, including distrust of young people and the laity, favouritism, discrimination, the stigmatisation of struggling youth and a lack of intentional pastoral direction.

At the same time, they called for improved youth participation, stronger parent-child relationships, increased Salesian presence among young people, greater appreciation of African cultural values, better succession planning and renewed commitment to fraternal correction within communities.

Becoming Credible Witnesses

The discussions concluded with a shared conviction that the most convincing proclamation of the Gospel is the witness of life.

Participants committed themselves to becoming authentic witnesses of Christ by listening attentively both to Jesus and to young people, creating safe and welcoming environments, strengthening the Preventive System, accompanying young people through friendship and guidance, investing in ongoing formation, organising seminars and workshops, and revitalising the Salesian Family in the Province.

The reflections echoed the conviction that today’s young people are not merely facing problems; they are searching for authentic believers who embody hope and credibility.

Walking Together for the Mission

The celebration concluded with a renewed sense of unity among all branches of the Salesian Family.

As the Province celebrates the 150th Anniversary of the Salesian Cooperators, the gathering reaffirmed that Don Bosco’s mission belongs to the entire Salesian Family—Salesians of Don Bosco, Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, Salesian Cooperators, Past Pupils, Volunteers of Don Bosco, ADMA members and the many collaborators who share responsibility for the education and evangelisation of the young.

Inspired by Mary’s invitation at Cana, the Salesian Family of the Africa Nigeria-Niger Province leaves Salesian Family Day 2026 with a common commitment: to listen first to Christ, to accompany young people with hope, and to journey together as one family in making God’s transforming love visible in today’s world.

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Salesian Cooperators Elect New Executive Council in Lagos

by with No Comment CommunitySalesian CommunitySalesians in Africa

Lagos, Nigeria – February 28, 2026 – The Salesian Cooperators of Don Bosco, St. Joseph’s Community, CCHS, Omole, Lagos, have successfully conducted elections to constitute a new Executive Council (EXCO) to oversee the affairs of the association.

The election, held on Saturday, February 28, 2026, began with an address by the outgoing coordinator, Mr. Rowland Okwechime, who welcomed members and presented a comprehensive report of his six-year tenure. The electoral process was subsequently conducted by the Delegate, Rev. Fr. Nathaniel Akortsaha, SDB, assisted by the laity chairman, in accordance with the guidelines of the Project of Apostolic Life (PAL).

At the conclusion of the exercise, the following members were elected to the new Executive Council:
Coordinator: Mr. Ignatius Anukwu
Secretary: Mrs. Victoria Onuoha
Treasurer: Mrs. Benice Akinyemi
Formator: Mrs. Ngozi Ezenwankwo
Youth Animator: Mrs. Rose Okwechime


In view of the demands of the Youth Animator role, the Delegate nominated Ms. Miriam Akpamgbo to assist in that capacity.
In his remarks, the newly elected Coordinator, Mr. Ignatius Anukwu, expressed appreciation to members for their trust and called on the new EXCO to serve with diligence and commitment, emphasizing that their service is a divine calling to support and guide young people. He also extended gratitude to the outgoing Coordinator, Mr. Okwechime, for his dedication and leadership over the years.


The event concluded with prayers led by Fr. Akortsaha for the newly elected officers, entrusting their responsibilities to God’s guidance. The occasion also featured a group photograph to mark the transition.

Rowland Okwechime – Former Coordinator.

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Provincial Council Meets with Obosi Community and Stakeholders on the Future of TVET in the Province

by with No Comment ANN ProvinceCommunitySalesian Community

The Provincial Council of the Salesian Province met yesterday with the Salesian community in Obosi and key stakeholders to review the current situation of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) within the Province, with particular attention to the situation of the Obosi TVET centre.

The meeting brought together representatives of the Salesian community, members of the Past Pupils association, the Chairman of the Secondary School’s Parents–Teachers Association (PTA), and some members of the school staff. The gathering provided an opportunity for open dialogue and shared reflection on the challenges and opportunities facing Salesian technical education in the Province.

In the spirit of synodality—marked by attentive listening, participation, and a shared search for solutions—the meeting focused on understanding the present realities of the Province’s TVET initiatives. Participants examined the current performance of the centres, levels of student enrolment, and the challenges affecting their operations. At the same time, the discussion highlighted existing strengths and potential areas for growth, identifying gaps that need to be addressed in order to strengthen the mission of technical education for young people, especially the poor and marginalized.

A significant area of discussion concerned certification standards for Salesian technical institutions. Participants emphasized the importance of aligning the Province’s TVET programmes with national accreditation bodies to ensure that training offered in Salesian centres meets recognized professional standards. Such alignment, they noted, is essential for guaranteeing the credibility of Salesian technical training and for enhancing the employability of young graduates.

The meeting also explored ways of improving collaboration among the various centres and stakeholders. Proposals were made for establishing more effective mechanisms for regular communication and joint initiatives, which would allow institutions within the Province to learn from one another and work together more closely. Resource sharing—particularly the sharing of trainers, technical expertise, and equipment—was identified as a practical way to strengthen the quality of training across the Province.

Particular attention was given to the situation of the Obosi TVET centre. Participants discussed the ongoing process of migration and the practical considerations needed to ensure continuity and sustainability of the programme. The conversation highlighted the need for a carefully coordinated transition that safeguards both the educational mission and the interests of the young people served by the institution.

Throughout the discussions, three major themes clearly emerged: the migration process affecting the Obosi TVET, the need for proper certification and accreditation of technical programmes, and the development of a long-term sustainability plan for TVET initiatives in the Province.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to continue working together to strengthen Salesian technical education. Building on the reflections and insights gathered during the dialogue, the Provincial and his Council began further deliberations today to study these points in greater depth and to develop a more concrete action plan for the future of TVET in the Province.

The ongoing discernment reflects the Province’s dedication to ensuring that Salesian technical education remains a credible, sustainable, and effective response to the needs of young people, especially those who stand most in need of opportunity and professional formation.

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Salesian Community in Benin Receives Vehicle to Support Pastoral Mission

by with No Comment ANN ProvinceCommunitySalesian Community

Benin City, Nigeria – The Salesian community in Benin has received a vehicle to support its pastoral and outreach activities, thanks to the generous collaboration between the Province and the Salesian community in Onitsha.

The car, which was carefully repaired and prepared for use, will greatly improve mobility for the community. For some time, the confreres in Benin had faced challenges in carrying out their mission due to the poor condition of their previous pickup vehicle. The newly presented car is expected to strengthen their ability to reach out more effectively to the faithful and the young people they serve.

The community expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Onitsha community and to the Province for their solidarity and support, noting that the gesture reflects the strong spirit of fraternity that sustains the Salesian mission.

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Retreat and Quinquennium Formative Meeting

by with No Comment ANN ProvinceCommunitySalesian CommunitySalesians in Africa

The Retreat and Quinquennium Formative Meeting, held under the theme “Called to Mercy and Compassion” and preached by Fr. Samuel Okwuiedegbe, S.J. and “Salesians formed for the mission” by Fr. Tony Ekezie, SDB, provided an important moment of spiritual renewal and formative reflection for participants.

The retreat emphasised the rediscovery of God’s mercy as the foundation of Christian vocation and ministry. Confreres were invited to recognise that human weaknesses are not obstacles but privileged spaces where God’s grace becomes active. By accepting themselves as the first recipients of divine compassion, they are better disposed to extend understanding, reconciliation, and genuine love to others. The retreat highlighted the call to become instruments of hope, healing, and fraternity, even when living compassion requires sacrifice and generosity.

Building on this spiritual foundation, the Quinquennium Formative Meeting focused on the practical living of the vocation in community and mission. In the first session, facilitated by Fr. Samuel Okwuiedegbe, S.J., attention was given to the importance of affective maturity in priestly and consecrated life. Celibacy was presented not as a rejection of love but as an invitation to love more freely, sincerely, and universally. The reflections stressed the need for emotional balance, self-awareness, and healthy relationships as essential elements for avoiding unhealthy isolation and fostering authentic and joyful ministry.

The second session, facilitated by Fr. Tony Ekezie, SDB. highlighted the significance of the first five years after ordination or final profession as a privileged period for growth in identity and commitment to the Salesian mission, particularly among the young and the poor. Confreres were encouraged to remain open to ongoing formation and to cultivate a healthy integration of prayer and pastoral service. The Eucharist, personal prayer, and the Sacrament of Reconciliation were emphasised as vital sources of strength for sustaining missionary zeal and fostering lasting fruitfulness in ministry.

Finally, the retreat and formative meeting offered Confreres an opportunity to deepen their awareness of God’s mercy while strengthening their commitment to continuous growth, community life, and dedicated service in the Church’s mission.