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.
Ibadan, Nigeria — The Don Bosco Institute (DBI), Ibadan, today celebrated its Convocation Ceremony, bringing to a close a week-long Students’ Week programme that highlighted academic excellence, community life, and gratitude for the gift of formation.
The convocation marked the culmination of years of intellectual, human, spiritual, and pastoral formation for students enrolled in the Institute’s philosophy programme. The graduating class comprised Salesians of Don Bosco, members of other religious congregations, and lay students who have journeyed together in the pursuit of philosophical studies and personal growth.
The week-long celebration concluded a series of activities aimed at fostering fraternity, reflection, and appreciation for the educational mission of the Institute. The high point of the festivities was the Convocation Ceremony, which celebrated the achievements of the graduating students and their successful completion of an important stage in their academic and vocational journey.
On the eve of the convocation, the graduating class gathered for a solemn Mass of Thanksgiving to express gratitude to God for the blessings, challenges, and accomplishments that characterized their years of study. The Eucharistic celebration provided an opportunity for students, staff, religious communities, and guests to reflect on the transformative role of philosophical formation in preparing young men and women for leadership, service, and ministry.
A particularly moving moment during the celebration was the presentation of a golden bust of St. John Bosco by the graduating class to the Institute. The gift was offered as a lasting sign of appreciation to the institution that has accompanied and nurtured them throughout their years of formation. The bust stands as a symbol of gratitude and a testament to the enduring influence of Don Bosco’s educational vision on the lives of the graduates.
In a congratulatory message, the SS. Versiglia and Caravario Community expressed its joy and pride in the accomplishments of the graduating students.
“We heartily congratulate our final-year students on the occasion of their convocation,” the community stated.
The community paid special tribute to two Salesian confreres whose academic excellence distinguished them among their peers. S. Onoh Kingsley emerged as the Best Graduating Student, while S. Nwokeke Everestus was recognized as the Second Best Graduating Student.
Their remarkable achievement is described as a reflection of their diligence, discipline, commitment to study, and dedication to the pursuit of excellence.
As the graduates prepare to move forward in their respective vocations and professions, the community invoked God’s blessings upon them.
“We pray that God will continue to guide, strengthen, and bless you in your apostolate and future ministry. May the spirit of Don Bosco continue to inspire and accompany you wherever you are sent.”
The Convocation Ceremony served not only as a celebration of academic success but also as a reaffirmation of the Institute’s mission to form intellectually competent, morally grounded, and socially responsible individuals. Through its commitment to philosophical education and holistic formation, the Don Bosco Institute continues to prepare future religious, clergy, and lay leaders for meaningful service in the Church and society.
As the celebrations concluded, the atmosphere was filled with gratitude, hope, and renewed commitment to the values of faith, reason, and service that characterize the Salesian educational tradition.
