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

September 9, 2026

by sjob sdb with No Comment ANN Province Salesian Community Salesians of Don Bosco Youth Formation Youth 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.

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

August 6, 2026

by sjob sdb with No Comment ANN Province Don Bosco Institute DonBoscoTechAfrica Salesian Community Salesians in Africa Salesians 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.

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

August 6, 2026

by sjob sdb with No Comment ANN Province Salesian Community Salesians in Africa Youth 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.

Don Bosco Institute, Ibadan Celebrates Convocation Ceremony as Student Week Concludes

June 26, 2026

by sjob sdb with One Comment Don Bosco Institute Salesians in Africa SDB Formation Youth Formation

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.

JOBITECH Abuja Hosts Training on Green and Digital Competencies for Technical Educators

May 26, 2026

by sjob sdb with One Comment DonBoscoTechAfrica Jobitech Salesians in Africa Salesians of Don Bosco

Abuja, Nigeria – May 25–28, 2026 — The Project Development Office (PDO), through its P-TVET Office, has commenced a four-day Training of Trainers (ToT) programme at JOBITECH Abuja focused on integrating green and digital competencies into revised technical and vocational education curricula.

The training brings together 20 participants drawn from Don Bosco Technical Institutions and the Federal Government Technical College (FGTC), Orozo, Abuja. The programme is designed to strengthen the capacity of trainers in modern pedagogy, digital literacy, environmental sustainability concepts, and contemporary assessment and testing methodologies.

According to the organisers, the initiative aims to equip educators with the competencies required for the effective implementation of revised curricula that are aligned with labour market demands and quality assurance standards. Special emphasis is being placed on innovative teaching methods, practical assessment skills, and the integration of green practices into technical education.

The programme is sponsored by BMZ and Don Bosco Mondo and is being implemented under Global Programme Two (GP2) by Don Bosco Tech Africa in partnership with PDO Nigeria. The initiative reflects an ongoing commitment to advancing technical and vocational education in line with emerging global trends and workforce needs.

Don Bosco Home Child Protection Centre (CPC) Ibadan

April 12, 2026

by annBosco with No Comment ANN Province Salesians in Africa Youth Ministry

Access to Justice: Protect, Not Punish | Bosco Home CPC Ibadan

International Day for Street Children · 2026

Protect,
Not Punish

“Access to Justice: Protect, Not Punish”

📍 Ogungbade, Ibadan 📅 April 9, 2026 🏠 Bosco Home CPC Ibadan

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Against the backdrop of Easter week and the global chorus calling for a fairer world, the Bosco Home Child Protection Centre (CPC) Ibadan convened a powerful roundtable to mark the 2026 International Day for Street Children — held at the SS Versiglia and Caravario Community, Ogungbade, Ibadan.

Anchored by the theme “Access to Justice: Protect, Not Punish,” the event brought together a broad coalition of government agencies, civil society organisations, financial institutions, and community leaders — all united by a single purpose: to confront the systemic failures that leave Nigeria’s most vulnerable children without protection, recourse, or hope.

A Room of Voices, A Nation’s Responsibility

The roundtable drew representatives from an impressive range of stakeholders spanning government, civil society, and the private sector.

Ministry of Women Affairs

Zenith Bank Plc

Public Complaints Commission

NDLEA

FRSC

National Orientation Agency

Community Development Council, Egbeda LGA

Assoc. of Shelter & Homes Operators — Oyo

Child Protection Network, Oyo State

Assoc. of Orphans & Vulnerable Children

Nigeria Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)

Oyo State PTA

The convergence of these voices was itself a statement — that the welfare of street children is not the burden of one ministry or one charity, but a shared national obligation.

Street children are not a problem to be managed. They are children to be protected, heard, and given every access to justice that any child deserves.

The Programme: From Dialogue to Action

The morning began with registration and networking at 9:00 AM at the Don Bosco Child Protection Centre, followed by an opening prayer and the singing of the national, Oyo State, and BCPC anthems. A welcome address by the host organisation set a tone of urgency and partnership, before guests were formally introduced and the day’s objectives outlined.

The keynote address was delivered by Rev. Fr. Linus Onyenagubor, whose presentation on “Understanding the Plight of Street Children and Urgent Interventions” grounded the day’s discussions in lived realities — the daily exposure of children on Nigeria’s streets to exploitation, violence, and a justice system that too often punishes vulnerability rather than protecting it.

Interspersed throughout the proceedings, the Don Bosco Boys offered four presentations — including a welcome song, choreography, and cultural performances — reminding everyone present of who this gathering was truly for: the children themselves.

The roundtable sessions featured four speakers addressing themes of institutional response, community engagement, safeguarding frameworks, and reporting mechanisms. Interactive dialogue followed each presentation, with the open floor session allowing partner organisations to raise questions and forge shared commitments. The event concluded with the development of concrete action points — transforming dialogue into a roadmap for change.

A Full Week of Purpose

The roundtable was the centrepiece of a broader week-long programme of engagement, each day building toward the event’s most visible moment of witness.

April 8, 2026

Welcome of Volunteers

Animators Without Borders arrived at the centre, bringing international solidarity and additional capacity for the days ahead.

April 9, 2026 · Easter Thursday

Roundtable Discussion

The landmark multi-stakeholder forum held at the Youth Centre Hall, 9:00 AM — the heart of the week’s advocacy.

April 10, 2026 · Good Friday

Joint Preparation Meeting

Third-year confreres, BCPC staff, and volunteers gathered at the Youth Centre Hall to prepare for the Street Walk.

April 11, 2026

Street Walk

Beginning at 9:00 AM from Ibadan Gate and Mokola — the message of the week carried directly to the streets, meeting children where they are.

April 12, 2026

Holy Mass at St. Gabriel’s

A closing Mass of thanksgiving and continued intercession — committing the week’s work to God and the children at the heart of this mission.

✦

A Landmark Worth Acknowledging

Special acknowledgement is extended to Rev. Fr. Linus Onyenagubor, whose vision and coordination made this landmark event possible. In a nation where child protection frameworks are often underfunded and inconsistently enforced, gatherings like this one — which bring policy, community, and conscience to the same table — represent exactly the kind of intentional, multi-sector collaboration that sustainable change requires.

Youth Employability Booster Project Celebrates Maiden Graduations Across Nigeria

March 4, 2026

by annBosco with No Comment ANN Province DonBoscoTechAfrica Salesians in Africa Uncategorized Youth Formation Youth Ministry

NIGERIA – In a landmark week for youth empowerment, the Youth Employability Booster Project successfully concluded its maiden graduation ceremonies across three Salesian key hubs: Lagos, Abuja, and Obosi. Supported by the Mastercard Foundation and Young Africa Nigeria, the ceremonies marked a significant milestone in equipping Nigerian youth with the market-ready skills necessary to navigate the modern workforce.

On February 6th, 2026, the Lagos Centre at Iju hosted a prestigious ceremony to honour its first cohort. The event featured high-level industry insights aimed at transitioning graduates from the classroom to the corporate world.

Keynote Address: Mr Mayowa Adanlawo, Business Development Manager at Wema Bank, delivered a powerful charge to the graduands on financial literacy and business growth.
Industry Expertise: Mrs Theresa Amaechi, Head of People, Culture, and Transformation at Workforce Group, shared invaluable perspectives on workplace culture and professional adaptability.
Partnership: The event was graced by representatives from the Mastercard Foundation and Young Africa Nigeria, underscoring the collaborative effort behind the project’s success.

In Ibolo Obosi, the atmosphere was vibrant as the Young Africa International/Don Bosco Initiatives Mobile Training Cohort 1 celebrated its completion.

A total of 114 participants graduated after intensive training across diverse skill areas. This cohort, specifically sponsored by the Mastercard Foundation, highlighted the “life-changing” nature of the mobile training model, which brings high-quality vocational education directly to local communities.

The celebrations kicked off earlier in the week on February 4th, 2026, at the Abuja Centre in Kubwa. The maiden ceremony was described as a moment of deep reflection and inspiration.

Organisers praised the graduands for their consistency and determination, noting that this graduation is not just an end, but a “meaningful step forward” in their professional journeys. Like the Lagos event, the Abuja ceremony was bolstered by the presence of key partners who reaffirmed their commitment to empowering Nigerian youth with future-proof skills.

Staff Formation and Safeguarding Workshops: ANN Province

February 20, 2026

by sjob sdb with No Comment ANN Province Salesians in Africa SDB Formation Uncategorized Youth Ministry

Fr James Ailen conducting the Safeguarding Workshop at Ibadan

The Salesian communities within the ANN Province recently conducted a series of strategic formation sessions aimed at fostering professional synergy and reinforcing our commitment to child protection. These sessions were held at the Ibadan (Post-Novitiate) community on February 19, followed by workshops at Mary Help of Christians, Akure, and St. Jude Science and Technical College, Tse-Mker, today, February 20.

Strengthening Team Synergy

Each program commenced with interactive team-building exercises and icebreakers. These activities were designed to alleviate professional stress and cultivate a genuine “family spirit”—a cornerstone of our educational philosophy—ensuring that staff members across all departments are aligned in mission and morale.

Reaffirming Our Commitment to Safeguarding

A central component of these gatherings was a comprehensive review of the Safeguarding Policy. This session served two critical purposes:

Onboarding: Newly appointed staff members formally committed to the protection of young people and vulnerable adults.
Professional Development: Established staff engaged in a collaborative exchange of best practices regarding the safety and well-being of those in our care.

Our Core Philosophy

The provincial mandate remains clear: young people in our institutions must not only be safe in principle but must feel safe in practice. Through collective vigilance and shared responsibility, we continue to uphold the highest standards of institutional integrity.

Together, we are capable of achieving this vital mission.

Ss, Versiglia and Caravario Community, Ibadan

Fr Joshua Pilaku conducting the staff and students of St Jude Science and Technical College, Tse-Mker

St Joseph the Worker community, Tse-Mker

Mary Help of Christians community, Akure

NOVENA TO SAINT JOHN BOSCO

February 6, 2026

by social socialcommunication with No Comment Catechises Salesians in Africa Youth Ministry

(22ND-30TH JANUARY)

“We should say little about Don Bosco but a great deal like Don Bosco.” – (Venerable Fr Joseph Quadrio SDB)

The Novena can be inserted in the evening prayer (A) or take the place of the spiritual reading (B)

A: Novena within the Evening Prayer

Oh God, come to our aid…/glory be…

Hymn from the evening prayer of the day

Introducing the theme of the day

Divine office/evening prayers

Scripture/input

Magnificat Antiphon/magnificat

Intercessory prayers from the Novena

Novena prayer to St John Bosco

Our father

Concluding prayer

Hymn to Don Bosco

Novena_to_St_John_Bosco_Versiglia_&_Caravario (2)Download

Remember that the Salesian Proper is used on the 22nd January (Blessed Laura Vicuna), 24th (Saint Francis de Sales), and 30th (Blessed Bronislas Markiewicz)

Youth Coordinators and Youth Ministry Commission Meeting of the Salesians of Don Bosco

January 28, 2026

by social socialcommunication with No Comment Salesians in Africa Youth Ministry

Africa Nigeria- Niger Province- The Youth Coordinators and Youth Ministry Commission Meeting of the Salesians of Don Bosco, Africa Nigeria–Niger Province, was held from 18th to 23rd January 2026 at the Provincial House, Iju, Lagos, under the theme “Do Whatever He Tells You.” The meeting was organized by the Youth Ministry Sector to strengthen formation, leadership, coordination, and collaboration in provincial youth ministry.

All Youth Coordinators of the province were in attendance, except those from Niger Republic. Also present were Mr. Anthony Ogunsusi and Mrs. Faith Onwubuya (Youth Ministry), Fr. Daniel Omatu (Formation Department), Fr. Linus (National Coordinator, Social Services), and Fr. Peter Gbertyo (Regional Coordinator, Social Services).

Facilitation was provided by Fr. Rafael Benajardo, General Councillor for Youth Ministry; Fr. Jerry (Youth Ministry Office, Rome); Rev. Fr. Peter Wojnarowski (Don Bosco Fambul, Sierra Leone); Dr. (Mrs.) Olotu, professional counsellor; Mr. Cletus Etukanpan (TVET); staff of the Provincial Development Office (PDO); The Vice Provincial, Rev. Fr. James Ailen; Fr. Matthew Idoko; and Fr. Omoniyi Stephen, Provincial Councillor for Salesian Mission.

The programme consisted of focused formation sessions, workshops, meetings, and sharing moments addressing moral and spiritual formation, leadership development, safeguarding, and effective youth accompaniment. The meeting was well-coordinated, participatory, and impactful, reinforcing provincial youth ministry priorities, strengthening collaboration, and renewing commitment to the Salesian mission of serving young people.