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.”
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The Provost of Don Bosco Institute of Philosophy, Rev. Fr. Dr. Tolu-Eric Akinboboye SDB, paid an official visit to the Salesian Pontifical University with the aim of strengthening and improving the relationship between the two institutions. The visit provided an important opportunity for dialogue, mutual understanding, and reflection on future academic and institutional collaboration.
During the visit, the provost held separate meetings with the Vice Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Prof. Andrea Bazzolo; the Secretary General of the university, Rev. Fr. Jarosław Rochowiak; and the newly appointed dean of the Faculty of Philosophy, Rev. Fr. Prof. Joshtrom Isaac Kureethadam. The discussions focused on academic cooperation, faculty exchange, research opportunities, institutional support, and the continued formation of students in the Salesian intellectual tradition.
He was accompanied during the visit by Rev. Fr. Joseph Oraegbunam and Rev. Fr. Dr. Matthew Akinyemi, whose presence and contributions enriched the engagements. The meetings were cordial and fruitful, marked by a spirit of Salesian fraternity and a shared commitment to Catholic higher education. Both institutions expressed their readiness to deepen existing ties and explore new avenues of collaboration for the advancement of philosophical and human formation.
The provost expressed optimism that the visit would further strengthen the bond between the Don Bosco Institute of Philosophy and the Salesian Pontifical University and lead to more fruitful collaboration in the years ahead.
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.
01
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.
02
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.
03
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.
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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.
Child Protection agentsFr Daniel AgborFr Linus Onyenagubor – CPC
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.
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.
