PHOTOS: Oyo Govt’ Marks Independence Day with Songs, Prayers, and Reflections at St. Peter’s Anglican Church

Oyo State Government on Sunday joined Nigerians across the country to celebrate the nation’s 64th Independence Day anniversary with a thanksgiving service at St. Peter’s Anglican Church, Aremo.

The Secretary to the Oyo State Government (SSG),Professor Olanike Kudirat Adeyemo, led the state’s delegation to the church service, which was attended by top government officials, traditional leaders, and members of the community.

In her remarks, the SSG reiterated the state government’s commitment to promoting unity, peace, and development in Oyo State.

“We are gathered here today to give thanks to God for the gift of independence and to reflect on our journey as a nation,” Prof Adeyemo said. “As we celebrate this milestone, we reaffirm our commitment to working together towards a brighter future for our state and country.”

The church service featured soul-stirring prayers, uplifting hymns, and thought-provoking readings, culminating in a powerful sermon delivered by Very Reverend Samuel K. Olawoyin. Reflecting on the theme “Love as the Summary of Law,” Very Revd. Olawoyin emphasized the imperative of embracing love, peace, and unity in Nigeria.

“Love is the foundation of our existence, the thread that weaves our diversity into a beautiful tapestry,” Very Revd. Olawoyin stressed. “As Nigerians, we must recognize that love is the summary of the law, the guiding principle that should shape our interactions and relationships.”

Very Revd. Olawoyin urged the congregation to eschew hatred, bitterness, and division, instead embracing the transformative power of love. “Let us love one another, even as God loves us,” he implored. “Let us seek to understand, to forgive, and to reconcile.”

The cleric’s message resonated deeply with the congregation, who were visibly moved by his words. The service concluded with a heartfelt prayer for Nigeria, led by Reverend Olawoyin, who prayed for peace, unity, and progress in the country.

Speaking with journalists after the service, Commissioner for Youth and Sports,Hon. Wasilat Adegoke , described the programme as a symbol of the state government’s dedication to promoting national unity.

The thanksgiving service was attended by Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni, Revd.Idowu Ogedengbe as Executive Assistant (Administration), DG, Oyo State Agency for Persons with Disabilities, Barrister Ayodele Adekanmbi, Chairman Ona Ara Local Government, Executive Assistant to Governor on Sports Development, Engr Akin Akinleye, Dr. Kolapo Temitope Glorious, Executive Chairman of Ona Ara Local Government and other top government officials.

This momentous occasion demonstrates our administration’s unshakeable resolve to honour our religion traditions and strengthen the bonds of national unity.” Adegoke said.