Ogun To Return Missionary Schools to Original Owners

Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has announced plans to return missionary schools to their original owners, reviving a policy that could improve education partnerships and outcomes in the state.

He made this known on Friday in Abeokuta while receiving Michael Francis Crotty and senior Catholic leaders at the Government House.

The meeting included Bishops Francis Obafemi Adesina and Peter Odetoyinbo, alongside other church officials.

“We will return all missionary schools to their owners.”

Consequently, the move signals a shift toward faith-based collaboration in education delivery across Ogun State.

“It is not our policy to do it alone.”

“We need to join hands with private individuals, and we encourage partnership with the Church.”

Meanwhile, the governor linked the decision to the long-standing role of religious institutions in education and healthcare.

Faith-Based Partnership Driving Education Policy

Dapo Abiodun described Ogun as a model of religious harmony, where cooperation between faiths has supported social stability and growth.

“The services rendered by religious bodies help in achieving peace in the state.”

He added that citizens often place greater trust in faith institutions than in political actors.

“Our people believe you more than politicians because they believe politicians make promises without fulfilling them.”

Furthermore, he cited the global reach of the Catholic Church, with over 1.2 billion adherents, including millions in Nigeria and Ogun State.

This influence, he said, continues to support schools, hospitals, and welfare programmes across communities.

Church Welcomes Policy, Seeks Deeper Collaboration

In response, Michael Francis Crotty praised the state government’s support for religious institutions.

“Your provision of a stable and supportive political environment has significantly enhanced the mission of the Catholic Church.”

He welcomed the decision to return schools, describing it as a step toward strengthening human development.

“The Catholic Church is willing to collaborate with the state in strengthening human development.”

Meanwhile, he expressed optimism that Catholic-owned schools in Ijebu-Ode and Abeokuta would benefit from the policy.

“We are hopeful that Catholic schools… will be among those returned.”

The development follows a wider trend across Nigeria, where some states have restored mission schools to religious bodies.

For instance, Peter Obi initiated a similar policy during his tenure in Anambra State.

That decision reshaped education management in the state, taking it from mid-level state by state NECO and WAEC performance to #1 in the federation in a few short years.

It also encouraged faith-based participation in school administration.

Such policies often aim to improve standards through shared responsibility.

With Ogun now joining the trend, attention shifts to implementation and how effectively partnerships will transform learning outcomes.