“What has the church done?” – Pastor Iren cites Osinbajo, Obasanjo as evidence of Christianity’s impact
Nigerian pastor Emmanuel Iren has highlighted the contributions of Christian missions to Nigeria’s education and healthcare sectors, citing prominent political figures who attended mission-founded schools.
Speaking during a church sermon, the cleric argued that the church’s impact goes beyond preaching, pointing to the establishment of schools and hospitals as part of its historical contributions to society.
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Pastor Iren referenced Igbobi College in Lagos, which was established in 1932 through the efforts of the Anglican and Methodist churches. He mentioned former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola and former House of Representatives Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila among the school’s notable alumni.
He also cited Baptist Boys’ High School in Abeokuta, Ogun State, which was founded by Baptist missionaries and attended by former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
“When anybody says, ‘What has the church done?’ This is evidence: Igbobi College has produced Yemi Osinbajo, Babatunde Fashola, Femi Gbajabiamila. Baptist Boys’ High School, Abeokuta, produced Olusegun Obasanjo. The first hospitals and schools were built by Christians,” he stated.
Pastor Iren’s remarks draw attention to the historical role of Christian missionary organisations in the development of formal education and healthcare in Nigeria.
His comments have renewed attention on the contributions of Christian missions to Nigeria’s educational and healthcare sectors, as well as their influence on generations of Nigerians who passed through their institutions.
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