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The Chairman of the Oyo State Christian Pilgrim Welfare Board, Very Rev. Ademola Moradeyo, has been elevated as bishop-elect of the Methodist Church Nigeria.
Moradeyo was one of the six clergymen that were elevated into the episcopal rank across the country by the Electoral College of the Methodist Church.
The Oyo state governor, Abiola Ajimobi, has described Moradeyo’s elevation as heartwarming especially as it came at a period he appointed the priest head of the state’s pilgrims welfare board.
Ajimobi, according to a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Communication and Strategy, Mr. Yomi Layinka, said, “It is noteworthy that your elevation, coming barely two months after your appointment as chairman of our pilgrim welfare board, is a further attestation of your piety and dedication to the propagation of the Christian faith.
“I’m confident that your new status will afford you the opportunity to serve God and humanity at a higher level. I wish you a successful ministration as you take up the reins of office as bishop of Ogbomoso cathedral of the Methodist Church.”
On his part, the bishop-designate expressed gratitude to the governor for what he called his ‘heavenly-applauded’ appointment as chairman of the state’s pilgrim welfare board, which, he said, underscored Ajimobi’s power of discernment.
He said, “This elevation as a bishop-elect of Ogbomoso diocese of the Methodist Church in Oyo State will add a lot of value to my job as the chairman of the State Pilgrim Welfare Board (Christian Wing).
“It gives me more opportunities to leverage on the welfare of the Christian pilgrims. My other colleagues (chairmen) in Lagos, Ogun and other states are of bishop rank and now Oyo State will not be inferior to anyone.
“My appointment, two months ago by the government was not only physically-accepted, but heavenly-ordained. I thank the governor for his qualitative power of discernment to appoint me at the right time.”
Moradeyo is expected to be consecrated as bishop on November 13 at the Methodist Church Nigeria, Trinity Council, Tinubu Square, Lagos; while his investiture will take place at the Methodist Church, Ogbomoso Cathedral, by January, next year.