Oldest Church In Ibadan Commences Celebration Of 170th Year Anniversary

By: JP Ashedzi

The oldest church in Ibadan which is the Cathedral Church of St. David, Kudeti, is set to mark its 170th Founder’s Day Anniversary with a week-long activities slated for between September 18 and 24.

The church is the oldest in Ibadanland and beyond in what are today’s Oyo, Osun, Ondo, Ekiti and Kwara states, was founded by the late German missionary and evangelist, David Hiderer, on April 27, 1853, assisted by his interpreter, the late Rev. Daniel Olubi, who was the first indigenous vicar of the church.

Speaking in Ibadan at a news conference to commemorate the anniversary, the Chairman of the anniversary committee, Mogaji Olutunde Aboderin, said the event presents an opportunity for families, friends, associates and all lovers of goodwill to identify with the enduring history and legacy of faith, nurtured by perseverance that the church has come to represent.

He said the church contributions to education and spiritual life cannot be overemphasised, which has led to the establishments of schools and churches in Ibadan and its environs.

Chief Bayonle Adewale said activities of the week-long event include: Revival, Societies Days, Medical Outreach, Youth Varieties Day, Love Feast and Unveiling of Baobab Tree.

“Others are: Planting of New Trees and Book Launch, Thanksgiving Service, Dedication of Chapter House and Reopening of David and Anna Hinderer House,” he added.