THE VENERABLE TOLULOPE AYODELE AKINWANDE: CELEBRATING A GOLDEN JUBILEE OF GRACE AND MERCY
THE VENERABLE TOLULOPE AYODELE AKINWANDE: CELEBRATING A GOLDEN JUBILEE OF GRACE AND MERCY
By Temitope OYEKAN
On November 7, 2025, a milestone dawns as The Venerable Tolulope Ayodele AKINWANDE, a revered Anglican cleric, celebrated his 50th birthday. This golden jubilee is more than a personal triumph; it is a vibrant attestation to a life devoted to faith, service, and transformative ministry. From his humble beginnings in Ilaro, Ogun State, to his current role as Archdeacon of Iperu Archdeaconry, and Vicar of St. James’ Anglican Church, Iperu Remo, Venerable Tolulope’s journey is a compelling narrative of divine grace and infinite mercy.
*Roots Grounded in Faith*
Born on 7th November, 1975 to the late Mr. Modupe Adebayo AKINWANDE and Mrs. Rebecca Ayinke AKINWANDE of Ipokia, Ipokia Local Government of Ogun State, Tolulope was raised in a home where faith was a cornerstone. His spiritual foundation was laid early, blossoming into a lifelong calling at the Anglican Youth Fellowship National Bible Conference in Akure, where he gave his life to Christ. This pivotal moment ignited a passion for ministry, evident in his early roles as a chorister, acolyte, and Bible Study leader at the Cathedral Church of St. Peter, Ake, Abeokuta. His calling was further nurtured during his time at Tai Solarin College of Education, Ijebu-Ode, where he served as General Secretary of the Nigeria Fellowship of Evangelical Students.
*A Scholar and Servant*
Venerable Tolulope’s academic journey mirrors his dedication to excellence. His educational path began at Methodist Primary School, Ado-Odo, followed by secondary education at Alamuwa Grammar School, Ado Odo; Anglican Grammar School, Ilaro; Lisabi Grammar School, Abeokuta; and Community Secondary School, Ipokia. He earned a National Certificate in Education (NCE) from Tai Solarin College of Education (1995–1998), before answering the call to full-time ministry. His theological training at Archbishop Vining College of Theology, Akure, yielded Diplomas in Religious Studies (2003) and Theology (2004). A Second Class Upper Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies from the University of Ibadan (2009) followed, along with a Master of Theology (2013) from Crowther Graduate Theological Seminary, Abeokuta, and a Master of Arts (2017) from Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo. Currently, he is pursuing a Ph.D. in Christian Ethics at the Crowther Graduate Theological Seminary, Abeokuta, underscoring his relentless pursuit of knowledge in service to God.
*A Trailblazer in Ministry*
Ordained a Deacon in 2004 and a Priest in 2005, Venerable Tolulope’s ministerial career is marked by remarkable achievements. Preferred as a Honorary and Statutory Canon in 2009 at the Cathedral Church of St. Peter, Ake, by Rt. Rev. Dr. Mathew OWADAYO, he served in various churches in Egba Diocese until his transfer to Remo Diocese in 2013 at the behest of His Grace, the Most Revd. Michael Olusina FAPE, Bishop, Remo Anglican Diocese, and Archbishop of Lagos Ecclesiastical Province. In Remo, he was appointed Statutory Canon of the Cathedral Church of St. Paul, Sagamu, in 2014 and Archdeacon in 2015.
Today, he leads the first church in the entire Remoland and Ijebuland, St. James’ Anglican Church, Iperu Remo, a role he assumed in July 2025.
His ministry is defined by pioneering growth. As the founding priest of the Anglican Church of the Epiphany, Onikolobo, Abeokuta, and the Victoria Abimbola Onafowokan Memorial Anglican Church, Ikenne, he has built thriving congregations. His leadership fosters spiritual, numerical, physical, and financial growth through consistent Bible study, prayer, and community engagement. With a focus on children, youth, Christian marriage, elderly ministry, and discipleship, his impact resonates deeply, transforming lives and communities.
*Beyond the Pulpit*
Venerable Tolulope’s influence extends far beyond the church. He has held key roles, including Secretary of the Diocesan Development and Investment Committee, Protocol and Special Duty Officer in Remo Diocese, and member of the Ogun State Technical Working Group on Alternative Care Guidelines. His commitment to evangelism shines through in village and medical outreaches across Egba and Egba West Dioceses, revitalizing rural congregations. As Lagos Provincial/Diocesan Desk Officer for the Church of Nigeria Prevent Gender Based Violence Project, he champions social justice, blending faith with action.
*A Family Anchored in Love*
At the heart of Venerable Tolulope’s life is his marriage to Mrs. Oluwabusayomi Temidayo AKINWANDE an accomplished Assistant Chief Livestock Officer with the Ogun State Ministry of Agriculture. A graduate of the Federal University of Technology, Akure, and the University of Ibadan, she brings expertise in Agricultural Biochemistry and Nutrition to her work. Together, they have nurtured a loving family, a reflection of their shared devotion to faith and service.
*A Legacy of Grace at 50*
As Venerable Tolulope Ayodele AKINWANDE marks his 50th birthday, the Anglican Communion and the communities he serves pause to celebrate a life of extraordinary impact. His journey from a faith-filled childhood in Ipokia to a respected Archdeacon embodies God’s grace and mercy. Colleagues and congregants alike laud his humility, wisdom, and compassion, qualities that have made him a beacon of hope.
On this golden jubilee, i join his family, colleagues, friends, and flock in giving thanks for a life that continues to inspire. As he steps into the next chapter, i pray for continued divine guidance and strength for this faithful servant of God.
Happy 50th Birthday, The Venerable Tolulope Ayodele AKINWANDE!
Your legacy of faith and service shines brightly, a living testament to God’s boundless grace.
*OYEKAN was the immediate past People’s Warden of St. James’ Anglican Church, Iperu Remo*
