Union Baptist Church Odi-Olowo, Osogbo Rolls Out Programmes For 70th Anniversary Celebration

-Calls For National Unity, Community Service Among Believers

As Nigeria grapples with economic and social challenges, the Union Baptist Church, Odi-Olowo, Osogbo, has called on religious organisations to deepen their commitment to humanitarian service, national unity and moral leadership, declaring that the church must remain a force for societal transformation rather than partisan politics.

The call came as the 70-year-old Baptist congregation unveiled activities for its week-long anniversary celebration, including free medical screening, humanitarian outreach to vulnerable groups, the establishment of a new church and a N70 million fundraising campaign to support kingdom projects.

Addressing a press conference in Osogbo, on Sunday, the Senior Pastor of the church, Rev. Dr. Sunday Adediwura Adeoye, said the anniversary was designed not merely to celebrate the church’s longevity but to reaffirm its commitment to impacting lives through evangelism, healthcare, education and community development.
bration, themed “Celebration of God’s Goodness,” would run from July 5 to July 12, with activities deliberately designed to benefit both church members and the wider society.

According to him, “the church has been a great instrument in the hands of God that shaped our lives and gave physical and spiritual direction to our church.”

Rev. Adeoye said the church would or ise free medical screenings for members of the public, including blood pressure, blood sugar and hepatitis tests, among other health checks, to encourage early detection of diseases and promote healthy living.

He added that the church would also visit motherless babies’ homes and a leprosy colony as part of its humanitarian outreach, where donations and other forms of support would be provided to residents.

As part of efforts to expand Christian evangelism, the church will lay the foundation of a new Baptist church in Orisunbare, Owode-Ede, while also launching its 70-year history book documenting its journey since its establishment in July 1956.

Rev. Adeoye said the church had set a target of raising N70 million during the anniversary to finance church development and other kingdom projects.

He maintained that although the church engages the government on issues affecting society, it does not participate in partisan politics.

“The church is not involved in politics or politicking. Our assignment is to preach Christ, pray for those in authority and contribute to national development through service to humanity,” he said.

Speaking on the significance of the anniversary, the cleric said the milestone was a celebration of God’s faithfulness over the past seven decades.

“The number 70 symbolises completeness, divine order and the fulfilment of God’s purposes. All what 70 stands for is what we have experienced in our church, and it is worth celebrating because God has been good to us in all ramifications,” he said.

The cleric added that Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, would receive a Distinguished Leadership Award duri he celebration in recognition of what he described as the governor’s leadership and support for societal development. ↓

Other expected guests include the President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, Rev. Dr. Israel Adelani Akanji; the President of the Osun Baptist Conference, Rev. Dr. Olubunmi Obalade; and other church leaders and dignitaries.

Founded in July 1956, Union Baptist Church said it has remained committed to evangelism, leadership development and community service over the past seven decades. The anniversary programme will also feature sporting activities, awards for individuals who have contributed to the growth of the church, and a grand thanksgiving service to conclude the week-long celebration.

Rev. Adeoye urged Nigerians to embrace love, unity and peaceful coexistence, stressing that religious institutions have a responsibility to complement government efforts by caring for the vulnerable and promoting values that strengthen the nation.

He said, “Our God is love; loving each other is a must because we have one Father. With cooperation between members and leaders, we will continue to win together.”