Nigerian pastor Emmanuel Iren has drawn attention to the historical contributions of Christian missionary organisations to Nigeria’s education and healthcare sectors, pointing to prominent Nigerians who attended schools established by Christian missions.
The cleric made the remarks during a church sermon, stressing that the church’s influence on society extends beyond preaching the gospel to include the establishment of educational and healthcare institutions.
To support his argument, Pastor Iren mentioned Igbobi College in Lagos, a school established in 1932 through the joint efforts of the Anglican and Methodist churches.
He highlighted some of the institution’s notable alumni, including former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola, and former Speaker of the House of Representatives Femi Gbajabiamila.
The pastor also referenced Baptist Boys’ High School in Abeokuta, Ogun State, which was founded by Baptist missionaries and counts former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo among its alumni.
Speaking during the sermon, Iren said the achievements of former students from these institutions demonstrated the contributions of Christian missions to Nigeria’s development.
“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.
His remarks have brought renewed attention to the role Christian missionary organisations played in establishing schools and healthcare facilities across Nigeria.
Over the years, mission-founded institutions have educated generations of Nigerians, including individuals who have gone on to occupy prominent positions in politics and other sectors.
Pastor Iren’s comments emphasise the historical influence of Christian missions on the country’s educational and healthcare systems and their contributions to community development.