The First Baptist Church in Kosofe, Lagos, marked a significant milestone with its centenary anniversary, celebrated under the theme “Great Celebration.” This momentous occasion reflected on a hundred years of faith, community, and dedication within the congregation. Senior Pastor Rev Dr Olatunde Festus used this platform to emphasize the pivotal role of unity and harmony among church members as a fundamental cornerstone for the blessings and mercy of God. He called upon the congregation to recommit themselves to fostering a spirit of unity while addressing and eliminating any factors that could undermine their collective bond. His message resonated deeply, serving as a reminder of the strength that comes from standing together as a faithful community.
Throughout the anniversary week, a diverse array of events was scheduled, designed to both commemorate the church’s rich history and engage present congregants. These events included the screening of a centenary documentary that captured the church’s journey, academic lectures that explored theological themes, and a “Night of Praise and Hymns” that encouraged worship and reflection. Other activities such as a memorial service, an awards night celebrating the contributions of various members, and the grand finale were strategically planned to enhance the church’s community spirit. The chairman of the centenary committee for publicity and reunion, Rotimi Oyedele, expressed excitement about the extensive programs, which were welcomed by members with enthusiasm.
The significance of the centenary celebration was further underscored by the anticipation of notable guests, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and local leaders like the chairman of Ketu-Matori Local Council Development Area. The involvement of such distinguished figures highlighted the church’s prominence within the region and its wider community impact. Furthermore, the celebration was expected to attract participation from church members residing abroad and those who were formerly a part of the congregation, thereby creating a vibrant atmosphere of reunion and reflection across generations.
Rev Israel Akanji, the president of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, was slated to attend, signifying the church’s affiliation and contributions within the larger Baptist community. His presence, along with contributions from church committees, reinforced the collaborative spirit that has characterized the church’s endeavors throughout its existence. Sam Titiloye, the chairman of the historical and awards committee, articulated the importance of the centenary, recognizing that reaching a hundred years is a notable achievement in any community, especially within religious institutions.
Nonetheless, challenges interspersed with the celebration were acknowledged, particularly regarding fundraising efforts. Deaconess Feyi Durojaiye, the finance committee chairman, revealed that while the committee was able to meet its fundraising goals, the harsh realities of inflation in Nigeria affected the initial expectations for funds. Despite this setback, the church community maintained a positive outlook, focusing on their faith in God’s provision. Ifeoluwa Oludiran, the chairman of the facility development committee, noted that while not all planned projects were completed due to budget constraints, they remained thankful for God’s faithfulness throughout their planning and execution processes.
As the kickoff event drew about 1,500 worshipers, the chairman of the logistics committee, Adesola, reflected on the overwhelming participation as a testament to the church’s vibrant community. The centenary celebration of the First Baptist Church Kosofe, therefore, not only served as a memorial of its rich history but also underscored the importance of unity, faith, and perseverance in addressing challenges. The collective spirit of celebration fostered a renewed commitment among members to work together for the future while cherishing their past, illustrating the potential for continued growth and unity within the church. As they embarked on the next chapter, the congregation looked forward with optimism, determined to uphold the foundational values that have sustained them for a century.
