The Diocesan Bishop of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Diocese of Ife, Rt. Rev. Olubunmi Akinlade, has expressed gratitude to God for his decade of divine faithfulness and impactful service in the vineyard.

Speaking at the 3rd Session of the 12th Synod of the Diocese with theme, “Jesus Said, Follow Me,” the cleric reflected on his 10-year journey as Bishop of Ife, noting that the milestone calls for thanksgiving and renewed commitment to God’s work.

The Synod, held at the Cathedral of St. Philips, Aiyetoro, Ile-Ife, Osun State, drew clergy, laity and stakeholders from across the Diocese.

Describing the occasion as significant, Akinlade said: “It seems just like yesterday when, on March 3, 2016, at this Cathedral, I was enthroned as the Diocesan Bishop. God has been good and gracious to us, and to Him be all the glory.”

Expressing appreciation to God for sustaining him and his wife throughout the years, he said their confidence remains in God’s unfailing promise to complete every good work He has started.

Highlighting key achievements of his administration, the Bishop noted that his ministry commenced with the establishment of a functional diocesan headquarters, followed by a strong focus on evangelism and mission work.

He disclosed that different dilapidated rural churches were rebuilt, while about 10 new churches were planted within the decade to expand the reach of the gospel.

Akinlade also commended the Diocese’s women ministry, led by his wife, Nkechi, for its contributions, including the completion of an ultra-modern multipurpose hall and the organisation of skill acquisition programmes for women.

He further acknowledged her role as secretary of the Church of Nigeria Bishops’ Wives Conference, describing it as a source of pride and service to the wider church.

The cleric called onOsun State Government to return St. Philip Primary School, Aiyetoro, Ile-Ife,it took from the Church many years ago. He lamented the dilapidated state of the school, pleading that returning the school to the Church will help to restore the school to its past glory and provide quality education for the children in the community.