Plans free medical care, welfare support to vulnerable persons
Amid rising economic strain and shifting social values in Lagos State, the Church of the Resurrection, 1004 Estate, Victoria Island, has marked its 40th anniversary with a call to confront widening welfare gaps and the growing moral drift in urban life.

Vicar of the church, Tunde Oduwole, who spoke during a media briefing to kick off the anniversary activities, said the milestone presents an opportunity to reassess the role of faith institutions in a city where inequality, non-access to healthcare and social disconnection continue to deepen.

Founded in 1986 to establish an Anglican presence in a rapidly expanding Victoria Island, the parish now positions its anniversary as a moment of transition and renewed civic duty.

Meanwhile, the key feature of the year-long programme is a planned outreach offering free medical care and welfare support to vulnerable groups, including the elderly, widows and low-income households. The initiative reflects a broader pattern of religious organisations increasingly stepping in to provide basic social services amid persistent gaps in public systems.

Participants at the briefing also viewed the exhibition of archival materials tracing the church’s journey over four decades. For many, the display highlighted how urban churches have evolved into informal support networks, particularly in mixed-income communities where social safety nets are weak.

Besides commemorative services, the church will host a public lecture examining the place of faith in addressing contemporary urban challenges—from youth disengagement to ethical leadership and community responsibility.

The Diocesan Bishop, Ifedola Gabriel Okupevi, is expected to preside over major anniversary events, including a thanksgiving service where past clerics and lay contributors will be honoured.