By Efe Onodjae

The Anglican Church of the Resurrection, Victoria Island, Lagos, has rolled out a year-long programme of activities to commemorate its 40th anniversary, underscoring four decades of community service, missionary outreach and interfaith harmony.

The anniversary celebrations commenced on Monday with the unveiling of the church’s commemorative logo at a press conference.
Speaking at the event, the Vicar and Archdeacon of the parish, Tunde Oduwole, attributed the steady growth of the church to its strong commitment to unity and peaceful coexistence with other religious bodies.

Oduwole noted that despite sharing its environment with another Christian denomination and a mosque, the church has sustained harmonious relationships over the years.

According to him, “Nigeria is a multi-religious society. While there is freedom of worship, we do not have to be in conflict to express it. We have lived peacefully with our neighbours for decades and even extend our outreach programmes to them.”

He described the anniversary as not just a period of celebration but also a time for reflection on the church’s enduring commitment to service, unity and positive societal impact.

Chairman of the Anniversary Planning Committee, Demola Sanya, said the church’s outreach initiatives demonstrate its belief that service remains central to evangelism.
He explained that several beneficiaries have accessed free medical services provided by the church, creating opportunities to spread its message of faith.

Also speaking, the Evangelism Chairperson, Waleola Adeyemo, highlighted the church’s missionary and humanitarian contributions within and outside Nigeria.

She recalled the church’s mission work in Bassar, Togo, where it established churches in several communities about two decades ago.
Adeyemo added that the church has built a legacy of compassion through sustained support for vulnerable groups, including the elderly, children and indigent students through scholarship schemes.

She further noted that the church has served as a hub for youth development, nurturing young talents through structured teaching and mentorship programmes over the years.

As part of activities marking the anniversary, Oduwole announced a community outreach programme scheduled for April 18, 2026. The programme will feature free medical screenings and distribution of welfare packages to widows, orphans, the elderly and persons with disabilities.

Other lined-up events include a public lecture and symposium focusing on the role of the church in urban Nigeria, a youth and family fun day in August, and a groundbreaking ceremony for a legacy project at Alaro City slated for December 30, 2026.