More than 7,000 worshippers from across Ondo State and beyond gathered in Owo on Thursday for the maiden edition of Owo Praise the Lord, a community worship event convened by entrepreneur Bukunyi Olagbegi.
The three-hour programme, held at Methodist Primary School, attracted a mix of residents, visitors, and prominent figures from the state’s political and business circles. The event featured gospel ministrations by Yinka Ayefele, Bidemi Olaoba, Funmi Aragbaiye, Adeyinka Alaseyori, and Elijah Daniels, while cleric Wole Oladiyun delivered a prophetic message. Gospel comedian Woli Arole anchored the event.
Ayefele’s performance proved to be a highlight of the evening, drawing the loudest response as he led the crowd in an extended session of worship.
Olagbegi said the initiative was conceived as a homecoming for indigenes of Owo, both within Nigeria and in the diaspora, aimed at celebrating the town’s deep-rooted Christian heritage and cultural identity.
“Our goal is to bring more attention to our historic hometown, while we also gather and praise the Lord,” Mr. Olagbegi said. “We invited some of the finest voices and performers in Nigerian gospel because this town deserves an evening filled with joy.”
Olagbegi is the CEO of FBSS Nigeria Limited and also serves on the board of Altheus Limited, a Nigerian firm with interests in energy, human capacity development and private equity. In 2019, the United Nations named him among the 100 Most Influential People of African Descent. He has chaired the Central Working Committee for both The Future Awards Africa and SME100 Nigeria.
An indigene, Iremide, commended the initiative, describing it as a reflection of Olagbegi’s commitment to the community.
“We are grateful to Olagbegi for bringing this to Owo,” said Iremide, an Owo indigene. “It shows his kind heart and love for the town. I pray God continues to bless him and bless Owo.”
Another attendee, Adeola, who travelled from Ikare, described the experience as memorable.
“I never imagined the night would turn out this way,” she said. “Being part of a worship gathering of this scale in Owo and witnessing a Yinka Ayefele ministration live is something I will always be grateful for.”
The evening concluded with prayers for peace and progress in Owo and Ondo State.
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