Enthronement of The 6th Bishop of Diocese of Ekiti
Rt. Rev. Dr. Andrew Olusola Ajayi: A Transformative Shepherd for the Anglican Diocese of Ekiti
The Anglican Diocese of Ekiti witnessed a historic moment on August 13, 2022, when The Right Reverend Dr. Andrew Olusola Ajayi was enthroned as the 6th Bishop of the Diocese at the Cathedral Church of Emmanuel, Okesha, Ado-Ekiti. His enthronement, which coincided with his 63rd birthday on July 2, 2022, marked the beginning of a new era of dynamic leadership, visionary reforms, and spiritual renewal for the Diocese.
Prior to his translation, Bishop Ajayi served as the pioneer Bishop of the Missionary Diocese of Ekiti Kwara, where he left a legacy of faith, institution building, and pastoral devotion.
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Early Life and Academic Pursuits
Born on July 2, 1959, in Fiditi, Oyo State, Nigeria, Bishop Ajayi’s life has been a testimony of grace and diligence. His early education at Precious Stone Primary School, Ijebu-Ode (1966–1971) and Ijebu Southern District Grammar School, Ala (1972–1976) laid the foundation for his academic excellence.
Answering the divine call, he studied at Immanuel College of Theology, Ibadan (1978–1981), where he earned a Diploma in Religious Studies and a College Diploma in Theology. His pursuit of deeper theological knowledge led him to:
• Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife – Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies (1982–1985) and Master of Arts in New Testament Studies (1987–1990).
• Union Theological Seminary, New York City – Master of Theology (STM) in Christian Ethics (1994–1995).
• Ekiti State University – Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in New Testament Studies (2015).
This rich academic journey cemented his place as a foremost scholar and biblical expositor in the Anglican Communion.
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Family and Personal Life
Bishop Ajayi is married to Mrs. Abimbola Bolarinwa Ajayi, his faithful partner in ministry. Their union is blessed with two children, both nurtured in the values of faith, integrity, and service.
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Episcopal Ministry in Ekiti
Since his enthronement in 2022, Bishop Ajayi has brought fresh energy, strategic vision, and pastoral compassion to the Diocese of Ekiti. His episcopacy has been defined by reforms, spiritual revival, and institutional development.
1. Clergy Welfare and Pastoral Care
• Review and improvement of stipends and allowances.
• Introduction of wardrobe allowance and enhanced retirement benefits.
• Establishment of health insurance schemes and free medical check-ups for clergy and spouses.
2. Infrastructural Growth
• Renovation and establishment of new church buildings.
• Acquisition of land for future diocesan expansion.
• Beautification and modernization of the diocesan headquarters.
3. Education and Youth Empowerment
• Revitalization of the CBT Ekiti Anglican Diocesan High School.
• Youth empowerment programs, retreats, and conferences.
4. Technology and Media
• Modernization of the Diocesan Website.
• Establishment of a multimedia studio to enhance digital evangelism and global outreach.
5. Spiritual and Liturgical Enrichment
• Over 1,500 candidates confirmed within his tenure.
• Institution of quarterly diocesan night vigils.
• Dedications of new churches and community projects.
• Pastoral retreats and evangelists’ conferences to deepen discipleship.
6. Financial Stewardship and Sustainability
• Introduction of sustainable financial models to secure diocesan stability.
• Strengthening of diocesan enterprises such as the water factory and transportation services.
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A Leadership of Vision and Humility
Bishop Ajayi is widely admired for combining intellectual depth with pastoral humility. His open-door policy, transparent administration, and collaborative leadership style have fostered unity across the Diocese. He empowers others to lead, encourages innovation, and exemplifies a servant-leader’s heart.
Beyond his official duties, he remains a compassionate pastor, a diligent teacher, and a visionary strategist. His ministry reflects a rare balance of theological scholarship, practical wisdom, and pastoral devotion.
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Looking Ahead
Though his episcopal journey in Ekiti is still unfolding, the trajectory of Bishop Ajayi’s ministry points to greater evangelistic reach, institutional growth, and spiritual transformation. With his leadership, more schools, healthcare centers, and churches are expected to emerge, positively impacting lives and communities across Ekiti and beyond.
The life and ministry of Rt. Rev. Dr. Andrew Olusola Ajayi are a powerful witness to the union of faith, intellect, and service in the advancement of God’s Kingdom. His legacy is not only in what has been built but in the lives transformed and the spiritual imprint left upon the Diocese of Ekiti.
May God’s grace continue to strengthen him as he leads with conviction, vision, and prayer toward even greater works in Christ’s service.
