In a moving speech, Governor Chukwuma C. Soludo CFR paid homage to the life and legacy of Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther, a pioneering figure in Nigerian history. Speaking at a ceremony marking 160 years since Bishop Crowther traversed the region, Governor Soludo emphasized the importance of celebrating history and authenticity.
“One hundred and sixty years ago, someone traversed this land. We celebrate history and authenticity,” said Governor Soludo. “In doing this, we must ensure that we do not forget the full essence of the Man — Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther. We will be missing something if in this ceremony we miss the essence of today’s celebration, which for me is that Bishop Crowther lived a life without borders.”
Governor Soludo invited the audience to imagine the terrain as it was 160 years ago to fully appreciate the depth of Crowther’s sacrifice. “Journeying from the uttermost parts of the West to the East to establish the Diocese on the Niger was no small feat,” he noted.
Highlighting Crowther’s enduring impact, Soludo reflected on the critical institutions in health and education whose foundations were laid by Crowther’s tireless efforts. “Today, I hear them mention critical institutions from health to education whose foundations were laid by the efforts of a man who decided to serve humanity regardless of class, creed, and ethnicity.”
Governor Soludo urged the audience to embody Crowther’s spirit in their daily lives. “As you deal with others in your daily lives, ask yourself, ‘Where is the Ajayi Crowther in me?’ In Anambra, we are building a State that serves all, not minding where you come from, the language you speak, or where you worship.”
The Governor concluded his speech by celebrating with the Diocese on the Niger and expressing his hope that Crowther’s legacy would continue to grow across generations. “I am here today to celebrate with the Diocese on the Niger, even as I pray that this legacy will continue to grow across generations to come.”
The ceremony served as a poignant reminder of Bishop Crowther’s contributions and the ongoing relevance of his mission to promote unity and service across Nigeria.
