Sunday Okobi

The Fountain of Life Church (TFOLC), Ilupeju, is set to host the second edition of the Taiwo Odukoya Memorial Lecture today. 

The event starts at 10:00a.m. at the church’s auditorium, will feature critical dialogue on the relationship between spiritual institutions and governance in Nigeria.

This year’s lecture themed: ‘The Evolving Relationship Between the Church and the Government in Nigeria’, which would feature two eminent Nigerian statesmen, former President Olusegun Obasanjo who will also serve as the special guest of honour, while immediate past Vice-President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, would deliver the principal lecture.

The lecture series was established in 2024 to honour the late Pastor Taiwo Odukoya, the founding pastor of TFOLC, who was celebrated as a visionary leader, teacher, and advocate for faith-driven national development.

According to the Senior Pastor, TFOLC, Jimmy Odukoya, “This memorial lecture is more than just an event, it is a living expression of my father’s enduring vision for a Nigeria where faith and leadership are aligned for national good. As we welcome voices such as Former President Chief (Gen.) Olusegun Obasanjo and Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, we are reminded of Pastor Taiwo Odukoya’s belief that the Church must remain a moral compass and a catalyst for transformation in society.”

The inaugural edition of the lecture, held in 2024, featured Mr. Ben Akabueze, former Director-General of the Budget Office of the Federation. 

Under the theme ‘Strengthening the Christian Voice in Government and Public Office’, Akabueze emphasised the necessity of ethical leadership and active Christian participation in public service.

This year’s conversation will delve into the evolving dynamics between the church and the state, highlighting their respective roles in shaping national unity, social values, and policy development.

The event, expected to attract policymakers, clergy, and citizens from across Nigeria, will also be live-streamed for a global audience via TFOLC’s website and YouTube channel, @FountainTV. Attendance is free.

The lecture aims to honour Pastor Taiwo Odukoya’s legacy by inspiring a renewed commitment to integrity, unity, and service values he championed throughout his life.