Nigerian pastor Emmanuel Iren has pointed to the role Christian missions have played in Nigeria’s education and health sectors, referencing well-known political figures who attended mission-established schools.

Speaking during a church service, the cleric said the church’s influence extends beyond preaching, noting the founding of schools and hospitals as part of its historical impact on society.

Pastor Iren cited Igbobi College in Lagos, founded in 1932 by the Anglican and Methodist churches, naming former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, former Lagos Governor Babatunde Fashola, and former Speaker of the House of Representatives Femi Gbajabiamila among its distinguished alumni.

He also mentioned Baptist Boys’ High School in Abeokuta, Ogun State, established by Baptist missionaries and attended by former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

“When anybody says, ‘What has the church done?’ This is evidence: Igbobi College has produced Yemi Osinbajo, Babatunde Fashola, Femi Gbajabiamila. Baptist Boys’ High School, Abeokuta, produced Olusegun Obasanjo. The first hospitals and schools were built by Christians,” he stated.

Pastor Iren’s comments highlight the historical role Christian missionary groups played in developing formal education and healthcare in Nigeria.

His remarks have brought renewed focus to the contributions of Christian missions to Nigeria’s education and health sectors, and to their impact on generations of Nigerians who were educated in their institutions.