The atmosphere was filled with admiration and celebration as the Rt. Revd. Dr. Stephen Ayodeji Fagbemi, Diocesan Bishop of Owo, Anglican Communion, was decorated as Ondo State Man of the Year at the 8th Anniversary, Public Lecture, and Roll of Honours ceremony organised by Democrat News Magazine.
The event was held at the OSDPC Multi-Purpose Event Centre, First Gate, Ijapo Estate, Akure, Ondo State, on Sunday, May 31, 2026, and attracted several dignitaries from different sectors.
Among those present were Justice Olasehinde Kumuyi, former Chief Judge of Ondo State; Chief (Mrs.) Kosemani Kolawole, former and only female Head of Service in the state; the Oba of Upenmen of Owo; and other notable personalities.
The award was presented in recognition of Bishop Fagbemi’s administrative competence, exemplary episcopal leadership, and consistent contributions to community and societal development. He was described as a leader whose influence spans faith, education, peacebuilding, and humanitarian service.
In his welcome address, the Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Democrat News Magazine, John Alaba Aliu, said the honour was reserved for individuals whose lives continue to inspire development and hope in society.
According to him, “The Rt. Revd. Dr. Stephen Ayodeji Fagbemi is a shining symbol of godly inspiration and development. He has consistently used his administrative and episcopal authority for the advancement of humanity. In every office he has occupied, his impact has been nothing short of phenomenal. He represents leadership with conscience, service with compassion, and influence with divine responsibility.”
The event also featured a public lecture themed “National Peacebuilding as a Strategic Tool for Development and Democratic Stability in Nigeria,” delivered by Mr. James Adekunle of the National Orientation Agency. He emphasized the importance of peacebuilding as a foundation for national development and democratic stability.
He noted that “there can be no sustainable development without peace and no enduring democracy without institutional stability,” while calling for dialogue, justice, and youth empowerment as tools for national progress.
In his acceptance speech, Bishop Fagbemi expressed gratitude for the recognition, describing it as unexpected and humbling.
He said, “Service to humanity must be rightly predicated on the understanding that whatever we are is what God has made of us, and in serving God, we must be available to serve His creation.”
He further encouraged youths to embrace integrity, diligence, and selfless service, while lamenting the increasing monetisation of voluntary service in society.
“We need to encourage the upcoming generation that God rewards when least expected and that nothing goes without a record before God,” he added.
The bishop dedicated the award to God, his family, the Diocese of Owo, the Anglican Communion, his community of Oba-Ile, and his wife, Mrs. Florence Ebunoluwa Fagbemi.
The ceremony concluded with renewed calls for peacebuilding and community development, as guests described the award as a recognition of a life dedicated to service, humility, and leadership excellence.
