Breaking News: Ven. Professor Ayo Atowoju becomes the New PROVOST of The Cathedral Church of Saint David, Ijomu, Akure.

Very Rev’d. Prof. Ayodele Adeyinka Atowoju

Akure Diocese Announces New Provost: A Spirit-Led Appointment

In a significant and spiritually guided development within the Anglican Diocese of Akure, a new Provost has been officially announced.

Following a directive from the Archbishop and Lord Bishop of Akure Diocese, The Most Rev’d. Simeon Oluwole Borokini, Ph.D., CFAT, the Chancellor of the Diocese, Hon. Justice Yemi Akintan-Osadebay, convened a meeting of the Cathedral Greater Chapter on Easter Monday, April 6, 2026.

The purpose of the meeting was both sacred and strategic: to prayerfully nominate three (3) suitable senior clergy, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, from whom the Archbishop would subsequently select one (1), also through divine leading, to serve as the next Provost.

This process underscores the Diocese’s enduring commitment to spiritual discernment, order, and adherence to ecclesiastical tradition in leadership selection.

The Announcement

On Tuesday, April 7, 2026, the Diocese received the much-anticipated news of the Archbishop’s decision.

Through what has been widely acknowledged as the leading of the Holy Spirit, the Archbishop has appointed:

Venerable Professor Ayodele Adeyinka Atowoju as the new Provost.

Ayodele Adeyinka Atowoju is a distinguished Anglican cleric and accomplished academic, known for his depth in theological scholarship, commitment to ministry, and years of dedicated service to both the Church and academia. His emergence as Provost reflects not only his wealth of experience but also the confidence reposed in him to provide spiritual and administrative leadership at this critical time.

A New Chapter Begins

This appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter in the life of the Cathedral and the Diocese at large. It is a moment that calls for gratitude to God, unity among the faithful, and collective support for the new Provost as he assumes this sacred responsibility.

Members of the Diocese and the wider Anglican Communion are encouraged to uphold Ven. Prof. Atowoju in prayers, trusting that his tenure will be marked by growth, peace, and continued advancement of the work of God.

The process and eventual appointment serve as a reminder that the Church remains steadfast in seeking divine direction in all matters of leadership. As the Diocese welcomes its new Provost, there is renewed hope for impactful ministry and sustained spiritual development.

Profile of the New Provost

Ven. Prof. Ayodele Adeyinka Atowoju is a distinguished Anglican cleric, theologian, and academic administrator with an outstanding record of service to both Church and academia.

Academic Excellence

He holds:

• B.A. (Hons) in Religious Studies (1997)
• M.A. in Religious Studies (2000)
• Ph.D. in New Testament Studies (2009)

All degrees were obtained from the University of Ibadan, one of Nigeria’s premier institutions.

Scholarly Contributions

With over two decades of teaching experience, Ven. Prof. Atowoju has:

• Authored 75+ academic articles
• Written 9 books spanning New Testament studies, Christian worship, and pastoral theology
• Supervised:
  • 25+ PhD students
  • 60+ Master’s students

His contributions have significantly shaped theological scholarship and clergy formation in Nigeria.

Leadership and Institutional Impact

He has served in several strategic academic roles, including:

• Head of Department
• Dean / Acting Dean of Postgraduate Studies
• Faculty Head of Theology

He has also contributed to the establishment of Religious Studies departments in multiple Nigerian universities, including:

• Ajayi Crowther University
• Lead City University
• Wesley University
• Crowther Graduate Theological Seminary

Current and Previous Roles

Until his recent appointment, he served as:

• Rector, Ezekiel College of Theology

Church and Ministry

A devoted priest of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Ven. Prof. Atowoju has ministered both locally and internationally, including in the United Kingdom.

He is also a member of the Theological Accreditation and Regulatory Board, contributing to the standardization and development of theological education.

Areas of Expertise

His scholarly and ministerial interests include:

• New Testament Theology
• Pastoral Theology
• Biblical Exegesis (Greek and Hebrew)
• Intercultural Communication

Leadership Vision

Ven. Prof. Atowoju is known for promoting:

• Holistic theological education
• Practical ministry training
• Entrepreneurial and self-reliant clergy development

Congratulations to the Church of God.
Congratulations to Akure Anglican Diocese.
Congratulations to the entire Cathedral Church of St. David, Akure.