The Venerable Emmanuel Olorunmola Ajayi, a retired Archdeacon of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) and former chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), has passed away at the age of 86. He died on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at the Federal Teaching Hospital in Lokoja, Kogi State, after a life dedicated to preaching the gospel for over 41 years.
Family Confirms Passing
His son, Omeiza Ajayi, a journalist with Vanguard, confirmed the death in a statement on behalf of the family. He described his father as a man who “did not retreat” and “did not surrender,” but “completed his assignment and went home as a soldier goes home after a long and honourable campaign, with nothing left undone and nothing left unsaid.”
A Life of Ministry
Ajayi’s ministerial journey began in Lagos and took him through Zambia, Kwara, Ondo, and eventually Kogi State, spanning decades of service across communities, classrooms, and pulpits. He served under seven bishops throughout his career, reflecting the longevity and consistency of his ministry across changing ecclesiastical leadership.
He was widely regarded as a church planter, with efforts in every posting aimed at establishing new congregations built with discipline and commitment. He also served for several years as chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) at state, diocesan, or zonal levels.
Funeral Arrangements
The funeral service for the revered leader has been scheduled for Friday, June 12, 2026. His family stated that the service would honour 'his impactful service' to the church and the nation.
Biographical Details
Born on June 10, 1940, in Ikare, Ondo State, Ajayi was the son of the late Paul Ajayi Otohinoyi of Oboroke-Ihima, Kogi State, and the late Abigail Ajibola Ajayi of Makeke, Akoko-Edo Central, Edo State. He began his ministry as an Agent Catechist in 1969 and retired as an Archdeacon in 2010. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. E.Z. Ajayi, five children, numerous grandchildren, a great-grandchild, and a wide circle of spiritual children who fondly referred to him as “Daddy.”
