ABUJA — Venerable Emmanuel Olorunmola Ajayi, a retired Archdeacon of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), has died at the age of 86.
Ajayi, who devoted 41 years to active ministry across several dioceses, served under seven bishops and played a key role in translating Christian liturgy into the Ebira language. He died on June 4, 2026, at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Lokoja, Kogi State.
His son, Omeiza Ajayi of Vanguard Newspapers, confirmed the death in a statement on Monday, describing his father as a man who “completed his assignment and went home” after a lifetime of dedicated service.
The late cleric’s ministerial journey began in Lagos and took him through Zambia, Kwara, Ondo and Kogi states. Over the course of his career, he served diverse congregations and communities, earning a reputation for commitment, discipline and consistency in ministry.
One of his notable contributions was church planting. Throughout his postings, he worked to establish new congregations, helping to expand the Church’s presence in various communities. He also served as Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in several locations, promoting cooperation among Christian denominations.
A musicologist and accomplished pianist, Ajayi served as Diocesan Chaplain of Choir Masters and Organists, where he contributed to the development of church music. He also served as Diocesan Chaplain of the Boys Brigade Nigeria, mentoring and guiding young people in faith and character development.
Among his enduring legacies was his work in promoting the Ebira language. He spearheaded the translation of the Yoruba hymn book and Anglican liturgy into Ebira to make worship more accessible to local congregations. Between 1993 and 1996, he also organised Ebira literacy classes in Okene and later in his hometown of Ihima, combining educational outreach with evangelism.
Ajayi retired in 2010 as an Archdeacon upon attaining the age of 70. However, retirement did not mark the end of his service, as he continued to provide spiritual guidance, teaching and counselling to ministers and ministries within and outside the Anglican Communion.
Funeral activities will commence on Thursday, June 11, 2026, with an Afternoon of Tributes and Wake Keep at Peace House, Irivogo, Oboroke, Ihima, in Okehi Local Government Area of Kogi State, beginning at 2 p.m.
The funeral service will take place on Friday, June 12, 2026, at Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Oboroke, Ihima, Okehi Local Government Area, Kogi State.
He is survived by his wife, Mrs E.Z. Ajayi, five children, grandchildren, a great-grandchild and numerous relatives, friends and associates whose lives he touched through his ministry and service.
