Fr. Fasiku, a priest of the Catholic Diocese of Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria, was ordained on November 30, 2003. Over the years, he has demonstrated exceptional commitment to pastoral ministry, serving in various capacities within the Diocese. From his early years as Health Coordinator and member of the Vocations Team to his significant contributions as Juridical Vicar and member of the Board of Consultors, his dedication has been spotless. His pastoral assignments have taken him across parishes and institutions, including his period of study at CIWA from 2012 to 2017. He is an expert in Canon Law. His contributions to the Provincial Tribunal of Ibadan and his role as Sole Judge for the Ilorin/Oyo Marriage Tribunal further underscore his dedication to the canonical and pastoral life of the Church.  

The news of Fr. Fasiku’s appointment was met with great joy within the CIWA community. Very Revd Fr. Dr. Francis  Adeyemi who first announced the news, described him as an astute and conscientious priest who carries the values CIWA upholds. He praised Fr. Fasiku for his ability to represent both CIWA and the Diocese of Ilorin with dignity, offering prayers for his wisdom and efficiency in this national role. Similarly, Fr. Prof. Egere, Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, expressed his hopes for Fr. Fasiku’s successful tenure, emphasizing the importance of the Holy Spirit in guiding his decisions and actions. Frs. Andrew Otu, the Head of Pastoral Theology  Department, Fr. Justin Temswang & Sr. Elizabeth Aduloju, SSMA, Subdeans of Student Affairs, inter alia equally extended their heartfelt congratulations and prayers

Adding a deeply personal touch to the celebrations through his interface with CESACC correspondent Arinze Cyril Longinus, Fr. Peter Wojuwaye, a spiritual director at the Regional Seminary of All Saints, Ekpoma, Edo State, who is currently on further study in Kenya, reflected on his time with Fr. Fasiku during the aspirancy year of 2009–2010. He described him as a man of few words whose actions speak louder than words, likening him to St. Andrew and St. Augustine for his simplicity and depth of character. This sentiment echoes with the experiences of many who have worked alongside him, recognizing in him a rare combination of humility and profound dedication.  

Coincidentally, the day of Fr. Fasiku’s appointment also carried profound significance for the CIWA family. Rev. Fr. Dr. Michael Umoh, National Director of Social Communications at the Catholic Secretariat and a fellow alumnus of CIWA, celebrated his 32nd priestly anniversary. In another remarkable event, Bishop Gerald M. Musa of Katsina Diocese, a former lecturer at CIWA until November 2023, marked the first anniversary of his episcopal ordination. These milestones, occurring alongside Fr. Fasiku’s appointment, underline CIWA’s role in shaping leaders for both the Church and society.  

All these give credence to the earlier remark of CIWA’s Rector, Very Rev. Fr. Prof. Jude Abidemi Asanbe, that the Institute’s commitment to producing the best hands for service in its 43 years of existence is unfailing. He noted that CIWA’s alumni continue to uphold its values across regional, ethnic, and personal divides, contributing meaningfully to the Church and the world.  

The celebration of Fr. Fasiku’s new role is a moment of pride not only for the Catholic Diocese of Ilorin but also for CIWA, whose influence continues to resonate far and wide. Although efforts to reach Fr. Fasiku for comments were unsuccessful at the time of this report, his appointment speaks volumes about his integrity, competence, and commitment to the priestly ministry.  

As Fr. Fasiku steps into this national role, the prayers of CIWA, the Diocese of Ilorin, and the broader Catholic community accompany him. His journey is proof of the transformative power of dedicated service, and his new position serves as an inspiration to all who aspire to excellence in the vineyard of the Lord.  

Fr. Okhueleigbe Osemhantie Ā  

_Dec. 13, 2024  

CESACC-CIWA_