The Catholic Bishop of Oyo Diocese, Most Rev. Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo, has called on Catholics and all Christians to pray the Holy Rosary daily throughout October, describing it as a powerful weapon for peace and renewal in Nigeria. In a message to the faithful, Bishop Badejo reminded Catholics that October is traditionally dedicated to the Rosary in the Church’s calendar, and urged families, groups, and individuals to rediscover its spiritual power.
“The Rosary sanctifies us and our world and empowers us for virtue and victory,” he said. “In it, we are guaranteed the intercession and accompaniment of Mary, the mother of Jesus and our mother too. We never pray alone.” Bishop Badejo stressed that at a time when the nation is grappling with corruption, bloodshed, and insecurity, believers need Mary’s intercession more than ever. “We need a powerful ally like Mary to pray with us for peace of mind and heart, for harmony and progress in our country and in our world,” he said.
The bishop appealed to Catholics to pray the Rosary daily, not only for their personal intentions but also for Nigerian youth, families, leaders, and the nation’s future. He added that honouring Mary should not be a source of fear or hesitation. “Do not be afraid to honour her, for God did so first, and our culture supports it too. If we give so much honour to eminent human beings who are still alive among us, Mary, the mother of Jesus, deserves even more,” he noted. On a final note, Bishop Badejo declared: “Glory to Jesus, honour to Mary and Joseph! Through Mary our Mother, we succeed.”
