DR. OLUKUNLE AYOBAMI ABIMBOLA HONOURED BY ORAL ROBERTS UNIVERSITY FOR LEADERSHIP IN CHURCH ADMINISTRATION
Dr. Olukunle Ayobami Abimbola has been awarded an honorary Doctorate in Church Administration and Management by Oral Roberts University, in recognition of his decades of distinguished service across academia, public administration, and ecclesiastical leadership.
The prestigious degree reflects Dr Abimbola’s sustained commitment to strengthening administrative practice and ecclesiastical governance. For him, this honour serves to further bridge a remarkable career spent at the intersection of public service, academia, and church leadership.
The Conferment Ceremony
The award was presented in May 2026 at the Christ-Centred School of Theology in Aba, Abia State, the Nigerian partner institution of the Tulsa, Oklahoma-based university. The graduation and honours ceremony brought together prominent academics, clergy, and public figures from across Nigeria.
During the proceedings, the official citation was delivered by Distinguished Professor Joe T. A. Gambo, who highlighted Dr Abimbola’s exceptional contributions to administration, church leadership, and academic life. The degree was subsequently conferred by Reverend Professor H. U. Richard, who noted that the honour specifically acknowledged Dr Abimbola’s impactful work in leadership development, policy, and church management.
Academic and Ecclesiastical Profile
Dr Abimbola possesses a rich and diverse academic background. He holds a first degree in Agricultural Economics and Extension, a postgraduate degree in Agricultural Extension and Rural Development, and a Diploma in Cooperative Studies. In addition, he has earned doctorates in Theology, Ministry, and Divinity from reputable theological institutions.
His research focuses primarily on the history and doctrines of African Instituted Churches (particularly Spiritual Churches), church administration, and biblical studies. He currently serves as a Doctoral Research Fellow at the Corporate Institute of Strategic Research Global.
Within the ecclesiastical community, Dr Abimbola is widely recognised for his administrative and ecumenical work, particularly with the Celica Church of Christ. Internationally, he has engaged with major global religious bodies, including the All Africa Conference of Churches in Nairobi, Kenya, and the World Council of Churches in Geneva, Switzerland.
Wider Academic Distinctions
The joint ceremony also served as a platform to celebrate other academic advancements and achievements. At the event, Oral Roberts University:
Promoted four scholars to full professorships in Organisational and Business Leadership, Counselling Psychology, and Development Leadership.
Awarded two PhDs in Educational Administration and Management, and Practical Theology and Church AdministrationConferred four Doctorates in Divinity.
Granted honorary doctorates in Public Administration, Peace and Conflict Management, to two other distinguished Nigerians.
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