On Thursday, May 22, 2025, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), South West region, bestowed its inaugural “Knight of Faith” title on prominent business magnate and philanthropist, Aare Adetola Emmanuelking. The honour recognises his unwavering commitment to the Christian faith, national development, and distinguished leadership in both business and community service.
The historic ceremony, themed “Celebrating Distinction and Faithful Stewardship,” took place at the Garden of Faith in Abeokuta. The event also included the induction of several notable Nigerians as Distinguished Patrons of the association. Among them were the Inspector General of Police, Dr. Kayode Egbetokun; Deputy Comptroller General of Nigeria Customs, Barr. Olaniyi Alajogun; and renowned gospel music legend, Sir Evangelist Prof. Ebenezer Obey-Fabiyi (MFR).
The event was chaired by the CAN South West Chairman, Bishop Tunde Akin-Akinsanya, and graced by His Excellency Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, Executive Governor of Ogun State, who serves as the Grand Patron of the association. The Governor was ably represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Tokunbo Talabi.
Also present were top dignitaries, including the Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Ola Oresanya; Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Olanrewaju Ogunlowo; Royal Fathers, the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria, His Grace Most Rev’d (Dr.) Daniel Chukwudumebi Okoh; several CAN State Chairmen, and other influential figures from across the country.
The spiritually charged event featured soul-lifting gospel music performances, intercessory prayers, official decoration of all awardees, and a special empowerment program. In a remarkable gesture of generosity, Aare Adetola Emmanuelking donated a plot of land in one of Adron Homes’ prestigious estates to the winner of the empowerment program, emphasizing his longstanding commitment to economic empowerment and community transformation.
In his acceptance speech, Aare Emmanuelking expressed profound humility and gratitude for the honour, dedicating it to God and the entire body of Christ. He emphasized that the conferment was a divine mandate to do more.
“This is a divine call, not just to me but to every Christian in leadership,” he said. “I charge every believer to uphold the values of our faith, integrity, love, excellence, and service. In these trying times, the world needs more light-bearers. Let us not shrink our influence, but shine boldly for Christ.”
He further urged fellow Christian brethren to remain unshaken in their commitment to godly principles and to be intentional in advancing the cause of the Kingdom in every sector of society.
The “Knight of Faith” sash, unveiled during the ceremony, now stands as a lasting symbol of spiritual distinction and kingdom stewardship. This momentous event marks a significant chapter in faith-based leadership recognition and affirms CAN South West’s mission to celebrate lives that embody Christ-like values and contribute meaningfully to national development.
