6th November, 2024
Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo, founder and convener of the Christ Compassion to the Rural World Foundation (CCRWF), is set to make a historic impact in Ibadan, Oyo State, as he hosts what is being described as the largest compassion crusade ever in Nigeria.
Unlike traditional crusades centred solely on gatherings for salvation, miraculous healing, and deliverance, the “This Is Love Ibadan Crusade 2024” goes beyond, with large-scale food distributions and medical outreach tailored to underserved communities.
Ashimolowo held a press conference at Liberty Stadium in Ibadan on Tuesday to announce the extensive outreach initiative, the “This Is Love Ibadan Crusade 2024.”
Scheduled to run from November 25 to November 30, the crusade is set to impact thousands through spiritual gatherings, medical assistance, and food distributions.
Ashimolowo, a prominent UK-based Nigerian pastor, shared that his inspiration for compassionate ministry has deep roots.
For eight years, he journeyed with local evangelists through Ghana’s villages, learning and practising the approach of delivering both spiritual and physical support to underserved communities.
Following that experience, he launched CCRWF’s first compassion crusade in Ikorodu, Nigeria. “I have always had a burden for compassion crusades that provide both spiritual and practical support. This crusade in Ibadan will operate on a scale four times larger than our initial event in Ikorodu,” Ashimolowo said.
The six-day event in Ibadan will focus on healing, compassion, and assistance, with multiple initiatives aimed at easing the hardship of the city’s residents.
Ashimolowo explained, “This is not about political ambitions. Our mission is to meet the urgent needs of the people and show God’s love through compassionate actions.”
He disclosed that CCRWF has assembled a team of 33 surgeons to provide surgeries to residents unable to afford medical procedures.
The initial target, Ashimolowo said, was 400 surgeries, but due to overwhelming demand, the team has expanded to perform 711 surgeries.
“Four local hospitals will partner with CCRWF for this effort, and surgeries will begin ahead of the main event, thanks to special arrangements with the surgical teams,’ he explained.
Pastor Ashimolowo emphasized CCRWF’s belief in spiritual healing, deliverance, and salvation through Jesus Christ. Four nights from November 25 will feature miracle services focused on prayer, healing, and salvation, with an expected turnout of thousands.
Starting from November 26, CCRWF will distribute food items to meet the immediate needs of Ibadan residents. These include 10,000 packs each of sugar, salt, and vegetable oil, along with staples like rice, beans, garri, and noodles.
Ashimolowo highlighted that the group aims to reach over 75,000 people in Ibadan with food distribution.
According to Ashimolowo, CCRWF also planned to distribute over 130,000 articles of clothing and essential items, sourced specifically to address the current economic challenges faced by many Nigerians.
Ashimolowo acknowledged the high cost of importing and transporting these goods but committed to covering the expenses, with 80-90% of the funding personally contributed by him.
On November 29 and 30, the philanthropic pastor said CCRWF will operate a large-scale medical camp, staffed by 200 doctors, 150 pharmacists, and 100 nurses.
Ashimolowo recalled the unprecedented turnout in Ikorodu, where the medical team was unable to assist all who sought care, and said that CCRWF had since expanded its efforts to accommodate up to 150,000 people in Ibadan. Services will include routine check-ups, specialist consultations, and prescription medications.
As part of the crusade, Ashimolowo disclosed that CCRWF would host a School of Ministry, with the goal of equipping local pastors to continue serving their communities. Between 5,000 and 10,000 pastors are expected to participate in this programme.
Ashimolowo concluded by reaffirming the CCRWF’s purpose: “Our greatest motivation is God’s love and the salvation of souls. We aim to impact lives profoundly and bring lasting hope to the people of Ibadan.”
Reverend Samson Ajetomobi, who joined the press conference, added, “This crusade will bring encouragement and joy to the city, meeting both spiritual and practical needs in Christ’s model.”
The “This Is Love Ibadan Crusade” will require a security team of up to 250 officers to ensure a safe environment for attendees. It is anticipated to be one of the largest outreach events held in Ibadan in recent years, as CCRWF strives to make a lasting impact on the city and beyond.
