The Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, hosted the 2026 edition of the annual Church Choir Competition as part of activities marking the Easter celebration, rewarding outstanding church choirs with five million naira cash prizes (N5m) and food items.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare, the event, now in its fourth edition was held at the prestigious Ife Grand Resort.
The competition, which brought together several churches, was designed to promote unity, religious harmony, and the celebration of Easter through music and spiritual upliftment.
Participating church choirs included the Central Choir of the Catholic Diocese of Ondo State; the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Region 22, Ondo State; St. David’s Anglican Cathedral, Akure; the Celestial Church of Christ Cathedral, Ondo State; and St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Igbara-Oke, among others.
The choirs thrilled guests with soul-lifting renditions, showcasing exceptional vocal dexterity, harmony, and stage presentation.
Speaking at the event, the convener, Olori Fadekemi Ogunwusi, expressed appreciation to the Ooni for his unwavering commitment to fostering interfaith unity and youth engagement through creative platforms.
She emphasized that the competition continues to serve as a bridge for strengthening relationships among Christian communities while promoting moral and spiritual values.
At the climax of the event, the panel of judges announced the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Region 22, Ondo State, as the overall winner.
The Central Choir of the Catholic Diocese of Ondo State secured second place, while St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Igbara-Oke, emerged third. The Celestial Church of Christ Cathedral, Ondo State, finished in fourth place.
In his generosity, the Ooni rewarded the winners handsomely.
The first-place winner received N2 million alongside food items; the second-place winner received N1.5 million and food items; the third-place choir received N1 million with food items; and the fourth-place winner was awarded N500,000 and food items.
Addressing participants and guests, Ooni Ogunwusi urged Nigerians to embrace love, peace, and unity, stressing that Easter symbolizes sacrifice, hope, and renewal.
He called on religious bodies to continue promoting harmony across faiths and contributing meaningfully to nation-building. The Ooni further reiterated his commitment to supporting initiatives that foster peaceful coexistence among different religious groups.