A hundred years ago, a vision was set into motion—one that would shape the lives of countless young men and instill in them values of faith, discipline, and national service. This vision became The African Lads Brigade, founded in May 1925 with a singular purpose: to mould boys into godly and responsible men through Bible teachings, military drills, and music.
As The Lads Brigade marks its Centenary Anniversary, the air is thick with nostalgia and pride. From its early days, inspired by models from Glasgow, Scotland, The Lads Brigade took firm root in Nigeria, starting with the pioneering companies attached to The African Church Arch Cathedral Bethel, Lagos – 1st Company; The African Church Salem Cathedral, Ebute Metta – 2nd Company; The First African Church Mission, Christ Church Cathedral Oyingbo – 3rd Company; and The First African Church Mission, Jehovah Shalom Cathedral, Lagos – 4th Company. These early foundations laid the groundwork for a movement that would spread across continents.
Today, The Lads Brigade stands as a beacon of moral discipline and leadership, its influence reaching beyond Nigerian borders into the Republic of Benin, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The Centenary Celebration is not just a time for reflection but a call to action—an invitation to recommit to the mission that has stood strong for generations.
At the heart of this commemoration are tributes to past leaders whose dedication shaped the Brigade. The names of icons like Late E.I. Joseph, Late Bishop Aboyade Cole, Late Bishop Euler Ajayi, Late J. Akinsanya, Late J. Awobiyide, recently passed Late J. O. Ajibode, Rtd BG Elder Taiwo Sholanke, Rtd BG A.O. Folarin, Rtd BG (CSP) Oni Odunlami are echo through the hall of history. Their sacrifices are evident in the unwavering commitment of today’s generation, who continue to embody the principles set forth a century ago.
The celebrations are set to unfold with a series of events that highlight the Brigade’s enduring purpose. A Road Walk and Street Awareness Campaign on Saturday 24th May 2025 will start off from the National Secretariat in Ebute Metta, Lagos with the terminal point at the 1st Company, Arch Cathedral Bethel on Broad Street, Lagos; then on Sunday 25th May 2025 the Grand Finale and Awards Presentation will take center stage, honoring the unwavering dedication of members past and present.
As the African Lads Brigade steps into its next century, its impact continues to resonate. It is more than an organization—it is a movement, a legacy, and a promise that the ideals of faith, discipline, and service will never wane. This celebration is not just about the past; it is a torch being passed to the generations ahead, lighting the way for those who will uphold the Brigade’s mission for another hundred years.
Let us quickly inform the public that part of our celebration for this Centenary year is our Annual National Camp tagged “The Centenary Camp – Eko 2025. Through yearly National Camps, the Brigade fosters unity, growth, and leadership development. Music and military drills, vocational training, and moral teachings are the pillars on which Boys, Girls, Men and Women find direction and strength. The Brigade’s reach extends into communities, shaping future leaders who carry the essence of its mission wherever they go.
Thank you, and God bless the African Lads Brigade.
