Pastor Emmanuel Iren Opens Free School for Indigent Children in Ibadan
In a remarkable move to blend faith with social responsibility, Pastor Emmanuel Iren, Founder and Lead Pastor of Celebration Church International (CCI), has unveiled Propella Schools, the church’s first free school, located in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The school was officially inaugurated on Monday, September 15, and welcomed its first set of about 80 pupils. Its mission is to provide quality, tuition-free education to children from disadvantaged families, offering them an environment where they can grow, learn, and pursue their dreams.
Pastor Iren had earlier hinted at the initiative in January through a post on X, noting that the school was taking shape and would soon commence operations.
In a symbolic gesture that captured widespread attention, Pastor Iren rang the school’s very first bell to signify the beginning of classes. Sharing the moment on social media, he wrote: “I rang the first bell. @propellaschools is live! The first free school of @cci_global is live. We have started with about 80 students. Help me thank everyone who worked tirelessly to make this happen.”
The launch has drawn widespread acclaim online, especially at a time when economic hardship and the high cost of learning materials often keep children out of school. With its modern facilities and free access, Propella Schools is already being hailed as a timely intervention for the community.
Notable voices have also commended the effort. Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong described the project as “commendable,” while Dr. Mary, a medical doctor, urged bloggers to amplify the news, saying: “Bloggers! Where are you? This is something for you to repost. Don’t wait till they talk about vigils.”
Likewise, social media user Ọmọ́táyọ̀ Olókèdé wrote: “This is beautiful, sir, and the entire CCI. Increase in all ramifications, I pray. God bless you @pst_iren.”
As Propella Schools opens its doors, many see it as a shining example of how faith-based organizations can drive social change when vision is paired with purposeful action—empowering communities, one child at a time.