The Archbishop of the Metropolitan See of Lagos, Most Rev. Dr. Alfred Adewale Martins, has described the former Director of Social Communications of the Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos, Very Rev. Msgr. Gabriel Osu, as a compassionate priest whose life was devoted to the care and upliftment of children and young people.
Speaking during the funeral Mass of the late cleric at Holy Cross Cathedral, Lagos, Archbishop Martins said Msgr. Osu dedicated more than 45 years of his life to the service of God, humanity, and the Church, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, advocacy, and selfless service that would not be forgotten.
According to the Archbishop, the late priest was deeply committed to helping vulnerable children and youths find direction and purpose in life, often supporting and mentoring them to become responsible leaders in society.
He noted that Msgr. Osu was also a fearless voice for the poor and oppressed, using his position as Director of Social Communications to advocate for justice and challenge authorities to improve the welfare of citizens.
Reflecting on the recent abduction of over forty children across the country, Archbishop Martins lamented that the late cleric would have strongly spoken out against the tragedy were he still alive.
“As Director of Communications, Msgr. Gabriel Osu addressed issues of the common good and challenged the government to be alive to its responsibilities and make life better for citizens,” the Archbishop said.
“He gave us an example of patience in adversity. He was ill for nine years, and throughout those years he remained cheerful, humble, and hopeful in God. He taught us that no matter what we face in life, we must never stop caring for others.”
The Archbishop also called on government and security agencies to intensify efforts toward ending kidnappings and securing the release of abducted children across the country.
Earlier in his homily, the Episcopal Vicar for Lekki Region, Very Rev. Msgr. Pascal Nwaezeapu, described the late priest as a generous and joyful man whose presence brought comfort and happiness to people around him.
“Msgr. Osu was always fun to be with. You could never be around him and remain sad,” he said. “He used his gifts and voice to defend the Church and speak against societal ills.”
Also speaking, the current Director of Social Communications, Very Rev. Fr. Anthony Godonu, praised Msgr. Osu for mentoring him and encouraging him to pursue further studies in journalism.
“He impacted countless lives and worked tirelessly for the Church,” Fr. Godonu said. “We will miss him greatly.”
On behalf of the family, the deceased’s younger brother, Paul Osu, thanked the Archbishop, priests, religious, and members of the Archdiocese for standing by the late cleric throughout his prolonged illness.
Msgr. Gabriel Osu, a native of Ubulu-Uku in Delta State, was born on September 5, 1954, and ordained a Catholic priest in 1981. He served in several parishes within Lagos before passing away on Friday, May 8, 2026, after a prolonged illness.
Following funeral rites and vigil Masses held across Lagos, his remains were laid to rest at Ikoyi Cemetery after the funeral Mass at Holy Cross Cathedral.
Reporting By Fabian Anawo