By Toyin Adeniyi
The Catholic community in Lagos and across Nigeria is mourning the passing of Rev. Monsignor Gabriel Osu, a priest whose life embodied service, communication, and unwavering dedication to the Church.
Monsignor Osu, former Director of Social Communications of the Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos, died on Friday, May 8, 2026, at the age of 72 after decades of priestly service marked by humility and steadfast devotion to God.
For many Catholics in Lagos, he was more than a priest, he was, a bridge between the Church and the public, and a man whose presence carried both dignity and warmth.
Born in Ubulu-Uku, Delta State, Monsignor Osu was ordained into the Catholic priesthood on December 5, 1981. Over more than four decades of ministry, he served in several parishes and institutions, including Holy Cross Cathedral, St. Gregory’s College, St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Oshodi, St. Paul Catholic Church, Ebute-Metta and Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church, Lekki, where he served faithfully until his passing.
Yet beyond the altar, Monsignor Osu became widely respected for his role in Catholic communications and journalism.
As Director of Social Communications for the Archdiocese of Lagos, he helped shape the Church’s engagement with the media at a time when credibility, wisdom, and clarity were needed. He was also known for his contributions to Catholic journalism as Editor-in-Chief of the Catholic Herald, where he helped sustain thoughtful religious discourse and public engagement.
To journalists who interacted with him over the years, Monsignor Osu was accessible, thoughtful, and deeply knowledgeable.
Gboyega Osifowora who worked with TVC now based in the US described the late communicator as, “very fatherly’
He recalled how had journalists comfortable whenever they came around for news.
“Monsignor Osu was a spiritual figure. He made my journalism journey a pleasant particularly in the catholic archdiocese. He is going to be sorely missed. He was always there for me at the shortest notice.”
In a tribute shared on Facebook, media professional Ayodele Ezekiel Ozugboko described the late priest as “one of the most cerebral and humane priests” he had ever met. Recalling his days as a young reporter in Lagos, Ozugboko wrote that Monsignor Osu was always willing to grant interviews and offer thoughtful perspectives on national issues.
According to him, the relationship between the priest and journalists extended beyond official interactions as Monsignor Osu consistently welcomed media practitioners with warmth and hospitality.
Mr Ozugboko also reflected on the late cleric’s involvement during Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle, noting that he stood alongside respected Catholic leaders in speaking against military rule and injustice in the country.
But even more touching are the deeply personal memories emerging from friends and families whose lives he quietly touched.
In another heartfelt Facebook tribute by Plants Perfect’s post, a family friend affectionately referred to him as “Falasu” describing him as “a man so simple, so unassuming, yet so deeply impactful.”
In the tribute he recalled how he journeyed with families through important moments of life and faith, baptizing children, encouraging dreams, and offering support that extended far beyond priestly obligations.
“He had that rare ability to make people feel seen, valued, and at ease,” the tribute read.
Those words perhaps capture the essence of Monsignor Gabriel Osu’s ministry more than titles or positions ever could.
Though highly respected in Church and public circles, he remained approachable and cheerful. Those who knew him speak of his humour, kindness, and ability to connect effortlessly with people from different walks of life.
Rev. Fr. Anthony Godonu, who succeeded him as Director of Social Communications of the Archdiocese of Lagos, also remembered him as warm, joyful, and deeply committed to the Church.
Monsignor Osu understood that communication was not merely about delivering statements, but about building understanding, offering hope, and reflecting compassion.
His passing marks the end of an era for Catholic communications in Lagos, but his legacy remains firmly alive in the lives he touched, the journalists he mentored, the faithful he guided, and the countless people encouraged by his words and presence.
Though the Church mourns his departure, many believe the seeds he planted through faith, friendship, and service will continue to bear fruit for generations to come.
The church according to reports has fixed May 27th and 28th of May as days for his funeral rites