VOL
9. NO. 19 October PUBLICATION
Papal
Nuncio Calls For Good Resource Management
Apostolic
Nuncio Exhorts Nigerians, Commends Gov Obi
Ndimgbu
Community Elects New Exco
Law
Maker Faults Appointment Of Commissioners
Triple
Tragedy At Ihiala
JOS CRISIS: Perpetrators Should Be Brought
To Book
Prof Anene Becomes ANSU Acting VC
NCDC
Boss, Udeigbo Salute Obi On Re-election
“Bigard
Memorial Seminary Held 39th Convocation
NCDC Abuja Hosts Bishop Hilary Okeke
Awka Diocese Buries 2 Priests
Ahead 2010: Brazil's Record Five World
Cup Victories
PAPAL NUNCIO CALLS FOR GOOD RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
The
Papal Nuncio to Chad and Central African Republic, Most
Rev. Jude Thaddeus Okolo has called for good resource
management among Nigerians.
Archbishop Okolo made this call during a dual celebration
to mark Nigeria's fifty years anniversary and his second
Episcopal Ordination at Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral
Nnewi on Monday, September 26.
He called on Nigerians not to waste resources but to channel
and manage them intelligently. “We can minimize
our waste and manage our resources reasonably,”
he said, citing as an example, the rampant use of GSM
phones which indirectly impoverishes us and enriches the
service providers; and called on all to use the phone
wisely.
The Papal Nuncio commended the efforts of Nigerian priests
both in and outside Nigeria saying, “I am happy
that our priests are dedicated to duty and service of
the church and others.” He disclosed that among
27 priests working in Chad Republic, 5 are Nigerians and
are doing wonderfully well. He also commended religious
Sisters working in Chad for their efforts.
The Archbishop described Job from the first reading of
the day as a man of detachment who has confidence in God's
providence, and called for detachment from the things
of this world. According to him, “the more we are
detached from material things, the more we are closer
to God. He charged priests to be dedicated to God.
Describing Nnewi Diocese as one surrounded with financial
values, he called on priests to be careful so as not to
deviate their attention from higher values to material
things because of the surrounding around them.
On Nigeria' fifty years anniversary, Archbishop Okolo
described Nigeria as a trail blazer, a giant in Africa
“Nigeria stands out as a giant; she is regarded
as a trail blazer and is supposed to chart a course where
there is none.” He noted that in as much as expectations
are high both from their leaders and the led, Nigeria
has recorded a success story but more can still be achieved.
To the leaders, the Nuncio called for clear orientation
and focus and to the led, they should work with the leaders
and make the country great.
He stated that about seventeen countries in Africa are
celebrating their independence this year but that Nigeria
stands out; noting though that Senegal poses a challenge
to Nigeria to this effect in that they have not witnessed
any civil war or coupe d' etat though there are still
effects of slave trade in that country.
Archbishop Okolo noted that the Catholic Church has contributed
immensely towards the development of Nigeria as an entity
since independence, both in concrete and abstract terms,
through sound faith. He noted that there is no part of
Nigeria where there is no Catholic faithful. “The
Catholic Church does not make noise, does not impose her
teachings on people, they are like salt to the earth.”
On sound education, he noted that most of the best schools
in the country especially before the government take-over
and even now are owned by the Catholic Church. The health
services are not left out as they have good hospitals,
he said.
`Through good leadership, the Catholic Church through
the clergy and her members in higher positions has been
very efficient using various services at their disposal
for effective management of resources.
He noted that the church bequeathed a sense of responsibility
to Nigerian citizens. “There is the formation of
moral conscience. Creating a sense of confidence in church
institutions, that is, having respect for religious institutions,
creating of awareness of the moral freedom and courage
to stand up to moral uprightness are values the church
inculcates to her members,” the Nuncio stated.
The prelate described Nigerians as good people, very generous
and tolerant and urged the leaders to help in alleviating
the sufferings of the people through good leadership and
governance. He called on all to always look for what they
will offer the state and the church not just what the
state or church will offer them.
He noted that 50 years is an opportunity to thank God
and prayed for God's blessing on Nigerians.
He thanked the Bishop of Nnewi Diocese for giving him
the opportunity to celebrate in the diocese and also thanked
his brother priests for their fraternal love. He also
thanked all present for gracing the occasion.
In a vote of thanks, the Vicar General of the diocese,
Rev. Fr. Patrick Ezeobata on behalf of the Bishop of the
Diocese, and the entire presbytery congratulated the Nuncio
for marking his second Episcopal .^
TOP
APOSTOLIC NUNCIO EXHORTS NIGERIANS, COMMENDS GOV OBI
The Apostolic Nuncio to Chad and Central
African Republic, Arch-Bishop Jude Okolo says the fiftieth
anniversary celebration of Nigeria is time for thanksgiving
in appreciation of God's grace to the country. Most Reverend
Okolo was speaking in a sermon during a Eucharistic Mass
to mark the anniversary celebration at Saint Patrick Cathedral,
Awka.
Most Rev. Okolo said Nigerians should express gratitude
to God for achievements recorded so far as well as use
the opportunity to reflect on the past with a view to
correcting mistakes and charting a new course.
He stressed the need for collective efforts towards national
development as growth of every society starts from grassroots
with contributions from individuals.
The Apostolic Nuncio who regretted the lack of planning
on the environment urged Governor Obi to sustain the proper
planning of his projects. He commended the Governor for
entrenching principles of good governance and urged him
to remain transparent, upright and courageous.
Most Reverend Okolo who lamented the level of mass poverty
across the world, enjoined privileged members of the society
to give necessary assistance to the under-privileged and
the handicapped.
He recalled that the Catholic Church in the country has
within the last fifty years among other things developed
moral conscience of the people, championed the struggle
against colonialism, supported good governance and promoted
respect for social institutions to enhance good followership.
In his speech, Governor Peter Obi thanked God for keeping
and blessing the country for fifty years. Governor Obi
said Nigerians should be proud to celebrate the journey
so far and contribute in building a brighter future with
enough opportunity for the children.
Governor Obi who extolled Most Red. Okolo for making the
State and country proud reassured that his administration
will continue to celebrate indigenes of the State that
distinguished themselves in various fields of life.
^
TOP
TRIPLE
TRAGEDY AT IHIALA
Tuesday, 16 March 2010 would for long remain a harrowing
memory of triple tragedy for Ihalal residents in general
and Holy Ghost Juniorate Ihiala in particular following
the tragic death of Mrs Mariana Elusiahu, a Biology teacher
in the school, alongside her husband, Peter and their
two-year old son, Chigozie in a ghastly auto crash. The
ugly incident was said to have occurred along the Savinovo
area of Ihiala.
According to a reliable source, they were said to be going
home at about 7 pm when a trailer driver hit them from
the back, instantly killing her and Chigozie.
Late Mrs Elusiahu was last seen that evening having a
revision class with her students in view of their up coming
school certificate examination. At the end of the lesson,
she was said to have encouraged the students in her usual
motherly way to be focused in their academic studies emphasizing
that their success and future were of paramount to her.
Few hours later, our source added, pandemonium out broke
among the students in their hostels when the news of Mrs
Elusiahu's death was announced, worst still, occurring
alongside her little son who she was reported to have
brought along with her same evening to school.
Mr Peter Elusiahu, also a teacher in one of the schools
at Ihiala was rushed to the nearest hospital where he
died the following morning, Wednesday, 17.
Mariana came from the Nwanyia family in Mbosi and was
married into the Elusiahu family of Umudara, Ihiala. She
was described as dedicated, amiable and one with a burning
zeal for the Lord. Her peaceful and warm nature would
be missed by her students and colleagues while the burial
arrangement of the three is yet to be announced as at
press time.
TOP
JOS
CRISIS: PERPETRATORS SHOULD BE BROUGHT TO BOOK
Bishop Godwin Okpala
By Oliver-Ross Udeafor
The Bishop of the Diocese of Nnewi Anglican Communion,
Rt Rev. Dr. Godwin Okpala has called for those behind
the killing of people at Jos to be brought to book.
Bishop Okpala who made the call in an interview with newsmen
said that it was unfortunate that some people are killing
their fellow human beings under the guise of religion,
noting that no religion in the world preaches killing
of other people.
The Anglican Bishop who was asked to react to the continued
crisis in Jos started by saying, “It is unfortunately
that, that kind of fracas will continue to repeat itself.
I don't know if they do it in the name of religion or
what. I don't know which religion in the world asks people
to kill their brothers and sisters like that. So it is
unfortunate. I think the federal government should now
take a definite stand on such an issue. Let them use this
one as an example whereby culprits will be brought to
book.
“It is very, very uncivilized to have people at
this modern time being mowed down in the name of religion,
it is unfortunate. So I am condemning it in its totality.
Those who planned and those who support it, all of them
should be brought to book because they are just wasting
the lives of innocent people for nothing sake. So my advice
is that all those perpetrators should sheath their swords
and instead go to the round table and resolve the cause
of the problem and they will only do that with the help
of the federal government who holds the power unless they
tell us that they are incapable of maintaining peace.
“They should use this as a test case and put their
feet down and protect the people of the country as they
have being saying. They should do something now because
many souls are bleeding because of the wanton destruction
of lives and property in the place.
“It has happened not once, not twice, it has been
happening there. So let government now prove that they
are up to the task by bringing to book those behind the
killing and the crisis.”
Meanwhile, the Bishop has said that everything is in top
gear towards the Diocesan Synod which will take place
at St. Mary's Pro-Cathedral, Uruagu Nnewi in June this
year. The prelate said that the synod has as its theme
“Good news for the suffering world,” taken
from the Gospel of St. Luke, Chapter 4, verse 18&19.
Bishop Okpala who said that the topic was chosen due to
the suffering being witnessed now in the world, noted
that Jesus Christ has good news for those who are suffering,
which he said he would reveal on the day of the synod.
^
TOP
PROF ANENE BECOMES ANSU ACTING VC
By Theo Rays
Professor Chukwunenye Anene has assumed duty as the Acting
Vice-Chancellor of Anambra State University, after a colourful
ceremony to mark the handover of the leadership of the
University at the Senate Chamber, Uli Campus.
In his handover speech the former Vice-Chancellor of the
university, Prof. Ifeanacho Paul Orajaka expressed joy
over the monumental achievements in the university during
his five years of piloting the affairs of the university.
According to him, there have been tremendous improvements
in infrastructure, staff and programmes· as all
programmes are accredited. Prof. Orajaka however stated
that, he achieved the feat as a result of the cooperation
he received from all the staff and students of the university
beckoning on them to extend the same fellowship to the
Acting Vice-Chancellor whom he described as his academic
son, adding that it is a continuation of the good works
in the university.
The former Vice-Chancellor made bold to say that he is
fulfilled having contributed to the development of the
young university, but asked for the forgiveness of those
he may have hurt in the course of executing the functions
of his office.
In his own speech, the former Deputy Vice-Chancellor,
Igbariam Campus, now the Acting Vice-Chancellor Prof.
Chukwunenye Anene eulogized the person of Prof. Orajaka
as having come, seen and conquered, extolling him for
his doggedness and tenacity of purpose positing that Prof.
Orajaka has left an enduring peace and tranquility in
the university which must be kept as a legacy, adding
that it is peace and tranquility that is going to be his
administration's watchword and solicited for the cooperation
of all so as to succeed like the former Vice-Chancellor.
There were speeches from the high ranking officers of
the university who paid glowing tributes to the former
Vice-Chancellor, praying for his good health in all future
endeavours. Such officers included the Registrar and Secretary
to the Council of the university Mr. Sam Ofoegbu; the
Coordinator, Part-time/Weekend Programme, Rev Sister Dr.
Felicia Opara and Dean Faculty of Law, Prof. Eugene Nwogugu.
Vote of thanks was given by the Dean Student Affairs,
Dr. Nkem Chendo.
High point on the occasion was the handing over of the
affairs of the university by the former Vice-Chancellor,
Prof. Orajaka to the Acting Vice-Chancellor Prof. Anene,
toast for the health of the former Vice-Chancellor and
that of the University. Later there were group photographs
with the former Vice-Chancellor and the Acting Vice-Chancellor.
Present at the Handover ceremony were the University Bursar,
Prince Chinedu Okeke; University Librarian, Mr. Norbert
Agbanu among Deans, Directors, and Coordinators in the
university.
^
TOP
NCDC
BOSS, UDEIGBO SALUTE OBI ON RE-ELECTION
As New Board for Dominion MF Bank Ihembosi
Emerges
By Okechukwu Ezeike
The Chairman, Nnewi Catholic Diocesan Community (NCDC)
Aba branch, Dr. Alphonsus Udeigbo (kpakpando Ihembosi)
has described the recent re-election of Governor Peter
Gregory Obi of Anambra State as a true test of Obi's popularity
among the legion of candidates who contested along with
him for the soul of the state, pledging his total support
to the government at all times, even as the Dominion Micro
Finance bank Ihembosi elected new board of directors.
Dr. Udeigbo, an outstanding philanthropist, who has not
only bettered the lives and conditions of millions of
widows nationwide via his Widows' Organization International
(WOI) but has economically empowered youths in and outside
his community, told The Christian Outlook in a one-on-one
chat shortly after the annual general meeting (AGM) of
the Dominion Micro Finance Bank Limited Ihembosi Ekwusigo
council area of Anambra State that Obi's victory during
the February 6, 2010 guber poll was as a result of Obi's
excellent tract records of achievements during his first
four years as the governor and called on Anambrarians
to continue supporting the governor so as to ginger him
into doing more for the people.
Dr. Udeigbo who is also the chairman, board of directors
of the Dominion Micro Finance Bank Ihembosi used the forum
to laud the Catholic bishop of Nnewi diocese Most Rev,
Hilary Odili Okeke (Nnaora) for successfully piloting
the affairs of the diocese, which recently celebrated
eight years of accelerated successes and accomplishments.
Meanwhile, a nine member board of directors of the bank
has been elected by the shareholders, who expressed happiness
and satisfaction with the bank's management under Mrs.
Uche Igwe, a seasoned banker as the managing director.
Those elected were the deputy Speaker, Anambra State legislature
Hon. Afam Obi, Chief Tochukwu Ejezie, Chief Chukwudebelu,
Mrs. Uche Duru; Lady (Lolo) Regina Udeigbo. Others were
Chief Titus Udeigbo; Dr. Chief Alphonsus Udeigbo (kpakpando
Ihembosi); Chief Ezementus Mbonu (Baba dudu) Dr. Godwin
Duru. The chairman, board of directors, Dr Alphonsus Udeigbo
(kpakpando Ihembosi) in an address of welcome presented,
told the cheerful-looking shareholders that the Anambra
State government has "appointed your bank as one
of the Micro Finance banks to disburse the NAPEP loan
in the year 2008." He disclosed that Dominion Micro
Finance bank limited Ihembosi was among the top ten micro
finance banks in the state which was given the privilege,
because Dominion micro finance bank limited is healthy.
He solicited continued support and cooperation of the
share holders to the bank management and board of directors
to lift the bank to the next level. However, the president,
Catholic Women Organization (CWO) of St. Anthony's Parish
Ihembosi, Mrs. Pauline Mbanusi, who is a shareholder,
in an interview with The Christian Outlook described the
members of the directors of the bank as men and women
of proven integrity and assured them of shareholders'
support and solidarity.
TOP
“Bigard
Memorial Seminary Held 39th Convocation
By Obi Anaeme
ENUGU: The 39th convocation ceremony of Bigard Memorial
Seminary in affiliation with Urban University Rome kicked
off on the 18th day of March 2010 with a football match
used as a gesture of welcome to all the invitees especially
to Most Rev. Dr. John Okoye, the Bishop of Awgu diocese
and the graduands.
The second part of the convocation ceremony began the
following day 19th March with a concelebrated Holy Mass
led by Bishop John Okoye. In the homily, the Bishop Okoye
implored and encouraged the seminarians to make themselves
available for the formation through sincere resolutions.
After the Mass, all gathered at the seminary auditorium
for the third part of the convocation which was declared
open with the opening prayers by Fr. Francis Ezumezu.
Afterwards, the Rector of Bigard Memorial Seminary, Very
Rev. Fr. Theophilius Ukoro Igwe presented a welcome address.
Bishop Okoye then gave the keynote address.
Rev. Fr. Linus Okika gave a paper presentation on the
theme “Democracy and Human Development in Nigeria:
Problem and Prospect”.
Thereafter, Rev. Fr. Dr. Mellitus Ossai, the Dean of Philosophy
faculty presented the graduands from the Faculty of Philosophy
in which ten students graduated with First Class Honours,
sixty five students with Second Class Upper Division,
seventy students with Second Class Lower Division and
eleven students made it with Third Class Honours. The
same presentation was made from the Faculty of Theology
where six students graduated with First Class Honours,
eight three students with Second Class Upper Division,
thirty-three students with Second Class Lower Division
and four with Third Class Honours.
Finally, the best of the graduating theology students,
Rev. Fr. Vitus Nwosu gave the valedictory speech. The
Rector of Blessed Cyprain Iwene Tansi seminary gave the
vote of thanks while the Rector of St. Bernard Hostel
Nchatancha said the closing prayer that brought the ceremony
to an end.
^
TOP
NCDC ABUJA HOSTS BISHOP HILARY OKEKE
By Obi Anaeme
ABUJA: Nnewi Catholic Diocesan Community (NCDC)
Abuja branch organized a dinner party in honour of Most
Rev. Hilary Okeke in appreciation for his marvelous deeds
in the Catholic Diocese of Nnewi. This event took place
at the banquette hall of Top Rank Hotel Area II Abuja.
During the dinner party, some members of the NCDC were
honoured by His Lordship, Most Rev. Hilary Okeke with
an award of excellence for their altruistic services and
generous contributions towards the growth of the diocese.
The metropolitan of Abuja Ecclesiastical province, Archbishop
John Onayekan and host of other sisters and brothers were
also present at the occasion.
Furthermore, the next day, His Lordship and his entourage
were warmly received by Senator Ikechukwu Obiora and Hon
CID Maduabum at Sen. Ikechukwu's compound in Asokoro Abuja
along with Senator Joy Emordi and a host of others. Their
benevolence towards the growth of our diocese manifested
itself through their generous and positive contributions.
In appreciation to such wonderful gesture, Bishop Okeke
thanked all for their wonderful spirit of brotherhood
and their assistance so far in building the diocese. The
bishop also thanked Fr Bona Ukatu (coordinator of NCDC),
Sir Peter Okolo (Chairman of NCDC Abuja) and Fr Ofordum
Emeka under whose aegis this event was orchestrated.
^
TOP
AWKA
DIOCESE BURIES 2 PRIESTS
By Chinonyelum Ojiaku
AWKA: It was with great pain and heavy heart
that Awka diocesan faithful gathered at St. Patrick's
Cathedral, Awka to mourn the death of her two priests:
Late Rev. Msgr. Martin Okpala and Late Rev. Fr. Joseph
Nwafor on Monday 12th April, 2010.
Speaking during the homily of the Requiem Mass, Rev Fr
Damian Anuka described the demise of the priests as a
great loss to the Diocese and observed that for the first
time Awka Diocese is burying two priests at a time.
He pointed out that the two priests lived humble, selfless
and worthy lives of emulation and died in active services.
Late Fr. Joseph was known and fondly called by friends
“Ezi solu onye” which means that everyone
is free to maintain his or her position provided they
reach the same goal. He urged all to borrow a leaf from
it.
Similarly, Late Msgr Martin Okpala would always be remembered
for his generosity to the church. He offered everything
he had for the good of the church and humanity.
He thanked God for their lives and prayed for the repose
of their souls. Fr. Anuka further consoled the 'Bigard
77' classmates of Msgr Okpala and 'Bigard 83' classmates
of Fr Joseph Nwafor.
Giving the vote of thanks after the Mass the Auxiliary
Bishop of Awka Diocese Most Rev Paulinus Ezeokafor thanked
all who graced the occasion especially Bishop Emeritus
of Orlu, Most Rev Gregory Ochiagha; Bishop Emeritus of
Isselu Uku, Most Rev. Emmanuel Otteh; Bishop of Aba, Most
Rev. Vincent Ezeonyia; Bishop of Okigwe, Most Rev. Solomon
Amatu and Bishop of Nnewi, Most Rev Hilary Okeke and other
Bishop's representatives from other Diocese.
In a tribute to late Msgr Martin Okpala, the president
of 'Bigard 77' priests Rev. Fr. Patrick Ezeobata described
him as “one of the strongest links to the 'Bigard
77' priests who for the 33 years in his life as a priest
was Goodness personified and known for his meekness, humility,
affability, humour, zeal, charity, hardwork, holiness
of life, priestly integrity and commitment.”
Until their death Msgr Martin Okpala, aged 63 and hailed
from Akpo in Aguata LGA was the Rector of St. John Bosco
Seminary Isuaniocha; Rev. Fr. Joseph Nwafor, aged 57 and
from Ajali in Orumba North LGA of Anamba State was the
parish priest of St Mary's parish Ezinifte.
^
TOP
AHEAD 2010:
BRAZIL'S RECORD FIVE WORLD CUP VICTORIES
Favourites
in South Africa
Five-time world
Cup champions, Brazil go into the 2010 mundial as outright
favourites to clinch a record sixth championship- and
rightly so.
The whole nation of over 170 million people expects nothing
less than another glorious victory in South Africa, and
success would seal their place as one of the all-time
great teams.
They are also the Copa America and Confederations Cup
Champions, and not since 1982 have the Selecao gone into
the World Cup so confident of winning. Perhaps, one would
argue that the 2006 squad to Germany had similar potentials
to defend the trophy won four years back, but the vastly
experienced former coach, Carlos Alberto Parreira failed
an entire nation when he chose to play names rather than
fitness. Roberto Carlos on the left had past his prime
just like Emerson, while Cafu had lost pace, yet Parreira
stuck to them. Ronaldo was also considered ahead of Adriano
who was in a blistering form then and Ronaldinho was played
out of position. It was not surprising when France stopped
them at the Q-finals.
In came manager Dunga whose captainship ended Brazil's
long drought when the team won the world cup in USA 1994.
After a shaky start in the early stages, Dunga successfully
re-organized the team having brought his managerial expertise
to bear.
Unlike Parreira's approach to the 2006 world cup, Dunga's
strongest point remains his belief on fitness. Not even
the clamour for the recall of Milanace and two time world
player of the year, Ronaldinho, or even world cup all
time top scorer, Ronaldo could move Dunga at the moment.
Dunga insists personal glory will be set aside as Brazil
gun for yet another world crown.
“The best players will make Brazil's squad to South
Africa, not necessarily the biggest names. I simply want
to do my best so that Brazil will be the world champions
again. The most important thing is that Brazil reach the
final and win. Though I am not ruling out anybody for
now, fitness will determine the choice of players at last,”
Dunga hinted.
With his squad, Brazil has gone 20 matches unbeaten, topped
the South America World Cup qualifying table and equaled
France's record of back-to-back victories at the Confederations
cup. They have now won the trophy a record three times;
the Brazilian public would not have demanded for more.
The only missing silver ware from Dunga's belt is the
world cup, hence he is giving it every shot to join the
likes of Parreira, Mario Zagalo and Germany Franz Beckenbeur
who have won the ultimate prize as players and coaches.
Does Brazil Coach Dunga have the easiest or the toughest
job at the World Cup this summer. An initial glance at
the awesome artillery Brazil can afford to choose from
sends a shiver of pleasure and anticipation down your
spine.
No other side, at either club or international level,
has such an array of talent, at the back, middle and forward
lines. At his prime, skipper Lucio is playing his best
football at the heart of the defence. Inter Milan increasingly
eccentric keeper Julio Cesar is fast proving to be one
of the safest hands, while Maicon and Danny Alves are
super modern day full backs. Roma elastic defender, Juan
is equally on top of his game. Latest revelation Juventus
Felipe Melo and Elano make the middle exciting with their
vision, while defensively minded midfielder Gilberto Silva
has done superbly well in his role. The attacking options
are super.
Robinho in Brazil's colour is always at his effervescent
best, Luis Fabiano has since proved to be a worthy heir
to Ronaldo then Kaka and Lyon, Fred are in great shape.
It is only in Brazil national team that you have super
talents like Chelsea defender, Alex, Juventus Diego, Baptista,
Milan youth prodigy, Pato and Ronaldinho including Wolfsburg's
Grafite struggling to make the team. Certainly, Dunga
has an embarrassing option of star performers to work
with.
The Samba stars, who have featured in every edition of
the world cup since it rolled out in 1930 will certainly
avoid complacency if they hope for an eventful championship
especially with the likes of Spain, England and even,
Argentina showing good form of late.
In the last edition, we reviewed how Brazil won the world
cup back-to-back in Sweden 1958 and Chile, 1962. Outlook
Sports here refreshes your mind on how Brazil completed
the record five world cup wins.
