Ndagoso Elected New President Of Catholic Bishops Conference Of Nigeria

The Story of Archbishop Ndagoso’s Election as CBCN President

In the heart of Abuja, at the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, a new chapter unfolded for the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN). The bishops gathered for their first plenary assembly of 2026, and from their deliberations emerged a new leader: Archbishop Matthew Man-Oso Ndagoso of Kaduna.

He was elected as the new president of the CBCN, succeeding Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji of Owerri, whose four-year tenure had come to an end.

Archbishop Ndagoso’s journey to this moment is remarkable. Born on January 3, 1960, into a family rooted in traditional religion, he later embraced Catholicism, a decision that shaped his life’s path. His leadership within the Kaduna Archdiocese has been marked by resilience and dedication, qualities that now position him to guide the collective voice of Nigeria’s Catholic bishops.

The election was not just about one man; it was about a team entrusted with steering the affairs of the Church in Nigeria. Alongside Ndagoso, Archbishop Alfred Adewale Martins of Lagos was chosen as Vice President, Bishop Peter Kayode Odetoyinbo of Abeokuta as Secretary, and Bishop Peter Nworie Chukwu of Abakaliki as Assistant Secretary.

Together, they will serve for the next four years, shaping the spiritual and social engagement of the Catholic Church in Nigeria.

The CBCN, as the highest body of Catholic leadership in the country, plays a vital role not only in guiding the faithful but also in offering moral direction to society.

Archbishop Ndagoso’s election symbolizes continuity and renewal, a blending of tradition with fresh leadership. His tenure is expected to strengthen unity among bishops, deepen the Church’s pastoral mission, and amplify its voice in Nigeria’s national discourse.

Thus, the story of Archbishop Ndagoso’s election is more than an announcement, it is the beginning of a new era for the Catholic Church in Nigeria, one that carries the hopes of millions of faithful and the weight of moral responsibility in a nation seeking guidance.