Opening Mass of the First Plenary of the 2026 Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) formally commenced its First Plenary of 2026 today, Sunday, February 22, at the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria in Durumi, Abuja.
The event began with the solemn Opening Mass, a liturgical celebration that set the spiritual tone for the week-long deliberations of the bishops.
The Mass was presided over by Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama, who delivered a homily emphasizing unity, pastoral responsibility, and the urgent need for the Church to be a beacon of hope amid Nigeria’s challenges. He reminded the faithful and the bishops present that their mission is not only to shepherd the flock but also to speak boldly against injustice, insecurity, and moral decay in society.
The liturgy was marked by the enthronement of the Holy Bible, performed by Bishop Anthony Ewhwerido of Warri, symbolizing the centrality of God’s Word in guiding the bishops’ reflections and decisions.
The congregation joined in singing both the National Anthem and the Papal Anthem, underscoring the dual commitment of the Church to its Nigerian identity and its universal communion with Rome.
Following the Mass, the official opening ceremony unfolded with remarks from Dr. Mike Omeri, former Director General of the National Orientation Agency, who served as chairman of the occasion.
Archbishop Lucius Ugorji, President of the CBCN, delivered a keynote address in which he called on the Federal Government to urgently address Nigeria’s worsening insecurity and ensure credible elections in 2027. He warned that unchecked violence and declining voter participation pose grave threats to the nation’s democracy.
The Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria, Archbishop Michael Francis Crotty, also addressed the gathering, conveying the goodwill and prayers of Pope Francis. His message highlighted the importance of solidarity among bishops and the need for the Nigerian Church to remain steadfast in its witness to peace and justice.
Goodwill messages from invited dignitaries rounded off the opening session, reinforcing the collaborative spirit between the Church and society. The atmosphere throughout the day was one of solemnity, hope, and resolve, as the bishops prepared to engage in discussions that will shape the pastoral direction of the Catholic Church in Nigeria for the year ahead.
The Opening Mass and ceremony thus marked not only the beginning of the plenary but also a reaffirmation of the Church’s prophetic voice in Nigeria’s national life.
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