By Nna Anulumadu
There was joy and thanksgiving in the Catholic Archdiocese of Onitsha as the Catholic Laity Council of Nigeria, Onitsha Episcopal Region, marked its 30th anniversary with a Thanksgiving Mass and award ceremony.
The celebration, held on Sunday, August 9th, 2026, at St. Mary’s Parish, Inland Town, Onitsha, brought together laity leaders, clergy, and members of CMO, CWO, and CYON from across the Onitsha Archdiocese to reflect on three decades of service to the Church and humanity.
In a homily during the anniversary Mass, Fr Samuel Uzondu commended the laity for their commitment to evangelization, charity, and the growth of the Church over the years. He charged them to remain steadfast in faith and to continue being the voice of the Church in the secular world.
Highpoints of the event included the presentation of merit awards to outstanding personalities who have distinguished themselves in service to God, the Church, and society; the launching of the maiden almanac; fundraising for a gospel van; and a send-forth for the immediate past executives. The awardees were recognized for their contributions in areas of leadership, evangelization, education, health, and community development.
The Chaplain of the Episcopal Region, Rev. Fr. Samuel Uzondu, speaking at the ceremony, expressed joy over the anniversary and called on the laity of the region to remain committed to propagating the gospel through good behavior, which he described as the best form of evangelization.
Also speaking, the President of the Catholic Laity Council, Onitsha Episcopal Region, Comrade Ben Chikezie (Uzu Akpund), described the 30-year milestone as a testament to God’s faithfulness and the dedication of lay faithful. He noted that the Council has remained a strong platform for empowering lay Catholics to participate actively in the mission of the Church.
He further urged members to sustain the tempo and to embrace unity, prayer, and selfless service as the Church navigates present challenges.
In an address read by the Secretary, Lady Dr. Melvina Ezeiruaku, the Council stated that thirty years in the vineyard of the Lord is a remarkable journey of faith, resilience, lay apostolate, spiritual growth, and unalloyed service to God and humanity. The Council commended the Archbishop of Onitsha, His Grace Most Rev. Valerian Okeke, for his fatherly support and care. They also made a few requests, including the allocation of a Laity Regional office, and active involvement and support from statutory bodies and pious societies, among others.
Dignitaries, parish councils, and various Catholic organizations graced the occasion with goodwill messages, pledging continued support for the lay apostolate.
Some of the awardees include: Sir Ikenna Oduma, Onitsha Archdiocesan President of Laity Council; High Chief Ogonna Olisa, (Ohammadike I), CEO, CEE-RAY Group of Companies, Father of the Day; Chief Chinonso Igwe, (Onwa), Chief Launcher; and Pharm. Adaeze Omaliko, Mother of the Day.
Others are Chief, Hon. Lady Ann Chukwuneke, (Ezenwanyi Gburugburu); Iyom Uju Ikpeama, Onitsha Regional President, CWO; Dr. Dora Unachukwu; Bro. Maduabuchukwu Ugo; Hon. Ijeoma Okafor; and Lady Okwy Udoezika.
