By Olivia Obijiaku
The representatives of the clergy and the lay faithful of the Catholic Diocese of Zaria have commended their Chief Shepherd, Most Rev. Dr. Habila Tyiakonaboi Daboh for the tremendous successes he has recorded within his one year as their spiritual guide. This took place during the reception for the celebration of the first anniversary of the bishop at Christ the King Catholic Cathedral (CKCC), Sabo Gari Zaria. Saturday, 14th December, 2024.
In his speech, the Chairman, Council of Priests of the diocese, Rev Fr. Emmanuel Ezema highlighted pastoral, hospitality, liturgy, spirituality of the diocese, infrastructure, and relationship between the bishop and the priests as the key areas that bishop has greatly improved.
The spokesperson pinpointed that, “Our Bishop relates well with us, his priests. He treats us and respects us as if we are all of equal rank. Our Bishop is passionate about our welfare. He has activated health insurance for all the priests for the wellbeing of his priests. This will take effect in January 2025. He expressed deep concern and empathy for the priests in low income parishes by granting subsidy to improve their condition and by encouraging them with comforting words.”
“Our relationship with our Bishop is cordial. He is a father. He thinks of our welfare. He is practicing what Pope John XXIII asked bishops to do for their priests. The priests of the Catholic Diocese of Zaria are loved by their Bishop. We are eagerly ready and committed to work with him. He has prepared and watered the ground when he said, ‘What we all agree is what we shall do, so that we can work together and succeed in our diocese.”
Fr. Ezema expressed the clergy’s willingness and promise to support the Bishop through unalloyed obedience, undivided commitment, and burning passion to grow the diocese entrusted to his care. “We only want to hear what you want us to do and we will do it.” He summed.
Speaking on behalf of the lay faithful, the President of Laity Council of the diocese, Engr. Innocent Enesi Ibrahim (KSM) affirmed that Bishop Daboh has built bridges, fostered understanding, and promoted harmony through his effort to familiarize himself with every association and society within his jurisdiction.
He continued, “Your Lordship, your punctuality, humility, and dedication to every program has set a standard for us all. Your smile and encouraging words uplift and inspire us. In one year, you have charted a clear course for the diocese, sowing seeds of progress that promise a bountiful harvest.”
“Your efforts have laid the foundation for a brighter future, and we are confident that under your leadership, the diocese of Zaria will continue to flourish. We are blessed to have you as our shepherd. On this joyous occasion, we renew our commitment to supporting you in your mission of building a united, faith filled, and thriving diocese.”
