By Olivia Obijiaku
The flag-off of the silver jubilee anniversary of the Catholic diocese of Zaria held in Christ the King Catholic Cathedral (CKCC), Sabo Gari, Zaria on Saturday, May 30, 2026. The Chief Shepherd of the diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Habila Tyiakonaboi Daboh intimated during the Mass that the proceeds from the jubilee would be used to start the erection of a diocesan secretariat, which would be named after the pioneer bishop of the diocese, the late Most Rev. Dr. George Jonathan Dodo, as a way of immortalizing him.
“We are going to use whatever money we raise to begin our secretariat in the diocese. We will build it in memory of our pioneer bishop, Most Rev. Jonathan George Dodo. May his soul continue to rest in peace! May he intercede for us! So, your contribution means a lot. My contribution means a lot. May God give us the grace we need, grant us the confidence, the conviction we need, so that we do this through Christ Our Lord.”
His Lordship solicited the support of the faithful in making the jubilee a huge success and in kick starting the Silver Jubilee Project: ‘Bishop George Dodo Secretariat.’ The jubilee logo and banner, bearing the theme: ‘Catholic Diocese of Zaria: Celebrating 25 Anniversary. Rooted in Faith Growing in Mission (Col.2:6-7) were unveiled. The jubilee prayer was also introduced, reading in part, ‘We remember with gratitude the vision of the pioneers, the sacrifices of missionaries, and the steadfast faith of Your faithful people who have laboured in Your vineyard with love.’
He threw light on the logo, banner and prayer, charging the flock to reflect the image of the diocese positively. Seeking God’s direction and the intercession of the Blessed Virgin as they journey towards the grand finale of the anniversary which is expected to take place on December 12, 2026, the bishop expressed belief that the God who brought the diocese thus far would lead it to higher heights.
“Every logo tells a story and expresses identity. But beyond this physical logo, the real logo of this diocese should be our lives. And so, whatever we do today goes beyond the logo. It goes a long way in identifying ourselves not only with our diocese, but with one another, and it is from there that we have the capacity of growing together. The prayer is to ask God to direct us, to lead us and to show us the way. “
“And so, as we officially begin this jubilee today, let us renew our trust in God. The God who began this good work will bring it to completion. The God who sustained us in the past will sustain us again. The God who opened the door will continue to open new doors for this diocese. May Our Lady, the Mother of the Church intercede for us! May the Holy Spirit guide every step of this journey! May the Almighty God bless this diocese abundantly as we joyfully and faithfully prepare for the celebration of our Silver Jubilee in December!”
