The Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama, has called for greater religious tolerance among faith groups in Nigeria, warning that the persistent climate of intolerance continues to hinder the nation’s development.
Kaigama made the call on Saturday during the 25th Priestly Anniversary celebration of the Auxiliary Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Most Rev. Ernest Obodo, held at St. Mary Catholic Church in Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State.
The event began with a Holy Mass presided over by the Metropolitan Archbishop of Onitsha, His Grace, Most Rev. Valerian Okeke.
Delivering the homily, Archbishop Kaigama decried the level of religious intolerance in Nigeria, which he described as “very severe,” stressing that unless addressed, the nation would continue to “make three steps forward and five steps backward.”
Citing literary icon Chinua Achebe, Kaigama recalled that Nigeria’s problems were identified as bad leadership, corruption, and tribalism, adding that religious intolerance and fanaticism must now be included in that list.
He urged the Catholic Church in Eastern Nigeria to show more solidarity with the Church in the North, considering the prevailing socio-economic, cultural, and religious challenges facing the country.
Kaigama also appealed to political leaders to promote fairness, equity, and inclusive governance. “No part of this country should be marginalised,” he said. “There must be honesty, transparency, and accountability in the handling of our national resources.”
Reflecting on personal experiences, he revealed that his village had once been destroyed and its traditional ruler subordinated to religious authorities, with government response coming only three years ago.
“Nigerians expect from leaders the corporal works of mercy: feed the hungry, give water to the thirsty, care for the sick, educate the children, support prisoners and the poor,” he said. “We must maintain our roads, schools, and hospitals—not just open them during emergencies.”
The Archbishop also emphasized the need for a shift in public mentality, noting that some citizens treat government resources as personal property to be used recklessly.
Turning to the celebrant, Kaigama praised Bishop Obodo and his classmates for 25 years of dedicated priestly service. “Today, we thank God for their vocation, perseverance, and the grace that has sustained them through both joy and trials,” he said.
In his remarks, Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, described Bishop Obodo as a shining example of humility and service, particularly noting his efforts to empower people through agriculture.
“There’s something you represent that we must continue to imbibe — the true spirit of service,” Mbah said. “Your humility is truly disarming.”
Bishop Obodo expressed his gratitude to God and all who attended the celebration, revealing that 33 bishops from across Nigeria were part of the event — 20 physically present and 13 represented.
He also thanked God for preserving the lives of the 10 priests from his ordination class of 2000. “We are all healthy and hearty, and we give gratitude to God,” he said.
The event was graced by numerous priests, lay faithful, traditional rulers, and government officials from across the country.
