Abuja:A Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Boniface Neibo, has called on the faithful, especially those in public service, to adhere to Christian values and promote ethical leadership as solutions to Nigeria’s challenges.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Neibo, who serves as the Deputy Director of the Cardinal Onaiyekan Foundation for Peace (COFP), made this appeal during the Golden Jubilee Anniversary Colloquium, Awards, and Dinner of the Knights of St. John International (KSJI) in Abuja. He emphasized that leadership is a fundamental challenge in Nigeria and encouraged Catholics to engage actively in politics and governance while maintaining their faith.
Neibo urged members of the Church not to remain indifferent to the country’s issues but to use their values to foster good governance and transform the political system. He stressed that Catholics entering politics should not compromise their principles but rather allow their Church-instilled ethics to guide them. Neibo also highlighted the importance of demonstrating faith through responsible actions and service to society, noting KSJI’s contributions through charitable activities and support for vulnerable populations.
He further emphasized the need for KSJI to ensure continuity by encouraging younger members, particularly married couples, to join and be mentored in its traditions, thereby preserving its legacy for future generations. Neibo praised the knights for their contributions to society, including visits to prisons and hospitals, support for orphans, and empowerment programs.
Brig.-Gen. Francis Njoku, Grand President of the Abuja Grand Commandery of KSJI, acknowledged the organization’s significant role in the development of the Catholic Church and support for vulnerable individuals across Nigeria over the past 50 years. He highlighted the order’s active involvement in local communities and parishes, including organizing a youth program that engaged over 700 participants to instill KSJI values.
Njoku also pointed out the challenges of social media, artificial intelligence, and economic hardship on the upbringing of young people, expressing hope for government interventions to alleviate these economic difficulties. Noble Sister Chinwe Mbajaka, Supreme Second Vice-President of the Ladies Auxiliary of KSJI, called for concerted efforts to tackle Nigeria’s pressing issues, such as insecurity, unemployment, and poverty, while detailing the organization’s ongoing support for the Church through various initiatives.
The Golden Jubilee Anniversary Colloquium, Awards, and Dinner marked 50 years of KSJI’s presence in Nigeria, reflecting on its contributions to the Church and society.