Welcome to the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria
As Nigeria eagerly awaits the arrival of a new Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji sheds light on the gifts and challenges facing the Church in Africa’s most populous nation.
By Sr. Katleho Khang, SNJM & Devin Watkins
On July 16, Pope Francis appointed Archbishop Michael Francis Crotty as the new Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria, although he has not yet assumed his role.
Archbishop Ugorji, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, shared his optimism about Archbishop Crotty’s leadership, emphasizing the strengthening of bonds between the Holy See and the Church in Nigeria.
As an Irish Archbishop, Archbishop Ugorji sees Archbishop Crotty’s presence as a tribute to the Irish missionaries who spread Christianity across Nigeria.
Since Archbishop Antonio Guido Filipazzi’s reassignment in September 2023, Nigeria has been without a Nuncio. Archbishop Ugorji reaffirmed the Nigerian Bishops’ support for the new Nuncio’s mission.
Pastoral and Leadership Challenges
Archbishop Ugorji discussed the political, socio-economic, and environmental issues that challenge the Church’s pastoral work and leadership in Nigeria. He highlighted poor governance, insecurity, corruption, and other pressing concerns affecting the nation.
Embracing Nigeria’s diverse cultural landscape, Archbishop Ugorji acknowledged it as a divine blessing, enriching the Church’s mission and exemplifying God’s creation in various forms.
The Church in Nigeria is growing rapidly, with active parishes and abundant vocations. Archbishop Ugorji expressed his hope for the Church’s continued qualitative and quantitative growth, aiming to be a transformative force in Nigerian society.
Join us in prayer for the Church in Nigeria as we embrace a new chapter in our journey towards spiritual and societal transformation.
