The newly installed Catholic Bishop of Nnewi, Most Rev. Dr. Jonas Benson Okoye, has described the return of school to the Church by a former Governor of Anambra State, Mr Peter Obi, as the greatest legacy project in the state.
He bared his mind during his installation at Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral, while expressing gratitude to Mr Obi for his good leadership and inspiring lifestyle.
Bishop Okoye thanked Obi for his all-round support to him from priesthood to episcopacy.
He said: “I was his chaplain as a young priest, for eight years. I thank you for your inspiring lifestyle and committed sacrifices for the development of society and growth of the church. I thank you, specially, for the return of schools to the church and its attendant benefits to our State. May your strength never fail you.”
Mr Obi, in the same vein, congratulated the new Catholic Bishop of Nnewi Diocese for his steadfastness in doing good.
Addressing journalists at the Installation Ceremony, Obi said that Bishop Okoye, through his vocation, had remained committed to the service of the Lord.
He noted that as the Auxiliary Bishop of Awka, Okoye had contributed his quota to the growth of the Diocese and also worked tirelessly towards the growth of education in the Diocese, by his contributions to the development of Peter University.
“Over the years, you have deployed your extensive knowledge of Canon Law to the growth of the Church through the sanctification of the people of God. In the course of your work in His Vine Yard, you have been a teacher, my Chaplain when I was the State Governor, a pastor and a Bishop. All those who have come in contact with you appreciate your dedication and hard work.
“Your installment as the Bishop of Nnewi is in recognition of your ability. Hopefully, you will continue in your tradition of hard work thereby sustaining the good work of your predecessor, Bishop Hilary Okeke. We shall always remember you in our prayers,” Obi said.
By his installation, Bishop Jonas Benson Okoye has officially taken over the administration of Nnewi Diocese from Bishop Hilary Paul Odili Okeke, who officially resigned from the position on health grounds even before he reached the canonical age of 75.
Obi prayed God to continue to sustain the Bishop with divine wisdom and abundant health, and give him every necessary grace he needs to function in his new office.
