Bishop Ernest Obodo takes over as CAN Chairman in Enugu

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Enugu State Chapter, has elected Bishop Ernest Obodo, Auxiliary Bishop of Enugu, from the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN) bloc, as its new chairman. The election took place on Thursday, September 25, 2025, at the Jubilee Hall of Holy Ghost Cathedral Enugu, following a transparent and orderly process.

The election began with the dissolution of the outgoing executive, paving the way for representatives from CAN’s various blocs to cast their votes. Rt. Rev. Daniel Olinya was elected Vice Chairman of the Enugu State Chapter during the same process.

Rev. Amb. Emmanuel Ede, the immediate past chairman who served since 2020, expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to lead during challenging times. He congratulated the new leadership and wished them success.

A representative of the national body of CAN presented the certificate of return to Bishop Obodo. It might interest you to know that the nationally CAN is led by its President, Most Rev. Daniel Okoh.

In his acceptance speech, Bishop Obodo acknowledged the significant responsibilities of his new role and called for unity among Christians in Enugu State. He pledged to lead with authenticity and grace, prioritizing the wellbeing of the Christian community. Highlighting the transparency of the election, he noted that it serves as a model for free and fair elections in Nigeria. He noted during an interview shortly after his election that his priority as CAN Chairman is peace, unity and accountability.

The South East Zonal Chairman of CAN, Rev. Abraham Nwali, offered prayers for the success of the newly elected executive, seeking divine guidance for their tenure.

The election marks a new chapter for CAN in Enugu State, with Bishop Obodo poised to lead the organization in fostering unity and advancing the interests of Christians in the region.

The immediate past Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Enugu State Chapter, Rev. Amb. Emmanuel Ositadimma Ede, in an interview with Choice Flame Newspaper reflected on his tenure and called on the new leadership to uphold equity, fairness, and justice.

He described his major achievement as ensuring inclusiveness in the association’s electoral process, where no block, officer, youth, women, or local government was sidelined.

He commended the recent election as transparent and peaceful, free from rigging or discrimination. Rev. Ede assured the new chairman of his support and advised him to be courageous, carry everyone along in peace and love, and always remain the strength of the weak while maintaining justice.