The Nigerian Catholic Diocesan Priests Association (NCDPA) has concluded its four-day Annual General Meeting in Ondo State, where delegates from all dioceses across the country gathered to renew their priestly commitment, strengthen pastoral collaboration, and chart a new direction for the welfare and formation of diocesan clergy nationwide.
Meeting under the theme “The Church as a Sacrament of Hope in a Wounded World,” the assembly combined spiritual reflection with pastoral planning. Participants prayed, discussed, and exchanged ideas on how the Church can remain a healing presence in a nation facing social and political challenges.
Delegates resolved to deepen their witness through renewed dedication to the Sacrament of Reconciliation, simplicity of life, solidarity with the poor, and prophetic advocacy for justice and peace. They also called for responsible use of digital media, care for priests’ physical and mental health, and stronger action against insecurity and exploitation in the country.
At the close of the meeting, the association elected a new national executive to guide its activities for the next three years. Very Rev. Fr. Anthony Njoku of Owerri Province emerged as President, with Rev. Fr. Mathew Ogunyase (Lagos Province) as Vice President, and Rev. Fr. Boniface Opaluwa (Abuja Province) as Secretary. Other members of the new team include Rev. Fr. Michael Ogbo, Rev. Fr. Josephat Madubuonu, Rev. Fr. Vincent Ogwe, Rev. Fr. Joseph Beba, Rev. Fr. Benedict Nkom, and Rev. Fr. Samson Ojo serving in various capacities.
In his acceptance speech, Fr. Njoku expressed gratitude to his brother priests for their confidence and pledged to serve with humility and dedication. He highlighted priorities such as improving welfare for priests, expanding medical and retirement support, strengthening collaboration with the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), and promoting youth and vocation programs.
He also paid tribute to the outgoing executive led by Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Johnbosco Obeahon Ezehi, commending their achievements in welfare, formation, and unity among priests.
The Catholic Diocese of Ondo, under Most Rev. Jude Ayodeji Arogundade, hosted the gathering with warmth and organization, culminating in a closing Mass that symbolized a renewed missionary commitment among diocesan priests. Delegates noted the prayerful atmosphere of Ondo as an inspiration for deeper reflection and fraternity.
The NCDPA announced that its next Annual General Meeting will take place in the Jos Ecclesiastical Province in 2026, a move seen as an outreach to priests in the North-Central region.
As priests departed Ondo, they carried with them a renewed spirit of fraternity and mission — determined to build a Church that is contemplative and compassionate, prophetic and pastoral, offering hope and healing to a wounded nation.
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