The Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Nsukka, Most Rev. Prof. Godfrey Igwebuike Onah, celebrated Mass with Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State at the Government House Chapel on Sunday, May 1st, alongside other dignitaries including the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Edward Uchenna Ubosi, his wife, Princess Lady Akunna, the Deputy Governor-elect, Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai, and the State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Augustine Nnamani.
During the Mass, Bishop Onah, on behalf of the Catholic Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Callistus Onaga, performed the installation of the Blessed Sacrament in the chapel, expressing his gratitude to Governor Ugwuanyi for constructing the first chapel in the Government House and beseeching God to bless him for all his good deeds in office.
The bishop commended Governor Ugwuanyi’s noble footprints in office, stating that they will remain indelible. He also recalled that the bishops in Nigeria, under the auspices of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), on August 24, 2021, were at the Enugu Government House Chapel, constructed by Governor Ugwuanyi’s administration, to bless and formally open it for use. He further noted that the chaplaincy acquired a new status on the Good Shepherd Sunday with the permanent presence of the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament.
In his vote of thanks after the celebration of the Eucharist, the Government House Chaplain, Rev. Fr. Ozoude, on behalf of Governor Ugwuanyi, thanked Bishop Onah for coming to perform the sacred function in the chapel, stating that the bishop’s visit was a blessing to the governor, the people in the Government House, and the entire state. The cleric stressed Governor Ugwuanyi’s faith and commitment to the things of God, noting that the Government House Chapel stands out as the topmost and best of all the projects undertaken by the administration in Enugu State.
The chapel’s installation of the Blessed Sacrament is significant as it symbolizes the Governor’s commitment to the spiritual growth of the people of Enugu State. Governor Ugwuanyi’s dedication to the things of God and the establishment of the chapel in the Government House has been widely applauded by both Christians and non-Christians in the state. The Governor’s slogan, “Enugu State is in the hands of God,” has become a popular catchphrase in the state, reflecting his administration’s commitment to the people’s welfare and spiritual wellbeing.
Governor Ugwuanyi’s administration has prioritized infrastructural development, security, and the provision of essential services to the people of Enugu State. His leadership style has been described as people-oriented, inclusive, and progressive, with a strong focus on the empowerment of the youth and women. The Governor has also demonstrated a commitment to interfaith harmony and has consistently called on religious leaders in the state to promote peace and understanding among their followers.
The installation of the Blessed Sacrament in the Government House Chapel is a significant milestone in the spiritual life of Enugu State. It underscores the importance of faith and spirituality in governance and highlights Governor Ugwuanyi’s commitment to the welfare of the people of the state. It is a testament to the Governor’s leadership and his vision for a more prosperous and peaceful Enugu State.
Dignitaries who attended the Mass include the Senator-elect for Enugu West Senatorial District, Engr. Osita Ngwu (RG); the Deputy Minority Leader, House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tobi Okechukwu; the Member representing Enugu East/Isi-Uzo Federal Constituency, Hon. Prince Cornelius Nnaji; Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Uche Ugwu and other members of the House; former Member of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Dr. Ogbuefi Ozomgbachi; former State Chairman of the PDP, Chief Engr. Vita Abba and his wife, Engr. Dr. Obiageli Abba who is also the Special Adviser to the Governor on Project Development and Implementation (PDI).
Also present were the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Simon Uchenna Ortuanya, and other members of the State Executive Council (EXCO); former Chief of Staff, Government House, Enugu, Rt. Hon. Dr. Festus Uzor; Council Chairmen; House of Assembly Members-elect, Dr. Tony Okam; etc.