Gathering of the staff and student representatives of the 84 Catholic schools within the Archdiocese

~ Fr. John Ilonah

On Friday, January 12, 2024, the Archbishop of Abuja, His Grace, Most Rev. Ignatius A. Kaigama, convoked a gathering of the staff and student representatives of the 84 Catholic schools within the Archdiocese. There was palpable joy among those in attendance numbering over 1000 for the maiden event at Our Lady Queen of Nigeria Pro-Cathedral, Garki, Abuja.

Also present at the occasion were the Chairman of the Archdiocesan Education Commission, Monsignor Kenneth Enang, the Director of Education, Fr. Benedict Ahamiojie, other priests and the Religious serving in these educational institutions. During the Holy Mass, the Archbishop explained that the essence of the annual gathering was to foster unity, friendship and synergy among our schools. He encouraged the students and pupils to pursue not only academic excellence but also the overall human development.

He urged the principals, head teachers and staff to preserve the character, spirituality and religious values that are distinctive of our Catholic schools. The Archbishop also called on the government at all levels to pay more attention to the educational sector and her involvement with faith based schools.

“It would not be a misplacement of priority to create a budget that supports the recognized faith based schools in Nigeria. The children in these schools are also Nigerians,” he said.

As key to national growth and development, access to quality education should not be given secondary considerations.