The Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama, has called on Catholic priests to remain devoted to their divine calling by embracing humble service, contentment, and a deep sense of purpose wherever they are posted.
Archbishop Kaigama gave the advice on Sunday during the celebration of the 25th priestly ordination anniversary of the Vice Chancellor of Godfrey Okoye University (GOUNI), Enugu, Rev. Fr. Christian Anieke. The event took place on the university premises and drew clerics, traditional rulers, and government officials from across the country.
Kaigama emphasized that priesthood is not a competition but a sacred vocation, urging priests not to compare themselves with others serving in more materially privileged parishes.
“Whether you are a priest in the prison, teaching, or serving in a remote village and don’t enjoy the Sunday offerings or material gifts like rams and goats as others do, don’t be envious,” he said. “If your vocation is in education, be committed to it. That is where God has called you to be.”
With a touch of humor, he added, “Maybe if the priest getting goats and rams has enough, he may share some with you. But do not say, ‘how I wish I were in his place.’ Do exactly what God has asked you to do.”
Reflecting on the recent papal conclave, Kaigama recalled how speculation ran wild about who the next Pope would be, yet Pope Leo XIV—a relatively unknown figure—was eventually chosen. “This shows that God’s plans are far beyond human speculation,” he noted.
The Archbishop also reminded priests that the dignity of their office is constant, regardless of their visibility or position. “A priest remains a priest, whether covered or not, whether in public or in your room. You have a spiritual authority that even the most powerful president in the world does not possess,” he said.
Kaigama praised Rev. Fr. Anieke for his leadership and transformation of GOUNI, describing him as a creative and diplomatic administrator whose work has brought significant development to the university and its affiliated institutions.
He also acknowledged the Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Most Rev. Callistus Onaga, for entrusting Anieke with the university’s leadership, calling it a wise and impactful decision.
In his remarks, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State lauded Archbishop Kaigama’s powerful homily and paid tribute to Rev. Fr. Anieke’s dedication to education and selfless service.
“Education is the foundation of human capital development and the bedrock of a progressive society,” Mbah said. “We are celebrating an educator-priest who is shaping lives and building communities.”
Governor Mbah reiterated his administration’s commitment to equipping children in Enugu State with 21st-century skills to fight poverty and ensure long-term prosperity.
Rev. Fr. Anieke expressed deep gratitude to all in attendance, especially Bishop Emeritus of Enugu Diocese, Most Rev. Anthony Gbuji, who ordained him as a priest, and Governor Mbah for his continuous support.
The ceremony was attended by numerous bishops, over 100 priests, traditional rulers, friends, and top government officials.
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