Rev. Fr. Dr. John Ezechukwu Manafa, the Parish Priest of Saint Jerome’s Parish, Obosi, Anambra State, has attained a significant academic milestone by earning a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Business Administration from Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University. This achievement highlights his commitment to both spiritual leadership and academic excellence.
Ordained over a decade ago, Fr. Dr. Manafa has served in various capacities within the Onitsha Archdiocese. In 2014, he was appointed Parish Priest of Saint Dominic Catholic Church, Abatete, by Archbishop Valerian Okeke, where he also served as Chaplain of the Diocesan Laity. Prior to that, he was the Parish Priest of St. Gabriel’s Parish, Umunachi. Additionally, he has contributed to the security of the Catholic community as the Anambra State Chaplain for the Catholic Mobile Security Organization (C.M.S.O.).
Academic excellence runs in the Manafa family. His sister, Rev. Sr. Dr. Mary Fausta Uche Manafa, was elected Superior General of the Institute of the Sisters of the Eucharistic Heart of Jesus in 2021. She holds a PhD in Sociology of Education and has an extensive background in educational leadership.
Fr. Dr. Manafa has been recognized for his unwavering service to the Church and the wider community. In 2015, he marked the 10th anniversary of his priesthood, celebrating a decade of dedicated service. His latest academic achievement further strengthens his contributions to church administration and community development, blending theological knowledge with business expertise.
The Catholic faithful in Onitsha Archdiocese and beyond have hailed his accomplishment, seeing it as a testament to the harmony between faith and intellectual pursuit. His dedication continues to inspire many, reinforcing the value of education in service to both God and humanity.
