By Fr. Moses P. Sade
The Catholic Diocese of Ikot Ekpene is aglow with joy and anticipation as it prepares to host the *Second Plenary Assembly of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN)*, scheduled for 11th–19th September 2025. This historic gathering, holding at the *Diocesan Retreat and Youth Development Centre, Nto Ekpu Ikot, Nko, Obot Akara LGA, Akwa Ibom State*, marks a rare blessing for the Diocese as it becomes the meeting ground of the shepherds of the Church in Nigeria.
In a heartfelt message to the faithful, *Most Rev. Camillus Raymond Umoh, Bishop of Ikot Ekpene*, expressed profound gratitude to God and to the CBCN for granting the diocese this privilege. On several occasions, *Bishop Umoh* has publicly voiced his joy, describing the moment as both a blessing and a responsibility, as well as a challenge to be embraced with faith, sacrifice, and joy. He has consistently reassured the faithful of the diocese’s *seamless readiness* to host the Bishops during this epoch-making occasion.
“It is a rare blessing and a moment of grace for our diocese,” *Bishop Umoh* declared. “We are honoured to welcome the entire episcopate of Nigeria, together with the *Apostolic Nuncio*, to the land of Ikot Ekpene. We believe it will be a spiritual fountain of renewal for our people and a sign of hope for our nation.”
Over *90 Catholic Bishops* from across Nigeria are expected to attend, along with priests, consecrated men and women, government dignitaries, and thousands of Lay Faithful. *Archbishop Michael Crotty, the Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria*, will also be present, symbolizing the profound communion between the local Church and the Universal Church. *Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, Archbishop of Owerri and President of the CBCN*, will lead the delegation of Bishops, further highlighting the significance of the Assembly.
According to the *Central Planning Committee*, the Assembly will be marked by rich spiritual and pastoral activities. Among the major highlights are:
– *Opening Ceremony* on 14th September 2025 at the Retreat Centre, beginning at 9:00 a.m. prompt.
– *Closing Ceremony* on *18th September 2025* at *St. Anne Cathedral, Ifuho, Ikot Ekpene*, beginning at 5:00 p.m. prompt.
The Assembly, providentially coinciding with the *Jubilee Year of Hope (2025)*, bears deep spiritual significance. Coming just before the *National Jubilee Pilgrimage*, it is divinely timed to prepare the Church in Nigeria for renewed grace, unity, and mission. In this light, the Plenary is not only an ecclesiastical meeting but also a *Jubilee pilgrimage of faith* — a time of prayer, reflection, and pastoral encounter with God’s people.
*Bishop Umoh* highlighted the collaborative spirit of the diocese, noting the extraordinary zeal of priests, Religious, and Lay Faithful in embracing the task. “Our priests, Religious, and laity have embraced this responsibility with extraordinary dedication. The love and goodwill of our people remind us that with God’s grace, no obstacle is insurmountable.”
The Diocese of Ikot Ekpene, long recognized for its fidelity to Catholic tradition and its promotion of Catholic education through many schools and institutions, including hospitals, under her care, sees this moment as both a reward for past labours and a call to deeper faithfulness. Liturgical celebrations, communal devotions such as the *Rosary procession*, and pastoral exchanges during the weeklong Assembly are expected to become a source of renewal for the Church and a beacon of hope for the nation.
In conclusion, *Bishop Umoh* reflected with pastoral warmth: “This is more than an ecclesiastical meeting — it is a divine visitation in the Jubilee Year of Hope. We pray that this Assembly will strengthen the faith of our people, bring peace to our land, and inspire fresh energy for the mission of the Church in Nigeria.”
As Ikot Ekpene opens its doors to welcome the Bishops of Nigeria, the faithful await with eager hearts what promises to be a memorable, grace-filled, and transformative milestone — one that will echo far beyond the Diocese into the heart of the nation.
*To God be the glory!*