By Teclus Ike Ugwueze
The Catholic Bishop of Nsukka, Most Rev. Godfrey Igwebuike Onah, on Monday, December 8, 2025, presided over a solemn Mass at the diocesan cathedral to formally commission students, teachers, administrators and parents of Catholic missionary schools in the Diocese as they commenced a new academic year. The celebration coincided with the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, filling the cathedral with an atmosphere of prayer and renewed purpose.
The Mass served not only as a liturgical observance but as a spiritual mandate, commissioning students to become agents of renewal in a world overwhelmed by moral and social challenges.
“Mary Said Yes…And So Must You”
During the Introductory Rites, Bishop Onah reflected on the unique grace granted to the Blessed Virgin Mary, noting that her preservation from original sin prepared her for her divine mission.
“We thank God for our schools, the management, teachers, staff, students and their parents and guardians. As Mary said yes to God, may she inspire us also to say yes to Him,” he prayed.
The Bishop also led prayers for abducted students in Kontagora, entrusting their families to God’s comfort. He further remembered the souls of departed students, parents and guardians.
In his homily titled “Yesterday, It Was Mary — Today, It Is You,” Bishop Onah drew from St. Paul’s Letter to the Ephesians to explain the meaning of the Immaculate Conception, emphasising that Mary’s privilege was a divine preparation for her mission as Mother of Christ.
He drew a parallel across salvation history:
“God chose Adam and Eve, but they disobeyed. God chose Mary, and she listened and obeyed. Now, God has chosen you through your baptism. The question is simple: Are you listening to Him?”
Bishop Onah reminded the students of their identity as children renewed through Baptism, urging them to take advantage of the Sacrament of Penance for spiritual restoration.
While commending high-performing students in academics, sports and moral conduct, he underscored that excellence is not only measured by awards.
“The main thing is to behave differently, so that others may learn from you. Say no to corruption. Say no to malpractice. Say no to lies. God has chosen you — and through you, He wants to create a new world.”
He warned against the dangers posed by the misuse of social media, describing it as a modern channel through which the devil deceives the young. He urged students to guard their hearts and minds and encouraged teachers to remain steadfast in directing children towards truth.
Academic and Moral Excellence Recognised
Rev. Fr. Dr. Tim Emeka Asogwa, Education Secretary I, announced the Diocese’s outstanding performance at the Enugu State Catholic Quiz Competition, where Nsukka Diocese secured 12 out of 16 contested positions.
Diocesan-Level Winners included:
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Agbo Godwin — Kenosis Primary School
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Obetta Jennifer, Odo Rita, Ozioko Judith — Cordia Maria Primary School
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Ejiofor Chidiogo P. — St. Catherine’s Secondary School, Nsukka
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Nnadi Chinemeze — St. Theresa’s College, Nsukka
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Akachukwu Glory — St. Patrick’s College, Obollo Afor
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Olije Sochima — Queen of the Rosary Secondary School
State-Level Achievements:
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Victor Oluche (Holy Infant) — 1st in English
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Nnadi Chinemeze Jackson (STC) — Overall Best Student, Enugu State
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Ejiofor Chidiogo Perpetual (St. Catherine’s) — Best Essay Writer
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Olije Sochima (Queens) — 2nd in Moral & Religious Education
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Akachukwu — 1st in the State (St. Patrick’s College, Obollo Afor)
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Nweze Emmanuel — 2nd Position (State)
The Diocese also celebrated a remarkable 355 JAMB score from St. Charles College, Opi, and honoured Queen of the Rosary Secondary School for sports excellence at Godfrey Okoye University.
Fr. Asogwa expressed appreciation to the Bishop for his unwavering support for Catholic education and paid tribute to deceased administrators—Rev. Frs. John Martins Chikani, John Igwebueze, and Joseph Okwor, as well as three students killed at Ibagwa.
In his closing remarks, Bishop Onah highlighted the Diocese’s continued commitment to Catholic education, noting that it now runs 158 schools, sustaining the legacy of the 189 missionary schools that existed before the 1970 takeover by the government.
“This is our effort to create a new life in you, so that through you society can be healed, renewed and restored,” he said.
Award recipients later gathered for a group photograph as the ceremony ended with gratitude, hope and a renewed call to excellence in character and learning.
