By PJ Usanga
The Association of Papal Knights and Medalists in Nigeria (APKMN) expressed deep concern over Nigeria’s current state of sorrow, pain and socioeconomic hardship. In a communique issued at the end of their 16th annual conference held in Lagos from November 14 to 17, 2024, the Papal honorees highlighted the nation’s challenges, including unemployment, inflation, insecurity, and moral decline.
“We share in the sorrow, pain, and hardship of Nigerians, who continue to suffer marginalization, exploitation, and economic deprivation,” the document read. They attributed these challenges to bad governance, secularization, and globalization, which have led to the desacralization of innate values and polarization.
The conference, which was held with the theme: “Living an Authentic Catholic Life: Challenges and Opportunities in Nigeria,” resolved to promote Catholic values and social justice. The church knights called for a return to the basics of the faith, upholding Catholic heritage, and promoting new evangelization. They also emphasized the need to renew commitment to Catholic Social Teachings and safeguard the lives of children, teenagers, and youths.
While reaffirming their support to the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) in their positions on sensitive social issues, the Knights condemned same-sex unions, the Osu caste system, and liturgical aberrations in the church.
Furthermore, the Papal Knights and Medalists pledged to collaborate with the Church to build genuine friendship, communion, and fellowship, and to promote human dignity and freedom. They urged Nigerians to stand united, uphold the rule of law, and work for the common good.
In the communique signed by the APKMN National President, Hon. Commander Steve Adehi (KCSS, SAN) and National Secretary, Hon. Rosemary Azimi (PM), they appreciated the Catholic Archbishop of Lagos, Most Rev. Alfred Adewale Martins, the Secretary of the Dicastery on Evangelization, Vatican, Archbishop Fortunatus Nwachukwu, and other dignitaries for their presence and contributions. They prayed for God’s guidance and protection for Nigeria, invoking the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of Hope.
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