By Ochiagha Nnanna Okere
As His Grace, Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji (Mmesoma), celebrates the 36th anniversary of his episcopal consecration, perhaps nothing else better situates the occasion than the glowing tributes by the Executive Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, in which he described the prelate as an eminent Catholic whose life and ministry have continued to inspire the Church, the nation, and humanity.. Said Governor Uzodimma:
“Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji’s episcopal journey has been distinguished by integrity, truth, faithful service, and unwavering dedication to God and humanity. His steadfast commitment to the moral renewal of society and his consistent efforts to promote the common good through constructive collaboration between the Church and government in advancing justice, peace, and sustainable human development remain exemplary. As he marks this remarkable milestone, I pray that Almighty God will continue to bless him with sound health, abundant grace, and divine wisdom as he continues to shepherd God’s people with renewed strength and lasting impact,”
The Governor’s heartfelt tribute reflects the immense respect Archbishop Ugorji has earned through over three decades of faithful episcopal ministry, marked by exemplary leadership, humility, scholarship, and unwavering commitment to the Gospel.
The 36th anniversary of Archbishop Ugorji’s episcopal consecration is a significant milestone celebrating a lifetime devoted to God, the Catholic Church, and the service of humanity. Since his consecration on July 1, 1990, he has remained a shining example of pastoral excellence, moral integrity, and visionary leadership.
Born on January 13, 1952, in Naze, Imo State, Archbishop Ugorji was ordained a Catholic priest on April 16, 1977. Driven by a passion for theological scholarship, he earned a Doctorate in Moral Theology from the University of Münster, Germany, where he distinguished himself as an accomplished theologian. His scholarly work, particularly on the Principle of Double Effect, continues to enrich theological studies and moral teaching both within Nigeria and internationally.
On April 2, 1990, Pope John Paul II appointed him Bishop of Umuahia, making him one of Nigeria’s youngest Catholic bishops at the time. He was episcopally consecrated on July 1, 1990, by Archbishop Paul Fouad Tabet, with Bishops Anthony Gogo Nwedo and Albert Kanene Obiefuna serving as co-consecrators.
For 28 years, he shepherded the Diocese of Umuahia with remarkable dedication, earning widespread admiration for his commitment to evangelization, education, human development, and sound administration. His episcopacy transformed lives and strengthened the Church’s mission throughout the diocese.
In recognition of his outstanding leadership, Pope Francis appointed him Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Ahiara in 2018 during one of the most difficult periods in the diocese’s history. Through wisdom, patience, humility, and pastoral diplomacy, Archbishop Ugorji successfully restored stability and fostered reconciliation within the local Church.
His exceptional leadership led Pope Francis to appoint him Metropolitan Archbishop of Owerri on March 6, 2022, succeeding Archbishop Anthony John Valentine Obinna. He was formally installed on June 23, 2022, assuming the spiritual leadership of one of Nigeria’s most prominent Catholic archdioceses.
Later that year, Archbishop Ugorji was elected President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), becoming the leading voice of the Catholic Church in Nigeria. In that capacity, he has consistently spoken on issues of good governance, justice, peace, accountability, national unity, and the protection of human dignity. His courageous and balanced interventions continue to offer moral guidance to both the Church and the nation.
As Archbishop Ugorji marks 36 years in the episcopacy, his ministry stands as a testament to humility, courage, intellectual depth, and unwavering fidelity to the Gospel. His exemplary leadership has inspired generations of bishops, priests, religious, and lay faithful, while his commitment to dialogue, reconciliation, and nation-building has earned him admiration across religious and political divides.
Indeed, Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji’s 36 years of episcopal ministry represent far more than the passage of time. They embody a rich legacy of faithful service, visionary leadership, spiritual excellence, and an enduring commitment to the transformation of both the Church and Nigerian society.
As the Catholic Church, the people of Imo State, and Nigerians at large celebrate this landmark anniversary, they honour a shepherd whose life continues to illuminate the path of faith, hope, justice, compassion, and selfless service.
Happy 36th Episcopal Anniversary to His Grace, Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji (Mmesoma). May Almighty God continue to strengthen, preserve, and bless his ministry with many more years of fruitful service to God, the Church, and humanity.
Ochiagha Nnanna Okere is the Coordinator/Convener, Imo Diaspora Support for Governor Hope Uzodimma, and writes from Finland.
