Uzodimma Reaffirms Government-Church Partnership As Bishop Amatu Marks 25 Years
Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has reaffirmed the importance of collaboration between government and the Church, describing it as vital for sustainable development, as the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Okigwe, Most Rev. Dr. Solomon Amanchukwu Amatu, marked 25 years of episcopal service.
Speaking on Tuesday at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Okigwe, Uzodimma praised Bishop Amatu as “a man of vision, courage and compassion,” noting that his leadership has transformed the relatively young diocese since its creation in 2006.
“He inherited a young diocese but has built, and built, and is still building,” the governor said, citing growth in both the priesthood and the laity.
Uzodimma emphasised that synergy between government and religious institutions remains essential for societal progress, describing it as “the baptismal name for development.” He added that peace, faith, and collective responsibility are key drivers of growth.
Reaffirming his Catholic faith, the governor pledged continued partnership with the Church in promoting welfare and development across the state.
He also called on members of the Catholic Diocese of Okigwe and other faithful to support the completion of the cathedral project, stressing the importance of prioritising God’s work.
“You can’t live in a completed and marble house and leave God’s sanctuary uncompleted,” he said, while commending Bishop Amatu’s perseverance in overseeing the ongoing construction.
The governor further expressed optimism that the cathedral would eventually be inaugurated by Pope Leo XIV, in line with the bishop’s vision.
In his homily, the Bishop of Ekwulobia Catholic Diocese, Most Rev. Ebele Cardinal Okpalaeke, reflected on the biblical call to discipleship, urging Christians to demonstrate total commitment to their faith.
He cautioned against half-hearted service, referencing the story of Ananias and Sapphira, and criticised tendencies among clergy and laity to place personal interests above their spiritual calling.
Okpalaeke described Bishop Amatu as a model of steadfast service, noting that he has “left everything to follow Christ,” and urged the faithful to emulate such dedication.
In his remarks, Bishop Amatu expressed appreciation to Governor Uzodimma for his support for the Okigwe Diocese. He also thanked fellow clergy, dignitaries, and guests for joining in the celebration.
A goodwill message from Pope Leo XIV was read during the ceremony, while former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Maurice Iwu, highlighted his long-standing relationship with the bishop, particularly praising his humility.
The event also featured the unveiling of a commemorative book titled Footprints: Essays in Honour of the 75th Birthday of Solomon Amanchukwu Amatu.
The silver jubilee celebration drew Catholic bishops, clergy, religious and lay faithful, as well as top government officials, including the Deputy Governor of Imo State, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru; Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chike Olemgbe; lawmakers; local government chairmen; traditional rulers; and members of the Imo State Expanded Executive Council.
