Pope Francis honors Governor Ikpeazu

The Head of Catholic Church, Pope Francis, has honored the Governor of Abia State, Dr Okezie Ikpeazu with a special gift for his support to the Catholic Church in the state.

The papal gift was presented to Governor Ikpeazu by Rev. Father Peter Nwosu of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Aba who led a delegation of Catholic Directors of Communication in Nigeria, on a courtesy visit to the Governor at Government House, Umuahia.

According to Father Nwosu, the gift from Pope was in appreciation of Governor Ikpeazu’s invaluable assistance to The Catholic Church in the state, especially the issuance of certificate of Occupancy (C of O) to the church in Aba for the land where a school will be built in memory of the late Catholic Bishop of Aba Diocese, Rev. Fr V.V Ezeonyia.

Father Nwosu said that the church during its visit to the Vatican intimated the Pope with all that Governor Ikpeazu has done for them and the Pope in appreciation gave the gift to the Governor.

He solicited Governor Ikpeazu’s support towards the completion of the project and pledged the support of the church to him.

In his remarks, Spokesman of the Directors of communication in Catholic Church Nationwide, Rev. Father George Nwachukwu, said their visit was to identify with Governor Ikpeazu as part of activities marking the annual meeting of the Directors slated for Ahiara, Mbaise in IMO State.

Governor Ikpeazu who was elated at the Papal gift expressed appreciation to the Pope and the church and informed that God remains the source of his strength and anchor, noting that he is a product of grace hinged on the prayers of churches in Abia State, especially the priests.

Governor Ikpeazu promised to sustain the existing relationship between the government and the Catholic Church.