Benue: New Catholic Bishop of Katsina Ala diocese installed

Nigerians from all walks of life, including about 26 Catholic Bishops from across the country, were in Benue State to witness the episcopal consecration and installation of Most Rev. Isaac Dugu, as the new Bishop of Katsina-Ala diocese.
Bishop Dugu was installed on Friday, July 1, 2022, as the second Bishop of the diocese after the former, Bishop Peter Adoboh, died.
In his homily, the Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria, Most Reverend Antonio Guido Filipazzi, explained that the primary task of the Bishop is to promote unity among the people so that they may love God and follow his teachings.
“The Bishop’s mission is at the service of the unity of the Church and humanity.”
The Papal Nuncio, who urged him to carry out his duties with passion, noted that the church must remain united saying, “If the church is divided, the society cannot stand united.”
He called on the faithful to work closely with the new Bishop for the unity of the diocese.
Also speaking, Archbishop of Abuja Archdiocese, Most Revd Ignatius Kaigama, on behalf of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, CBCN, promised to stand by the new Bishop and the Diocese of Katsina-Ala urging him to bring his talents to bear on the Church.
In his acceptance speech, the Most Rev.Isaac Dugu expressed his appreciation to God and the Holy Father, Pope Francis, for finding him worthy of the appointment.
He acknowledged the sacrifices of his predecessor, late Bishop Peter Adoboh, in laying a foundation for the Diocese and pledged to sustain his legacies.
The Bishop of Gboko Diocese, Most Revd. Williams Avenya, thanked Pope Francis for the opportunity to oversee the Diocese of Katsina-Ala as Apostolic Administrator.
He also commended Governor Samuel Ortom his “wonderful accompaniment with the church” and also for providing a functional vehicle for the new Bishop.
On his part, Governor Samuel Ortom reaffirmed the readiness of his administration to sustain the relationship and partnership it has established with the Church especially in tackling the challenges militating against development in the state.
He congratulated the new Bishop and prayed that he wins more souls for Jesus and sustain peace in Katsina-Ala Diocese and in the State in general.