27/07/2025
Silver Jubilee of Bishop Obodo and Classmates Celebrated in Grand Style at Udi
The serene town of Udi came alive on Saturday 26th July 2025, in a grand celebration as the Auxiliary Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Most Rev. Ernest Anaezichukwu Obodo, and nine of his seminary classmates marked their Silver Jubilee—25 years of dedicated priestly service to the Church and humanity.
The thanksgiving Mass was held at St. Mary Pro-Cathedral, Udi, and drew an impressive crowd of worshippers, top government officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and guests from across Nigeria and abroad.
Joining Bishop Obodo in the celebration were his classmates:
Rev. Fr. Sylvester Achonam, Rev. Fr. Antholinus Aneke, Rev. Fr. Joseph Ani, Rev. Fr. Prof. Christian Anieke, Rev. Fr. Marius Anieze, Rev. Fr. Donatus Mary Chukwu, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Egwuyi, Rev. Fr. Anthony Nnaji, and Rev. Fr. Paulinus Okachi.
The Jubilee Mass was presided over by Archbishop Valerian Maduka Okeke, the Metropolitan of Onitsha Ecclesiastical Province, and concelebrated by 20 bishops and hundreds of priests from within and outside the diocese. The homily was delivered by Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama of Abuja.
In his powerful homily, Archbishop Kaigama reflected on the challenges and faithfulness required in the priestly journey:
“Twenty-five years of priesthood are not without trials and moments of loneliness. Yet, God calls us to faithfulness, not necessarily to success. You have not only preached with words, but through your love and service,” he said.
He praised Bishop Obodo’s commitment to agricultural development, describing it as a model for self-reliance and national growth: “Bishop Obodo is known for championing agriculture. I’m proud of his efforts in making agriculture a viable path to economic stability. I wish Abuja and others would emulate this,” he added.
During the vote of thanks, Bishop Obodo, speaking on behalf of his classmates, expressed heartfelt gratitude to God and all who joined them in the celebration. The bishop gave thanks to God for sustaining them through 25 years of priesthood. He thanked the Archbishops, bishops, priests and religious, government officials, traditional rulers and the faithful who gathered to celebrate with them
He specially thanked Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State for his commitment to leadership excellence.
The event attracted a host of dignitaries including:
Governor Peter Mbah, Executive Governor of Enugu State; Senator Osita Ngwu, Senator representing Enugu West; Igwe Sam Aneke, Traditional Ruler of Udi Ancient Kingdom; Hon. Hyginus Agu, Chairman of Udi LGA, and also foreign guests, notably Bishop Obodo’s Austrian friends and benefactors
Following the Mass, guests were treated to a vibrant outdoor reception filled with music, dancing, food, and joyful fellowship. The atmosphere was electric with celebration as clergy and laity mingled freely in thanksgiving.
The celebration came to a close with a spirit of unity, gratitude, and renewed commitment to service. For Bishop Obodo, his classmates, and the entire community, it was truly a day of joy and spiritual upliftment—a testament to lives lived in the service of God and His people.
