By Victor Nwegede, Abakaliki.
Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has congratulated Bishop Peter Nworie Chukwu and all the Catholic faithful of the Abakaliki Diocese following the festivity of the Golden Jubilee of their Diocese in the state.
Nwifuru in his congratulatory message made available to newsmen by his Chief Press Secretary, Dr Monday Uzor, expressed joy over the Golden Jubilee of the Diocese, which took place in less than seven months in his present office.
He said: "The event is memorable in many respects. First, it allows the Catholic faithful to take stock and re-examine our collective efforts for the spiritual growth of our beloved state.
"After 50 years of evangelism, we are happy to note that the Diocese has remained a dependable partner in the development of Ebonyi State. It is on record that the Diocese has collaborated with the government to make Ebonyi great both spiritually and physically.
"Let me use this opportunity to pay glowing tribute to Bishop Thomas McGettric of the blessed memory for his pioneering roles and the first Indigenous Bishop, Most Rev Dr Michael Nnachi Okoro for his roles in expanding the frontiers of evangelism in the State.
"To my Lord, Most Rev Dr Peter Nworie Chukwu, the Catholic Bishop of Abalaliki, history will remain kind to you for Your unflinching commitment to the progress of the Diocese, because according to the book of Hebrews 6:10, " God is not unjust, he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them."
He further restated his avowed determination to transform the educational sector in the state.
"In line with my charter of equity mantra, I am particularly elated to acknowledge the efforts of the Diocese in healthcare delivery through the establishment and effective management of hospitals across the State especially in rural communities.
"However, I want to reiterate my administration's resolve to hand over schools originally owned by the church as requested by our dear Bishop as a way of improving the standard of education."
