The event, held during the first annual convention and merit award ceremony at Our Lady of Fatima, Ndiabor Ishiahu Sharon, Izzi LGA, also recognized over 50 distinguished individuals for their outstanding contributions to the growth of Christendom.
Chief Eze, visibly elated by the honour, expressed gratitude to God and the Catholic Women Organization for finding him worthy of such spiritual recognition. Reflecting on his Christian journey, he recalled his early days of evangelism alongside white missionaries in the 1970s, noting that his foundation in faith and consistent service may have influenced the honour.
"I feel happy and honoured. This is a recognition of the foundational work we did as early Christians in our area," Eze stated, pledging to deepen his commitment to evangelism and community development.
He also praised Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru of Ebonyi State for his faith-friendly leadership and support to the Christian community, including the recent donation of vehicles to newly ordained priests.
Other notable personalities honoured included Chief Augustine Nwankegu, former Speaker of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly; Chief Matthew Nwobashi, Commissioner for Lands and Survey; Prof. Adaeze Nwuzor and Chief Mrs. Susan Edeze as Pratonesses of the organization; and Rev. Fr. Wilfred Nwofoke and Rev. Fr. John Nwoba, who received pastoral excellence awards.
Lawmakers and public officials such as Chief Chinyere Nwogbaga, Engr. Stanley Mbam, Dr Sabinus Nwibo and Barr. Emmanuel Nwambam were also recognised as Pillars of the Church and Ambassadors of Christ respectively, while Chief Lady Mary Nkwegu and Chief Mrs. Elizabeth Nwebonyi were celebrated as women of virtue and faith, among other awardees.
Speaking during the reception held at Chief Eze’s Abakaliki residence, Dr. Elias Nwigwe, Dean of Arts and Social Sciences, Ebonyi State College of Education and chairman of the occasion, described the honour as a testament to Eze’s impactful leadership and humanitarian service.
“Being singled out among thousands shows Chief Eze has carved a niche in service to humanity. This recognition signals greater responsibilities ahead,” Dr. Nwigwe noted.
The event was graced by dignitaries from political, religious, traditional, and academic spheres, including former Minister Chief Godwin Ogbaga (Ezeudo One), Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi (represented by his Chief of Staff, Barrister Nnaemeka Nwambam, lawmaker representing Ebonyi North West State Constituency, Barrister Nwodo Aloysius Nwodo, HRH Eze Boniface Ezeagu, various stakeholders and well-wishers who described Eze as the man of the people and prayed God to elevate him more to continue to serve humanity.
In his homily, Rev. Fr. Wilfred Nwofoke charged the congregation to uphold humility, generosity, and sacrificial living as true marks of Christian service.
He emphasized the need to use faith-based platforms to promote peace, unity, and development in Izzi land and beyond.
The convention, themed “Faithful Catholic Women on Mission for Christ”, was widely hailed as a spiritual revival and a commendable celebration of service and Christian virtue in Ebonyi State.
