From Right, Most Reverend John Olorunfemi Onaiyekan.
Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has congratulated the Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, the Most Reverend John Olorunfemi Onaiyekan, on his elevation to the position of Cardinal by Pope Benedict XVI.
Fayemi in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Yinka Oyebode, described Onaiyekan’s elevation as a boost to Nigeria’s image in the international community.
The elevation, Governor, Fayemi added, has lifted Nigeria in the realm of international religious diplomacy and quest for understanding among the great religions of the world.
He noted that Onaiyekan’s appointment as a Cardinal is well-deserved given his dedication to duty and his diligent service in the Roman Catholic Church spanning over 40 years.
The Governor said the appointment has proved that Nigeria has men and women of integrity who can be entrusted with leadership positions locally and globally.
Fayemi urged Onaiyekan to use his new position as a Cardinal in the Catholic Mission to rededicate himself to the service of God and humanity.
He further charged the new Cardinal to use his new position to ensure unity in the Christendom and among adherents of other religions as he (Onaiyekan) used to do.
The Governor who expressed confidence in the ability of Onaiyekan to live up to the expectation of his new status said the eminent cleric has never disappointed in the positions he had held in the past.
Fayemi recalled that Onaiyekan had received plaudits in key positions held in the past as Catholic Bishop of Ilorin Diocese, Archbishop of Abuja Diocese and President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).
He credited Onaiyekan with ensuring unity among Christians and Muslims at a very critical time in the nation’s history during his tenure as CAN President.
Fayemi congratulated all Catholics, the Christian community and all Nigerians for the recognition of one of them for this great honour.
Last modified: October 25, 2012