Catholic Archbishop Lauds Fallen Nigerian Soldiers as “a reminder of Christ’s salvific sacrifice”

Archbishop Kaigama called for continuous prayer and support for military personnel and their families, stating, “We owe it a duty to pray for those who risked their lives to defend us and our territorial integrity.”

By praying for those who risked their lives in the line of duty, the Nigerian Archbishop said, “With this honor we give them, we are saying that Military service is not just socially useful but a good and honorable vocation, which is also very risky.”

In his homily, the Local Ordinary of Abuja since November 2019 addressed the challenges faced by military families, including the loss of loved ones and inadequate welfare provisions.

He urged the government to ensure timely benefits payments and prioritize the well-being of veterans, saying, “This will motivate others who are serving presently in the armed forces to give their all, by serving selflessly.”

Referring to Nigeria’s ongoing insecurity, Archbishop Kaigama encouraged hope and collaboration among security agencies. He drew attention to the socio-economic disparities and ethnic divisions contributing to conflicts, advocating for justice as the foundation for peace.

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“The first step to rebuilding Nigeria is justice; not economic growth, not job growth, not any growth,” he said and cautioned that lack of consequences for wrongdoing only leads to an increase in social injustices including corruption.

He said, “Since it is justice that brings peace and since peace will avoid or at least minimize conflicts, we must ensure that the peace we advocate is founded on justice and not on other weaker foundations like power, violence, wealth, suppression, rights of minorities and what have you.”

The Catholic Church leader, who started his Episcopal Ministry in April 1995 highlighted the role of the armed forces in upholding unity and territorial integrity.

Making reference to the Gospel of St. Mark, he urged service members to remain courageous and steadfast. “You should not allow political, racial, regional, and religious interests to undermine your cohesion,” he advised, and called for teamwork akin to that of ants, known for their collective efforts.

The Catholic Archbishop stressed the importance of equipping the military with modern weapons and technology to minimize casualties and enhance efficiency.

He explained, “The authorities must ensure that good and functional weapons are available, provide the resources to acquire transparently and accountably modern technology, to lessen casualties as they engage in a multidimensional fight with bandits, terrorists, criminals, kidnappers. With arms and strength of will, our armed forces men and women can decimate the enemies who don’t wish Nigeria and Nigerians well.”

Archbishop Kaigama appealed for a renewed commitment to national interests and peaceful coexistence, saying, “We need a new attitude, a new mentality that is centered on national interests.”  

“Let this year be one of renewing our resolutions to become better persons, more patriotic Nigerians, men, and women of a firm commitment to our religious values, not fanatically though; to live and work with others in harmony and peace,” he said.

Silas Mwale Isenjia is a Kenyan journalist with a great zeal and interest for Catholic Church related communication. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Linguistics, Media and Communication from Moi University in Kenya. Silas has vast experience in the Media production industry. He currently works as a Journalist for ACI Africa.