Obi Celebrates Bigard Seminary’s Centenary, Highlights Institution’s Impact

Enugu, Nigeria –  Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate in 2023, Peter Obi, joined in the centennial celebrations of Bigard Memorial Seminary in Enugu today.

In a post on his verified X account, Obi lauded the seminary’s significant contribution to the Church and Nigerian society over the past 100 years.

Established in 1924, Bigard Seminary boasts a distinguished alumni network, having produced four cardinals: Ignatius Cardinal Ekandem (deceased), Francis Cardinal Arinze, Christian Cardinal Tumi (Cameroon), and Peter Cardinal Okpaleke.

The institution has also trained over 35 archbishops and bishops, including prominent figures such as His Grace Fortunatus Nwachukwu (Secretary of the Dicastery for Evangelisation and Chief Celebrant at today’s Mass), His Grace Valerian Maduka Okeke (Archbishop of Onitsha), and His Grace Lucius Ugorji (President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria).

Obi’s statement emphasised the seminary’s role in shaping generations of men of “learning and character,” contributing significantly to both religious and secular life.

He expressed his joy at celebrating this milestone with the “Bigard family” and wished them continued success in their ongoing efforts to build a “more productive and just nation.”

His post concluded with his signature phrase, “A New Nigeria is POssible.”

The event underscores Bigard Seminary’s enduring legacy and its prominent place in the history of the Catholic Church in Nigeria.