No fewer than 100 Catholic bishops, including Francis Cardinal Arinze, Peter Cardinal Okpalaeke and John Cardinal Onaiyekan were in Nnewi, Anambra state on Wednesday for the solemn dedication of Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral, Nnewi.
Presidential Candidate of Labour Party (LP), Mr Peter Obi, Governor Chukwuma Soludo, Sen Victor Umeh, several top government functionaries, captains of industries, among others were also in attendance.
Speaking during the event, Soludo described the cathedral as arguably the biggest in Nigeria, appreciating those who made it happen.
He also thanked the people of the industrial city for massively voting for him in the November 8 governorship election, assuring them of increased development in his second term.
“I think this is the first time I’m seeing many of you since after the election. It’s only appropriate to seize this opportunity to thank you for renewal our appointment.
“I want to tell you that what you saw in the first term is small to be compared to what you’ll witness in the next four years,” he added.
Bishop, Catholic Diocese of Nnewi, Most Rev. Jonas Okoye expressed gratitude to God and to as many who contributed towards the building of the church.
He particularly thanked Chief Innocent Chukwuma of the Innoson Motors who donated two vehicles to two of the bishops.
Earlier, Chairman, Cathedral Dedication Committee, Chief Ifeanyi Ekwulugo thanked dignitaries that graced the occasion, describing their presence as testament to collaborative spirit.
He prayed the church would serve as place where the weary would find rest, lost find direction and joyful gather in celebration.