Report on CIDJAP Academy 10th Graduation Ceremony

The Catholic Institute for Development, Justice and Peace (CIDJAP) in affiliation with Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu, celebrated her 10th Academy Graduation Ceremony on Saturday, 4th October, 2025, marking also the 39th Anniversary of CIDJAP’s founding. The grand event, held at the CIDJAP Secretariat, 1–3 CIDJAP Street, Uwani, Enugu, was a colorful and spirit-filled occasion that reflected the institute’s long-standing tradition of excellence in faith-based education, leadership formation and community development.

The opening formalities, led by Rev. Fr. Vincent Iwuchukwu, began with a graceful procession from the CIDJAP Library to the beautifully decorated center stage of the event. The rendition of the National Anthem and the CIDJAP Academy Anthem filled the air with dignity and solemnity. Msgr. Dr. Edward Kanife led the opening prayer, calling on God’s blessings upon the graduating class, the staff and the Founding Director, Very Rev. Msgr. Prof. Obiora Ike, whose vision birthed this noble academy.

In his remarkable address, Rev. Fr. Ambrose Ofodile, the Director and Dean of the Academy, welcomed all present and reflected on the remarkable journey of CIDJAP Academy, a journey of transforming minds and shaping leaders grounded in moral integrity and social responsibility. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to Msgr. Prof. Obiora Ike for his mentorship and steadfast dedication to education that integrates faith, ethics and development. He reminded the graduates that the true test of learning is in service; service to humanity, to God and to the common good. “Go forth,” he said, “as ambassadors of light, compassion and justice in a world thirsting for truth.” His words resonated deeply with the audience and set a tone of reflection and purpose.

The Ag. Registrar of Godfrey Okoye University, Dr. Peace Chidi Ike, delivered a touching goodwill message to CIDJAP and its Founding Director, praising the institute for its collaboration with the university in advancing holistic education. She then gracefully led the graduation ceremony proper, the Dean calling the names of the successful graduates, each stepping forward with joy and pride.

Following this, Dr. Peace Chidi Ike invited the Vice Chancellor of Godfrey Okoye University, represented by Prof. Ude, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), to deliver the university’s address. In his address, Prof. Ude commended CIDJAP for being a center of transformation where academic knowledge meets moral character. He noted that the partnership between Godfrey Okoye University and CIDJAP has today produced leaders who are not just intellectually sound but spiritually awakened and ethically driven. He encouraged the graduates to uphold the values of integrity, humility and excellence; virtues that define the CIDJAP legacy.

The high point of the event came with the valedictory speech by the Founding Director, Very Rev. Msgr. Prof. Obiora Ike, whose profound words, “Who reads and writes lives,” stirred the hearts of all present. He spoke passionately about the power of education through Catholic Social Teaching, Ethics and Development in freeing the human spirit and transforming society. He reminded the graduates that every educated person carries a moral duty to build peace, fight injustice and promote human dignity wherever they go. His address drew resounding applause and left the all present in silent reflection.

A memorable moment followed when Prof. Paschal Okolie, an illustrious alumnus of the Academy from over three decades ago, shared his goodwill message. He recounted how the teachings of Catholic Social teachings and Ethics he received at CIDJAP had profoundly shaped his life and leadership during his years in government and public service. “The seed CIDJAP planted in me,” he said, “has continued to bear fruit in every decision I make and in every life I touch.”

The Best Graduating Student, Rev. Fr. Kenechukwu Onoh, delivered a goodwill message that captivated the audience. With emotion-laden words, he thanked God, Msgr. Prof. Obiora Ike, the Academy lecturers and his fellow graduands for their shared journey of perseverance, late-night studies and unyielding faith. “This certificate,” he said, “is more than paper. It is a testimony of grace, of trials turned into triumph and of brotherhood built on shared purpose. We came as seekers of knowledge and we leave as witnesses of truth.” His words earned a standing ovation in the hearts of the audience.

The ceremony concluded with the closing formalities led by Very Rev. Prof. Ikechukwu Ani, the Programme Supervisor, who gave a powerful goodwill message. He congratulated the graduates and expressed deep admiration for Msgr. Prof. Obiora Ike’s lifelong commitment to human formation and social transformation. “CIDJAP is not just an institution, it is a movement of conscience,” he said. Prof. Ani then led the gathering in closing prayers, committing the graduates and the entire CIDJAP family into God’s hands and Msgr. Prof. Obiora Ike gave the final blessing.

The grand event after the graceful close continued with a joyful group photograph session that captured the spirit of unity, achievement and gratitude that defined the day. Graduates, lecturers, dignitaries, and guests gathered around the Founding Director, Very Rev. Msgr. Prof. Obiora Ike, their faces beaming with smiles that reflected fulfillment. The camera lens framed not just pictures but a historic moment.

As the sun set over the CIDJAP Secretariat, joy filled the air. The 10th Academy Graduation was not just an academic ceremony, it was a celebration of faith, service and the transformative power of knowledge.