Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has congratulated the Catholic Bishop of Warri Diocese, Most Rev. Anthony Ovayero Ewherido, and the Judicial Vicar of the Diocese, Very Rev. Fr. Ogochukwu Anamali, on the celebration of their 40 years of priestly ordination.
The Governor gave the commendation during a thanksgiving Mass held at the Sacred Heart Cathedral, Warri, where he joined Catholic faithful, fellow priests, traditional rulers and other dignitaries to celebrate the two clerics for four decades of service to God and humanity.
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Oborevwori described the anniversary as a significant milestone, praising the celebrants for their sacrifices, dedication and contributions to the spiritual and social development of society.
He expressed delight at sharing in the celebration, particularly his longstanding relationship with Bishop Ewherido, whom he said he had known for several years.
He noted that the two priests had maintained a close friendship over the decades and were ordained on the same day, making the anniversary even more special.
The Governor acknowledged the demands and challenges of priestly ministry, observing that serving God and humanity required commitment, perseverance and unwavering faith.
According to him, the impact of the celebrants’ ministry could be seen in the lives they had touched, marriages they had helped restored, lives they had helped saved and the hope they had brought to individuals and families through their pastoral work.
Speaking specifically about Bishop Ewherido, Oborevwori described him as a principled and focused personality who might not speak much but was deeply committed to his responsibilities.
The Governor also acknowledged the Bishop’s contributions to the development of Warri, recalling his role in facilitating government approval for the Oleri Road project and the ongoing construction of the NPA Road.
He further disclosed that the process for the award of the NPA-to-DECO Road project was ongoing, with Julius Berger expected to undertake the construction.
In his homily titled “Faithful Ministry,” the Vicar General of the Catholic Diocese of Warri, Very Rev. Fr. Peter Igolo, described a priest as a living image of Jesus Christ, entrusted with the responsibility of shepherding and caring for God’s people.
Father Igolo said the biblical significance of the number 40 was associated with spiritual preparation, refinement and transformation, adding that the anniversary offered an opportunity to reflect on the depth of commitment required to sustain a fruitful ministry.
In their separate remarks, Bishop Ewherido and Father Anamali thanked Governor Oborevwori, the bishops, priests, traditional rulers, other government officials and other dignitaries who joined the celebration, describing their presence as a source of encouragement and joy.
